Full text of "Ecclesiastical records, state of New York"

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1904

The State of New York has published tne
third and fourth volumes of tha Ecclesias-
tical Records, a work of greatest value to
historical students and to all interested in
genealogical research. Hon. Hugh Hast-

• ingB, the State historian, has given
students of the sources of our
country's history much cause for grati-
tude in the able and devoted manner In
which he has compiled and supervised the
publication of these old documents. They
are arranged in chronological order, under
the heads of the respective governors and
constitute an invaluable summary of the
history of the provincial period of the
present Empire State. -The two volumes
just issued comprehend the period from
1701 to 1750 inclusive, the first half of the
eighteenth century and the amount of his-
tory at first hand herein contained is
enormous. The development of historical
research In these days, under the stimulus
to great extent of the growth of genealogi-
cal study, makes such works as this of
the greatest usefulness; they form worthy

/porhplements of the series of New York
State publications relating to the early
wars, to the Revolutionary period, etc.,
which under Mr. Hastings's direction have
reflected great honor on the State which so
generously provides for the placing on
permanent record and within the reacli of
all the valuable archives and facts in its
posses.sion. Would that other States might
do as well, particularly some of the origin-
al thirteen. We have valuable works of
this nature from New Hampshire and
Rhode Island, as well as in our own Com-
monwealth, where the publication of the
Bradford History of Plymouth Plantation
and the series of Revolutionary Soldiers'
and Sailors' records are of greatest benefit,
but there Is room for much more and we
hope in good time to have more of our
Colonial records, papers and archives pub-
lished for general circulation.

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:vV YORK

LIBRARY

.': DATIONS.

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M^'^ -AMSTERDAM a ^/^tal/ {V/y ,n AfanA^i/fa// Infant/, A'r- //r//^ut./ .
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THE NSW YORK

PUBLIC LIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX AND
TiLDcN FOU--DATIQNS.

Ecclesiastical Records

State of New York

Published by the State under the s«pefvision of
HUGH HASTINGS,. State Historian

Volume I

ALBANY

JAMES B. LYON, STATE PRINTER

J90J

Checked

■ NEW YOi. :

::LIBRAh:

188488

,LEMOX AND

. '■",',■'■■:> AT IONS

PREFACE.

Hon. Timothy L. Woodbuff, Lieutenant-Governor of the State of
New York, Senate Chamber, Albcmy, N. Y.

Sir: Herewitii I have the honor to submit to the Legislature
the copy of two volumes of records relating to the ecclesiastical
history of the State of New York, which by legislative enactment
have been prepared under the supervision of the State Historian.
The active prosecution of this work has been conducted, however,
by the Rev. Edward T. Cor-wdn, D. D., whose long residence in Hol-
land and thorough knowledge of the Dutch language, well qualify
him for the important task he has undertaken. Since 1841, when
the State of New York dispatched John Romeyn Brodhead to
Europe to collect documents affecting the history of this State, an
impression has prevailed that Dutch correspondence of a price-
less value bearing upon our colonial times, had been careleesly
destroyed a hundred years ago. Dr. Corw^n's researches, which
were prosecuted through the generosity of the Synod of the
Dutch Reformed Church, have fortunately exploded this fallacy
by the results w'hich he produces in the two accompanying
volumes.

The general plan of the work contemplated an ecclesiastical his-
tory of New York, embracing every denomination, each secular
narrative told by a representative member of the denomination,
from the earliest Dutch times. To that end copious extracts from
colonial and documentary records have been taken and utilized,
and in order to forge missing links to the chain, quotations from
standard religious publications have been made.

Pbefacb.

The firat appropriation for this work was given by the Legis-
lature of 1899, and reads as follows:

" For translation of copied documents in the possession of
ecclesiastical archives of Amsterdam and the Hague, relating
to the colonial history of the state of New York, and for their
preparation for publication, the sum of five thousand dollars, or
as much thereof as may be necessary, said work to be done under
the general direction of the state historian."

By July 1, 1899, all the preliminaries having been made under
the advice and with the co-operation of Attorney-General Jokn C.
Davles and the State Comptroller, the late Colonel William J.
Morgan, both of whom evinced earnest interest in the undertak-
ing, the work of translating and transcribing the records began
and has been pushed with energy, consistent with accuracy, ever
since. The laborious effort necessary in putting into English,
records of this character, can only be understood by those who
have had experience in handling them. The volumes now sul>-
mitted to the Legislature represent fifty per cent, of the entire
material in hand, and cover the period from 1621 to -1700. The
matter involved embraces the period of Dutch rule, the conquest
of the Dutch by the English, the temporary reversion to Dutch
rule, the restoration of the English domination and the Leisler
rebellion. Light is thrown upon many religious propositions for

the first time.

During its progress, the work received a serious set back and
the State suffered a serious loss in the untimely death of Dr.
Corwin's assistant in translations, the Kev. Daniel Van Pelt,
D. D. Advised by his physician of the efficacy of salt-water bath-
ing, Dr. Van Pelt, who was suffering from a nervous affection, left
his home in Astoria about midnight on October 23, 1900, and
repaired to a lonely cove near Hell Gate. A few minutes later
cries from the direction of the water were heard. The next morn-
ing the neighborhood was examined and clothing was found, care-

PfiEFACE.

Ill

fully folded and arranged, upon a rock. The presumption that he
ventured beyond his depth or had fallen into a pitfall, with which
that locality abounds, and was swept away by the swiftly running
current, was justified, for several days later, the body was discov-
ered several miles distant. Dr. Yan Pelt was one of the most
accomplished scholars in the country. He was thoroughly prO:
ficient in the languages, especially in the Dutch, of which he had
made a special study.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

HUGH HASTINGS,

State Historian.

State Capitol, Albany, iST. Y., Jan. 7, 1901.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(All documents arranged under the heads of the respective Governors, and in

chronological order.)

PRELIMINARY.

1621. PAGE.

Aug. 24 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Haarlem 32

Names of delegates, including that of Rev. Jonas Michaelius,

pastor at Hem.
Note on village of Hem.
1622.

The Walloons petition to be allowed to go to New Netherland. . 36
Note on the Walloons.
1623-4.

Note on the First and Second Directors, Cornelius Jacobsen

May and William Verhulst <". . 37

1624.

Aug. 6 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Enkhuysen 38

Decisions as to what ecclesiastical bodies are to control
colonial churches.
1626.

Aug. 12 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Edam 39

Oversight of colonial churches — Rev. Jonas Michielse
(Michaelius) goes from Hem to Brazil — Notes on the
Dutch in Brazil; and the Dutch church in Brazil.

THE ADMINISTRATION OF PETER MINUIT, 1626-1632.

Note on Peter Minuit — Tablet to his memory 43

Note on Comforters of the Sick — Tablet to their memorv .... 45

1626.

ir)28.

Aug. 11 Letter of Rev. Jonas Michaelius, of New Amsterdam, to Rev.
Adrian Smoutius (and others) of the Classis of Amsterdam.

In Dutch and English 49

Incidents. — Death of his wife; character of the voyage. Tite
Church. — Consistory appointed; first celebration of the
Lord's Supper; Walloon services in French; suV)jection to
ministers in Amsterdam ; names of members of Consistory.
CT^^I. Matters. — The Nalivcs; their character; difficulties
of their conversion; their language; duty of instructing In-

vi Table of Co?\^tents.

1628.
Aug. 1 1 PAGE.

dian children; praj-er and sovereignty of God — Ministerial
support : house-keeping ; farming ; food ; need of land
(glebe) ; need of farmers — Condition of the Colony: wars;
industries; climate; harvests — Michaelius' relation to the

Church of Holland; correspondence; conclusion 49-73

Note on Rev. Jonas Michaelius — Tablet to his memory —
Note on Johannes Michaelius, his cousin — Notes on Rev.
Adrian Smoutius and the others mentioned in the letter,
being the Committee on Colonial Churches.

Aug. 15 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Amsterdam 74

Art. 20. English Synod in Holland.

Art. 51. Regulations for the colonial churches.

1629.
June 7 Patroons in New Netherland, their duties in reference to
ministers and schoolmasters as adopted by the West India

Company 75

Aug. 20 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Hoorn 75

Art. 13. Contracts with ministers going to the colonies.
Art. 17. English Synod in Holland.
■ Art. 19. Care of persecuting churches.
-,^ Art. 35. Church regulations for the colonies.

1630.

Patroons in New Netherland. Their duties in reference to min-
isters, schoolmasters and bond-servants, as adopted by the

States-General 78

Oct. 1 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Enckhuysen 79

Preachers for the colonies.
English Synod in Holland.
Church-Order in the colonies.
Comforters of the sick for the colonies.
Comforters of the sick must be regularly called.
Order of Extracts.

1631.

Aug. 19 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Edam 81

Art. 8. English Synod in Holland.
Art. 13. Church-Order in the colonies.

1632.

June 7 Classis of Amsterdam °1

Everardus Bogardus seeks final examination.
14 Examination and ordination of Rev. Everardus Bogardus* 81

Art.

11.

Art.

17,

Art.

26.

Art.

28.

Art.

36,

*As most of the Extracts are from the Acts of the Classis, or from the
Acts of their Deputies on Foreign Aflfairs, including the Correspondence, it
will not be necessary in this Table of Contents to specify hereafter " Classis "
or " Deputies " or " Correspondence," as this will appear in the Extracts
themselves.

Table of Contents. vii

1632. PAGE.

Aug. 17 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Alckmaer 82

Art. 10. English Synod in Holland.

Art. 17. Extracts from Acts of other Synods, concerning

English ministers in Holland.
Art. 38. jMinisterial changes. Everardus Bogardus goes to
New Netherland.

THE ADMINISTRATION OF WOUTER VAN TWILLER, 1G33-1637.

1633.
April Note from Brodhead as to his arrival, and the arrival of

Domine Bogardus — Note from O'Callaghan on the same .... 84

Aug. 9 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Haarlem 84

Art. 10. English Synod in Holland.
Art. 33. Preachers practicing medicine.
The first church building in New Amsterdam 85

1634.

Aug. 14 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Amsterdam 86

Art. 55. Ministerial changes. Rev. John Megapolensis.

1635.

Aug. 14 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Hoorn 86

Art. 7. Printing of the newly-translated Bibl'^
Dec. 3 Rev. Johannes Theodorus Polheim requests to oe sent to the

West Indies 87

The church in Virginia (New Amsterdam) asks for another
minister.
1636.
April 7 Lubbertus Van Dincklagen complains of Dominie Bogardus ... . 87
Committee appointed to draft Articles for the colonial
churches.

April 17 Deputies on Foreign Affairs 89

May 5 Regulations drawn up by the Deputies relating to the colonial
churches of the East and West Indies, and adopted by

the Classic 89-91

I Of ministers.
II Of Comforters of the Sick.
Ill Of their Presentation to the Directors of the East and

West India Companies.
xV Of their Instructions.
VI Of Schoolmasters.

Addendum. East and West India Companies.
Record Books.

Note on volumes 39 and 37.
June 7 " Form of Call " for ministers going to the colonies adopted —
The Form itself — Other Forms adopted for Candidates,
Comforters of the Sick and schoolmasters, going to the
colonies 91-106

viii Table of Contents.

1636. PAGE.

June 7 1. The Form of Call for Candidates, with Instructions.

2. The Form of Call for Comforters of the Sick, with Instruc-

tions.

3. Instructions and Credentials for schoolmasters.

4. Form of Credential and Instructions for a minister with

an Ambassador or Resident.

5. Rules and Articles, with Instructions for ministers going

to Muscovy.

6. Instructions for the minister in Muscovy and Archangel.

7. Form of Appointment and Instructions for Candidates

sailing on Men of War.

8. Form of Instruction for ministers on Men of War.

9. Instructions for the minister going to Smyrna.

Aug. 4 West Indies. Inquiry about a certain paper held by Hon.

Councillor Carpentier 108, 109

West Indies. Paper of Hachtoo ( or Ibachtoo ) , sent to Di-
rectors of West India Company.
Plan for the government of the West India churches — to be
devised.

Sept. 9 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Enckhuysen 109

Art. 34. Preacher for the West Indies.
Art. 35. Ministerial Changes — Rev. Johannes Polhemus.
(Fall?) Plan of govermnent for West India churches (Brazil) re-
ported 110

1637.
April 6 East and West Indies — Can Comforters of the Sick perform

marriages and baptize? 110

Committee on Indian ( colonial ) affairs.

Aug. 10 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Edam Ill

Ministers sent to Brazil.
Sept. 7 Rev. Jonas Michaelius is asked to return to New Netherland. . Ill
Oct. 5 Rev. Jonas Michaelius — Indians, East and West ■ — Plan to

be devised to reach them Ill

Nov. 2 Affairs in the West Indies 112

16 Rev. -Jonas Michaelius to be further urged for New Netherland. 112

ADMINISTRATION OF WILLIAM KIEFT. March 1638-1647.

1638.

April 10 West Indies — Brazil — Rev. Jonas Michaelius 114

26 The States-General urge the colonization of New Netherland

— Clergymen — Brazil 114

June 7 Rev. Jonas Michaelius again recommended for New Nether-
land 116

July 5 Rev. .Jonas Michaelius; last reference to him 116

Notes on Rev. .Johannes Michielsen in England, and on the
Dutch in England.

Table of Contents.

1638.

PAGE.
July 8 The New Netherland Council resolve to retain Domine Bo-

gardus 118

22 A mortgage given to Bogardus 118

Aug. 2 The Classis of Amsterdam adopt a seal 118

1633-1638.

A church and parsonage included in a list of buildings erected. 119
1638.

Aug. 16 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Alckmaer 119, 120

Art. 21. English ceremony in Holland.

Art. 28. Synod of Utrecht awaits reports of the colonial

churches.
Art. 29. Ministerial changes — Rev. John Megapolensis.
Art. 30. The new translation of the Bible.
Art. 33. Status of uneducated ministers in the Indies on
returning to Holland.
Aug. 30-Sept 2 Articles in reference to Religion in the " Proposed Ar-
ticles for Colonization and Trade in New Nether-
land" 120, 121

1639.
June 6 Cornelius Pietersen offers to go to Virginia (New Nether-
land ) ; accepted 121

July 18 Adam Roalandsen, schoolmaster, goes to New Netherland 122

18 Pieter Vanderlinde to West Indies 122

29 Classis of Brazil 122

29 Difficulties in England and Scotland 122

Letter to be written to Archbishop of Canterbury.

Baptismal Register of Church of New York 123

Aug. 1 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Haarlem 123-126

Art. 29. Status of uneducated ministers on returning to

Holland.
Art. 33. Extracts from Acts of the other Synods respecting

the care of the colonial churches.
Art. 46. Further treatment of the same.
Art. 47. Question as to the right of the Classis of Amster-
dam over the colonial churches.
1640.
March 19 Lubbert Van Dincklagen asks to be relieved from his excom-
munication by Domine Bogardus — Action on Van Dinckla-

gen's salary 126

April 23 Foreign churches — Ceremonies in — Comforters of the Sick

sent to 127

May 7 Lubbertus Van Dincklagen — Everardus Herdenbergius —

James Dincklagen 129

July 19 Articles on Religion in New Charter of Patroonships 130

Aug. 21 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Amsterdam 130-13.5

Art. 9. English Ceremonies.

X Table of Contents.

1640. PAGE.

Aug. 21 Art. 30. Correspondence among the several Synods as to
whom pertains the right to govern the colonial
churches.

Oct. — Synod of North Holland — Extra Session 135

Art. 20. East and West India Church Affairs.

Sept. 4 Megapolensis 135

Oct. 15 John Cornelisz Backer 136

Dec. 3 Classis of Amsterdam will examine the Petitions of the several

Synod about East and West India Affairs 136

1641.

Feb. 26 and Mar. 25 John C. Backer examined in part 136

May 6 and June 3 John C. Backer further examined 137

June 6 Conditions under which an English Company may settle in New
Netherland — (Eev. Francis Doughty, Newtown), with ex-
tract on religion, from Patent 137

Aug. 13 Synod of North Holland at Hoorn 138, 139

Art. 29. Correspondence among the Provincial Synods about

the care of the colonial churches.
Art. 49, 2. On ministers practising medicine.

Sept. 2, 3 ; Oct. 7, 8 ; Nov 1 John C. Backer further examined 140

Nov. 19 John C. Backer informs the Classis of ministers willing to go

to the West Indies 141

19 Letter from New Netherland. read — Consistory there vindi-
cates Bogardus against Van Dincklagen 142

Dec. 2 John C. Backer finally passes his examination: to be ordained. 142

1642.

Feb. 7 House for Adam Roelantsen, schoolmaster 143

March 6 Contract between Patroon Van Rensselaer and Rev. John Mega-
polensis 143

17 Van Rensselaer seeks the approbation of the Classis, on his

contract with Megapolensis 145

18 Megapolensis accepts the call before the Deputies of Classis. . . 146
22 Copy of Call on Megapolensis 146

April 1 Spanish translation of the Belgic Confession of Faith — The
West India Company — Extracts from letters of Consistory
of New Amsterdam to be read about Van Dincklagen 148

7 Vindication of Bogardus against Van Dincklagen, by Consistory

of New Amsterdam 149

8 Megapolensis dismissed from his church and Classis 149

22 Letter from Classis to Consistory of New Amsterdam 150

24 Letters sent to East and West Indies and New Netherland 152

May 5 The case of Bogardus and Van Dincklagen 152

June 2 Johannes Megapolensis 152

3 Memorandum for Domine Johannes Megapolen?'« as he starts

for America 153

6 Agreement between Van Rensselaer and the West India Com-
pany about Megapolensis 154

Catalojme of Books sent to Rensselaerwvck 155

Table of Contents. xi

1642. ■ PAGE.

July 21 John C. Backer eager to go to the West Indies 15G

Aug. 11 Arrival of Megapolensis — O'Callaghan's remarks 1.56

First Church at Rensselaerwyck.

12 Synod of North Holland at Enckhuysen 15S

Art. 34. East and West Indies — Complaints that the Synod
of North Holland arrogates to itself the care of the colonial
churches — Remedies proposed.
Aug. 19 and Sept. 22 -John C. Backer — The Company had delayed send-
ing him — Reasons for delay — Company pre-
sent him one hundred dollars 161, 162

Oct. 16 John C. Backer ordained and sent to Curacoa — Classis of Zee-
land — West Indies — Brazil — Letters to Brazil 163

Note. The Old Church in the Fort, at New Amsterdam.

O'Callaghan's remarks — Brodhead's remarks 163

1642-4.

Note. The Jesuits in Central New York 166-169

Rescue of Fathers Jogues and Bressani.
1643.
Jan. 31 Petition of the Dutch and other Foreign Churches in England

to the House of Lords 168

May 6 List of Books in a private family in Ncav Netherland 168

June 16 Van Curler's letter to the Patroon 168

July 27 Collections to be taken for suffering churches in England.

Notes 169

31 Extracts from Coetus in Brazil, Nov. 12, 1642 170

(Rev. J. T. Polhemus a member.)

Aug. 11 et seq. SjTiod of North Holland at Edam 173-177

Art. 3. Ministers practising medicine.
Art. 27. East and West Indies.
Art. 30. Exiles from Ireland.
Art. 54. Churches of England.
Art. 57. Baptism of Comforters of the Sick.
Art. 57. Extracts from Acts of other Synods about colonial
churches; churches in England.
31 Letter from London — Distress in Ireland — Alms solicited... 177

Sept. 7 Alms for the Irish churches 178

Nov. 13, 16. Collection for England 179

1644.

April 4 Letter from Synod of London — Collection for Ireland — Lub-

bert Van Dincklagen and Rev. Everardus Bogardus ISO

IVIay 2 Letter from Synod of London — Collection for Ireland — Cata-
logue of ministers of the Classis — Dincklagen 181

June 13 Letter to the Synod of Holland ordered — The letter read —

In Latin . . . ." 183

July 17 Copy of said letter for preservation 183

Aug. et seq. Synod of North Holland at Alckmaar 183-185

Art 26. East and West Indies.

Art. 36. Letter from London to be answered.

xii Table of Contents.

1644. PAGE.

Aug. et seq. Art. 42. Baptism by Comforters of the Sick.

Art. 52. Letter in Greek from the Bishop of Ephesus.
Oct. 16 Book of Apollonius on Church Government; sent to Westmin-
ster 185

Nov. 7 Letter from Rev. Johannes Bacherus, of Curacoa, etc 186

To make request for more ministers for the West Indies 186

Magapolensis's Book on Mohawk Indians 187

On Rev. Richard Denton's removal from New England to Hemp-
stead, Long Island 187

Report of Board of Accounts on New Netherland 187

1645.
March 23 Rev. E. Bogardus refuses to receive a written admonition from

the Director 188

June 26 Extracts from Acts of Coetus of Brazil 189

July 24 Deputies request the West India Company to send seven more
ministers to Brazil — Extracts about colonial churches to be

sent to the Synod 189, 190

Aug. 8 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Haarlem 190-192

Art. 20. East and West Indies.
Oversight of colonial churches.
Progress in Brazil.

Art. 52. Church Government in England.
(Presbyterianism adopted.)
Aug. 31. Day of Thanksgiving appointed for Peace with the Indians. . 192
Sept. 21 Action of West India Company on Ministers in New Nether-
land and Brazil 193

1646.

May 28 Brazil — Minister to New Netherland 194-196

Extracts from Acts of the Classis of Brazil.
June 5 New Netherland 196

11 Council of New Netherland summons Rev. E. Bogardus to an-

swer certain charges 196-200

12 New Netherland — Brazil 201

25 John Walraven, chorister and schoolmaster for New Nether-
land 201

Ministers sought for New Netherland.

July 8 New Netherland — Brazil 203

9 Remonstrance to the Company by the Classis about neglect of

church privileges in the West Indies 203-209

28 Commission of Peter Stuyvesant 209.. 210

July ? Extracts about East and West India churches 210

28 Calls to New Netherland declined — Bogardus to be asked to

stay 210, 211

Aug. 7 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Amsterdam 211, 212

Art. 22. Plan as to East and West India Affairs.

Art. 23. Returns from West Indies: John Walraven from

New Netherland.

Table of Contents. xiii

1646. PAGE.

Sept. 21 Rev. Everardus Bogardus to deliver a certain bill of ex-
change 212-214

June 4-Oct. 18 Father Jogues — His death 214, 215

1647.
May 9 Deacons of Rensselaerwyek lend money to the Patroon 215

1646.

Extracts from a journal of New Netherland, 1641-1646, cov-
ering the last six years of the ministry of Bogardus . 216

ADMINISTRATION OF PETER STUYVESANT.

May 11, 1647-1664, Sept. 5.
1647.

July 22 Resignation and death of Rev. Everardus Bogardus 216-218

Notes by Valentine and O'Callaghan — Annetje Jans.

Aug. 12 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Hoorn 218, 219

Art. 17. East and West India Affairs.

Art. 39. West Indies — Extracts from a letter from Brazil

of June 10, 1646.
Art. 41. Rev. William Grasmeer.

Sept. 16 Points for Remonstrances (or Memorial) 219-224

I To the East India Company.
II To the West India Company.
22 Extract relating to Religion from Stuyvesant's Charter —

Church and School 224

Oct. 28 Memorial to the XIX — Henry Dries 225

Nov. 26 Letter to the East and West Indies 225

1648.

Jan. 27 Megapolensis asks his dismission from Rensselaerwyck 225

Rev. John Backerus — Megapolensis.
Feb. 1 Flushing, L. I., petitions the Director for a minister — Order

thereon 226

10 Letter from Megapolensis, read — Referred to the Deputies. . . 227

24 Conference with the widow Rentselaer 227

April 7 Rev. John Megapolensis — Letter to Megapolensis 228

7 Directors' letter to Stuy^-esant — Death of Bogardus 228, 229

8 Letter to Megapolensis in full 230, 231

June 29 T^etter from John Backerus, read 232

Aug. 11 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Enckhuysen 232

Art. 19. East and West Indies.
Aug. 15 and Sept. 2 Letter of Rev. John Backerus to the Classis of Am-
sterdam 233-237

Aug. 15-25 Letter of Rev. John Megapolensis to the Classis of Amster-
dam . . .^ 237-239

Sept. 14 Letter from Rev. John Bachorus, road — Letter from Rev. John

Megapolensis. road 239

28 Memorial to the XIX — Lettor to the Brethren of Zeeland. 240-242

xiv Table of Contents.

1648. PAGE.

Oct. 5 Classis of Amsterdam — Letter of Backerus and Megapolensis

26 Pieter Vander Linden, precentor — Matters on which to me-
morialize the XIX 242-244

Letter of Megapolensis of Aug. 15, read.
Letter of Backerus read.

Nov. 2 Directors to Peter Stuyvesant — Backerus — Megapolensis —

West India Company, godfather of children 244-245

30 Action of the XIX on ecclesiastical matters — Action of the

Deputies — Pastors to be sought for New Netherland 245

Dec. 7 Letter from Megapolensis read — The widow Bogardus — Let-
ter from Backerus read — Pastors needed in the colonies .... 246

28 Letter from Backerus, read, of Sept. 22 — Letter from Consis-

tory of New Amsterdam 247

1649.
Jan. 14 Lease from Van Eensselaer requires religious services at Cats-
kill 248

25 Pastor to be sought for New Netherland 248

March 15 Rev. Wm. Grasmeer seeks a release for Rev. Megapolensis .... 248

29 Megapolensis seeks dismission from Rensselaerswyek 249

April 13 Letters from New Netherland to be answered 249

26 Letter of Classis to Rev. John Backerus — Letter of Classis to

Rev. John Megapolensis 250-252

May 8 The Director forbids Rev. Backerus to read political writings

in the church — O'Callaghan's remark thereon 252

June 28 Gideon Schaets 253

July 6 The Council of New Amsterdam permit Rev. Backerus to re-
sign ; request Rev. John Megapolensis, on his way to Holland,
to remain, Aug. 2 — The departure of Backerus and settle-
ment of Megapolensis 253, 254

28 Remonstrance of the people of New Netherland to the States-
General — Abstract and Extracts concerning social and re-
ligious affairs, chiefly during the ministries of Bogardus and
Backerus, 1643-9 — Discovery and location of the country —
Religious ideas of the Indians — Settlements by the Dutch ;
and English encroachments — "Vast capabilities of New
Netherland — Causes of its decline — Bad government; High
prices — Arbitrary power — Account of building the church
in the Fort by Kieft in 1642 — Church revenues — School —
Alms money — Asylum — Kieft did nothing for the people
except the building of the church — Bad treatment of Negro
slaves — Stuyvesant thus far had done little except repairing
the church — Kieft's arbitrary dealings with Rev. Francis
Doughty — Stiiyvesant's administration — Van Dincklagen,
the Vice-Governor, afraid to speak — Stu\wesant keeps able
men out of the Council — His nirs — Stu>"\-esant's treatment
of Doughtv — Conditions for success on New Netherland, 254-260

Table of Contents. xv

1649. PAGE.

Aug. 9 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Edam.

Art. 15. Plan for East and West India Affairs.

Art. 28. East and West India Affairs.

Art. 30. Rev. John Backerus.

Art. 31. Rev. Johannes Megapolensis.

Art. 32. Extract from Synod of Utrecht.

Art. 36. Ecclesiastical changes 260, 261

Aug. Letter from Peter Stuyvesant, as elder to the Classis —

Revs. Backerus and Megapolensis — Schoolmasters .... 261-263

Oct. 25 Letter read from Rev. John Megapolensis 261

Nov. 1 Rev. John Backerus in Holland 263

9. Brazil 264

Dec. 27 Letters from Megapolensis, read 264

1650.

Jan. 10 Letter of Classis to Rev. John Megapolensis 264

27 Digest of Remonstrance of July 28, 1649, of Excesses and
Neglect which New Netherland has experienced — Of the
Church — Extracts from Report, and Replies, especially re-
lating to the Church 266-268

31 Answer of West India Company 267

Wm. Vestens, recommended as schoolmaster, etc — Rev. John

Megapolensis — Rensselaerswyck 269

Feb. 16 The Directors to Stuyvesant — Rev. John Megapolensis —

Schoolmaster — Rev. John Backerus — The Remonstrance . . 269
March 4 Information for settlers in New Netherland — A clergyman,
etc., needed — Report of Committee of States-General on New
Netherland — Three clergymen must be sent to New Nether-
land — Remark of the Company thereon 270

7 Classis of Amsterdam 270

Rev. Caspar Carpentier 270

Rev. Megapolensis — Wm. Vestensz — Rensselaerswyck 271

April 4 Rev. John Backerus — Rev. Wm. Grasmeer 271

Letter of Classis to Consistory at Manhattan about Rev.

Grasmeer 272, 273

11 Further action of the Deputies on the Grasmeer case. . . . 273, 274

16 Action of Classis of Alckmaar on Rev. Wm. Grasmeer 274

His answer.

19 Rev. Caspar de Carpentier, and note 275

20 Directors to Stuyvesant — Result of the Remonstrance — Rev.

Megapolensis — His Tract on Confession 275

May 24 Freedoms and Exemptions granted by the Company; as to

religion 276

Aug. 4 Court at Rensselaerswyck on Rev. William Grasmeer.... 276, 277

6 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Alckmaer 277, 278

Art. 1. Rev. John Backerus.
Art. 18. Plan for East and West Indies.
Art. 30. East and West Indies — Ministerial changes —
Megapolensis — Vestersse.

xvi Table of Coxtents.

1650. PAGE.

July 4 and Aug. 29 Stuyvesant's Eefusal to reform the Government —
Extract from Journal of the select men concerning Stuy-
vesant's action in reference to their pew in the Church 27S

Aug. 8 Request of Rev. John Backerus 270

Sept. 9 Andries Jansy appointed schoolmaster at Fort Orange 279

12 Letter of John Walraven, schoolmaster, from New Amsterdam

— Rev. Backerus 280

Nov. 28 Form of Acceptance and Instruction for Comforters of the Sick

and Readers on ships of war 281

Acts of the Classis of Alckmaer about Rev. Wm. Grasmeer .... 283
29 Extracts relating to the Church from Secretary Van Tien-
hoven's answer to Remonstrance of July 28, 1649 — Rev.
Francis Doughty — Note on Doughty 284-286

1651.

Jan. 2 Rev. William Grasmeer 286

20 Rev. William Grasmeer — Catechism of Rev. John Megapo-

lensis, -Jr 287

Feb. 20 Letter of Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. William Grasmeer .... 288
Letter of Classis of Amsterdam to the Church of Rensselaers-

wyck 289-293

Letter of Classis to the Church at Manhattan 293-295

March 21 The Directors to Stuyvesant — Book of Megapolensis on " Con-
fession, etc." .... 296

Aug. 7 Rev. William Grasmeer — Rensselaers^vyck 296

15 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Haarlem 206, 297

Art. 22. East and West India Affairs.
Art. 27. The case of Grasmeer.
Aug 28-Nov. 13 Seven items on Rev. John Backerus 297-300

1652.

Feb. 12 Church Property — Megapolensis 300

Rensselaerswyck ^^^

Rev. Wm. Grasmeer — Rev. Samuel Drisius 301, 302

14 Affidavit of Rev. Wm. Grasmeer 303

26 and March 11, 18 Rev. Samuel Drisius — New Amsterdam, 303, 304

March 18 Rev. Samuel Drisius — New Amsterdam — Rev. John Olx —

Rensselaers-wyck — Rev. John Episcopius 304, 305

April 2 Letter from William Vestens of New Amsterdam to the Classis

— Rev. John Episcopius — Rensselaerswyck 306

4 The Director to Stuwesant — New Amsterdam — Schoolmaster

— English preacher — Revs. Drisius and Grasmeer —
Note on Jan de la Montagne — O'Callaghan's remarks, 307, 308

15 Rev. John Episcopius — Rensselaerswyck — Gideon Schaats.. 308
May 6 Rev. Gideon Schaats — Rensselaerswyck 309

8 Contract with Rev. Gideon Schaats — The Patroon's instruc-
tions concerning religion 309, 310

29 The mirage seen during the negotiations between the Republics

of England and Holland 311

Table of Contents. xvii

1652. PAGE.

Aug. 12 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Amsterdam 311-313

Art. 29. ^Ministerial changes — Rev. John Backerus — Rev.

Samuel Drisius — Rev. Gideon Schaats.
Arts. 34, 39, 40. Rev. William Grasmeer.
Founding of Newtown and Flatbush 314

1G53.

Feb. 6 Prayer at beginning of Court, at New Amsterdam 314

Aug.-Oct. Father Poncet's capture and deliverance 315, 316

Oct. 6 Letter from Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to Classis of

Amsterdam — Lutheran request 317

Dec. Deduction of Director and Council regarding Remonstrance of
Dec. 11, 1653 — English elections, without reference to re-
ligion — Note on Government of New Xetherland 318

16 Commission of Rev. Samuel Drisius as diplomatic agent to

Virginia 319

1654.

Jan. 1 Request to the XIX to prevent Lutheran preaching and as-
semblies in New Netherland 320

Feb. 5-Aug. 16 Father Le Moyne discovers the Salt Springs 321

23 Request of Jan. 1, granted — -Directors willing to send a

minister to Long Island 322

26 Letter of Classis to Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius —

Lutherans 322, 323

March 2 A minister to be sought for New Netherland : . . . 324

12 The Directors to Stuyvesant — Lutherans — Long Island 324

May 11 William Vestensz 325

June 1 Salaries of ministers 325

8 Director-General to Burgomaster, to pay ministers' salaries —

Remark of O'Callaghan 325

July 15 Letter of Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to Classis of Amster-
dam — Lutherans — Indians 326, 327

17 Proclamation of the Peace between the Republics of England

and Holland 327

Aug. 24 Mrs. Catherine Polhonuis. wife of Th. J. Polhonuis 328

24 Support of the Church in New Amsterdam 328

31 Burgomasters to the Director — Minister's salaries 329

Sept. 16 Answer of Director concerning the payment of ministers. . 329, 330

Oct. 13 Petition from Midwout and Amesfoort — Domine Polhemius
teaching — Note on Church of ]Midwout and Domine
Polhemus 330

Nov. 11 Letter of the Classis to the ii:iiiistcrs in New Netherland —

William Vestensz 331

Dec. 17 A church and parsonage to be built at INIidwout 332

1655.
Jan. 4 Hermanus Blom — Action of Classis on the call of Rev. Pol-
hemus to Long Island 332

26 Schoolmaster, Wm. Vestiensz. petition to return to Holland.. 33.'>

x^iii Table of CoNTEifTS.

1655. PAGE.

Feb. 9 Domine Polhemus asks for aid for himself, and for building

a church at Midwout 333

March 2 Report of Domine Megapolensis on building a church at

Midwout 333

8 Action of the Deputies on Polhemus' call — William Vestensz, 334
18 Letter of Rev. Megapolensis to the Classis — Polhemus — Long

Island — William Vestiens — Jews — Various sects .... 334-336

22 Rev. Polhemus 336

23 Harmanus Van Hoboocken — William Vestiens 336

23 Affairs of Polhemus 337

April 5 Rev. Polhemius 337, 338

26 The Directors to Stuyvesant — Jews — Polhemus 338

June 14 William Vestiens 338

15 Petition for assistance to Midwout and Amesfoort to support

Domine Polhemus 339

Aug. 17 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Edam 339

Art. 42. Rev. Polhemus and his wife.

28 Jews to be exempt from military service 340

Sept. 26 Expulsion of Swedish Ministers from Delaware 340

Father Le Moyne at Beverwyck 340

Oct. 1 1 Voluntary subscription for defence of New Amsterdam — Sub-
scriptions of the ministers 341

1656.

Religious Condition of New Netherland 341, 342

Jan. 15 Petition of the Clergy against allowing conventicles and

preaching by unqualified persons — Rev. Moore 342

24 New Graveyard — Board of Churchmasters 343

Feb. 1 Action of Director and Council on conventicles 343, 344

18 New Church at Fort Orange 344

15 Petition from Midwout and Amesfoort to take up a collection

for the support of their minister 345

21 Herman van Hoboocken, schoolmaster 345

25 Petition from Brooklyn that the minister, Polhemus, preach

alternately there "^45, 346

28 Churchmasters 346

March 28 Petition from Midwout for assistance to pay their minister .... 346

April 4 Sale of the old wooden church in New Amsterdam 347

18 Catechism of Rev. Megapolensis 347

May 1 Action of Classis on said Catechism 347

12, 26 Letter of Classis to Rev. Consistory of New Netherland.
dated May 26 — Lutherans — Mennonites — Independents —
Jews — Catechism of Megapolensis not allowed — Polhemus

— Long Island — South River — William Vestens 348-351

June 13 Megapolensis — Polhemus — Letter of May 26, to New Nether-
land. read in Classis 351, 352

14 Action of West India Company on Stuyvesant's placard

against the Jews and Lutherans — Mrs. Polhemus 352

20 Remonstrance of Patroon Van Rensselaer against Stuyvesant's

tithes 353

1656.

June

July

Aug.

Table of Contents. xix

PAGE.

Action thereon by the Council 353

Order in favor of the Waldenses — Note 353

The Deputies will report action of Company on the Lutherans

to Classis 354

Action of Classis thereon 354

Lutheran worship in New Netherland 355

The old Church lot 355

et seq. Synod of North Holland at Alckmaer 355

Art. 32. Names of Ministers in New Netherland.
12-16 Conditions offered by the City of Amsterdam to settlers on
South River — As to schools and religion — Action of States-
General on same 356

Oct. 3 New Netherland — Action of Classis on the freedom of con-
science about to be allowed — Lutherans 357

4, 5 Resolutions of States-General and the Company, on van der Ca-

pelle's petition 357, 358

9 Repairs of the Church 358

24 Petition of the Lutherans to Governor and Council to be al-

lowed Public Worship ; with answer 358-360

Nov. 7 Lutherans in New Netherland 360

7 Petition of Hermanus Van Hoboocken for a school-room; with

answer — Note on Hoboken 360, 361

8, 11 Sentence on Hallett and Wickendam for allowing Baptist con-
venticles at Flushing 361, 362

Dec. 14 Letter from Domine Polhemus to Stuyvesant 362

19 The Directors to StuvA'esant on Jesuits among the Senecas —
Bells for churches at Rensselaerswyck, Hempstead and Mid-
wout 363

21 Stuyvesant to the Magistrates of Midwout about minister's

house — Petition of Domine Polhemus for an advance of

salary 363, 364

29 Inhabitants of Oostdorp refuse to receive a Civil Commission

on Sunday — Their mode of worship 364, 365

1657.
Jan. 1 Oostdorp (East- town) accept of Government of New Nether-
land 365

13 Petition from Midwout to be allowed to make an assessment

to pay minister's salary 365

13 Petition from Amesfoort asking for confirmation of assessment

to pay minister's salary 366, 367

16 Petition from Brooklyn against assessment for minister's

salary and appointment of Domine Polhemus 367, 368

Letter of Magistrates of Brooklyn to the Director about the
order to assess to pay minister's salary 368, 369

22 Petition from Newtown about their parsonage 369

25 Answer to foretroing 369

Feb. 7, 13 Tax in Brooklyn for Minister's salary 370

12 Rev. Jacob P. Gouwcster. offers to <ro to New Netherland 370

XX Table of Contents.

1657. PAGE.

Feb. 15 Letter of Classis to Church of New Amsterdam, (of Dee. 15,

1656 ) Lost 370

March 8, 9 Election of a Churehmaster, New Amsterdam, and their ac-
counts 370

9 Regulations adopted by City of Amsterdam respecting a min-
ister for New Amstel (Delaware) 371

19 New Colony in New Nether land — The Lutherans in New

Netherland 371, 372

April 7 Directors to Stuyvesant — Bells for churches — Lutherans... 372
9 Oath of Burghers 373

10 Eev. Everardus Welius — Lutherans and Sects in New Nether-

land 373-374

11 Petition of Jews denied 375

13 Vice-Director Aldrich to the Commissioners of Colony of New

Amstel 375

23 Rev. Mr. Welius — Lutherans 376

May 7 Rev. Mr. Welius 376

Rev. Hermanns Blom declines to act as chaplain for the Dutch

Navy 376

Lutherans and sects in New Netherland and the Colony — Rev.

Gutwasser 377

Letter of Classis to the Consistory of New Amsterdam — South
River — Evart Pietersen — Rev. Mr. Welius — The sects —

Lutherans — Gutwasser 378-381

Vice-Director Aldrichs to the Burgomasters of Amsterdam, 381, 382
25 Vice-Director Aldrichs to the Commissioners of the Colony on

the Delaware 382

June 5 Lutherans and New Netherland 382

27 Rev. Gideon Schaats to Rev. Domine Laurentius, on state of the

Church, especially at Fort Orange 382-386

July 6 Petition of Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to the authorities

of New Amsterdam against tolerating the Lutherans. . . . 386-388

14 Report of authorities on said Petition 388-390

17 Gov. StuyA'esant to Magistrates of Hempstead, L. I., and an-
swer July, 25 391

29 Gov. Stuyvesant to Magistrates of Hempstead 391

31 Rev. J. T. Polhemus to Classis of Amsterdam 392

Aug. 5, 14 Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to Classis of Amsterdam —
Lutherans; Rev. Goetwater — Petition against him —
Schaats and Rensselaerswyck — South River — Fort Chris-
tina — Lutheran services on South River — Rev. Casparus
Carpentier — Dutch Villages on Long Island — Rev. Pol-
hemiis — English Villages on Long Island — Mennonites —
Independents — Presbyterians — Rev. Denton — Oostdorp —
Kingston — Schools — Indian converts — P. S. Quakers . . 393-400
10 Everet Pietersen. schoolmaster at South River 401

12 Evert Pietersen to Domine Ruileus — Need of books 401-403

13 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Harlem.

Art. 2. Refrister.

Table of Contents. xxi

1657. PAGE.

Aug. 13 Art. 35. Extracts concerning the colonial churches —
Lutherans — Rev. Everadus Welius — Aert

Pietersen — John Walraven 403, 404

28 Father Simon Le Moyne — Notes 404

Sept. 3 Henry Selyns asks to be examined for licensure 405

Oct. 2 Examination and licensure of Henry Selyns 405

10 Petition of the Lutherans to the Governor and Council against

the banishment of Rev. Gutwasser — Answer 405-407

15 Petition of Rev. J. E. Gutwasser, asking why he is to be ban-
ished — Answer 407-409

22, 25 Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to the Classis of Amsterdam —
Lutherans — Quakers — Sectaries — Need of English minis-
ters — Rev. Doughty — Rev. Moore — Rev. Denton.... 409-412
1658.
Jan. 1 and 3 Remonstrance of the inhabitants of Flushing against

anti-Quaker laws 412^14

21 Proclamation of a Day of Prayer for March 13 414-415

28 Sentence on Tobias Feaks, schout of Flushing, for protecting

Quakers 415

29 Petition of Magistrates of Midwout as to the disposition of i

certain church-lands — Answer — Petition of Domine Pol-
henius concerning his salary 415-41T

Feb. 11 Letter from Domine Schaats read by the Deputies 417

26 Election of Churchmaster and Orphanmaster 417

March 5 Jacob Van Corlaer not allowed to teach school 418

19 Jacobus Van Corlaer forbidden to teach school in New Amster-

dam 419

26 Van Corlaer again forbidden to teach school — Minister's

salary in Brooklyn 419

30 Rev. Welius preaches on a Fast-day 419

April Form of Oath taken by Swedes on South River 420

2 Sentence on those who refused to pay minister's salary 420

Letter from New Netherland received by the Deputies 420

7 Letter from Father Simon Le Moyne. S. J., to Director Stuyve-

sant; with enclosure from Governor of Canada 421, 422

1 5 The Deputies read letters from New Netherland 422

May 6 Letters from New Netherland shown to Directors of West

India Company -^ New Amstel 422, 423

20 The Directors to Stuyvesant — Lutherans — Latin School —

Domine Schaats 423, 424

June 4 Rev. J. T. Polhemus to Classis of Amsterdam 424

7 Further orders of the Directors about the Baptismal Formula. . 425

22 Rev. John Carpentier 425

Aug. 5 Extract from the Letters from New Netherland 425

12 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Amsterdam 425-427

Art. 36. Extract of letters about churches in foreign lands:
From a letter of Aiig. 5, 1657. from New Netherland.
From a letter of Aug. 12, 16.'i6. from New Netherland.
From n letter of Oct. 22. 1657. from Manhattan.

xxii ° Table of Contents. ■ ^c

1658. PAGE.

Aug. 13 Petition of Jan Lubbert's to teach school — Granted 427

19 The Director General and Council ask the opinion of the
ministers of New Netherland, on the action of the Company,
on May 20, 1658, concerning Form of Baptism 427

23 Answer of the ministers of said request, concerning Form of

Baptism 428-431

Sept. 19 Request for a Latin school 431

24 Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to the Classis of Amsterdam —

Need of ministers for the English towns on Long Island —
Quakers — Lutherans — Dutch ministers needed — Father
Le Moyne 432-434

25 Rev. John Megapolensis to the Classis; about his son

Samuel 434-436

28 Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to the Classis; about the
Jesuits on the Mohawk — Father Jogues — Father Bres-

sani — Father Le Moyne 436-439

Oct. 7 Rev. J. T. Polhemus 439

1659.

Jan. 13 Deputies read letters from New Netherland 439, 440

Feb. 3 Letters from New Amsterdam read before the Classis 440

13 Directors to Stuyvesant — Lutherans — Polhemus 441

24 New Netherland — Form of Baptism 441

April 10 Alexander Carolus Curtius, Latin schoolmaster 442

25 Directors to Stuyvesant — Rensselaerwyck — Latin school, 442, 443
July 4 Salary of Curtius, Latin teacher 443

23 Stuvvesant to the Directors — The tithes — Rensselaerswyck —

Curtius, the Latin teacher — Polhemus 443, 444

Aug. 5 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Hoorn 444

^j^ jT**. ^j.^ 25. Extracts of letters on the state of the foreign
^ ...•"''*"•■*"'"''' churches — From a letter from New Nether-

land of Sept. 24, 1658.
11 Stuyvesant to Sergeant Laurensen at Esopus, recommending

Rev. Hermanns Blom to the people there 445

Stuyvesant to Sergeant Laurensen at Esopus, per Megapo-
lensis 446

16 Church of New Amstle 446

17 Inhabitants of Esopus petition that Rev. Blom may be their

minister 446

22 Commissioners of the Colony on the Delaware to Vice-Director

Aldriehs, as to the church there — The Swedish parson 447

Aug.-Sept. Proceedings of the XIX concerning New Netherland — Report
on the Committee of Classis to them, about sects; necessity
of English preachers; salary of Polhemus — Action of the

Company 447, 448

Sept. 10 Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to Classis of Amsterdam —

The Lutherans — Hermanns Blom 449, 450

17 Stuyvesant to the Directors — Rev. Blom 450, 451

Latin school — Rector's salarv — Medicinal seeds 451

Table of Contents. xxiii

1059. PAGE,

Sept. 30 Day of Fasting and Prayer appointed for Oct. 15 451-453

Dutch Embassy to Maryland — Rev. Doughty 453

Nov. 3 Lutheran Church in New Netherland — Hermanus Blom chosen

for New Netherland 454, 455

14 Election of a Churchmaster 455

17 Hermanus Blom to be examined 455

Rev. Everardus Welius 456

His death 456

Dec. 9 Sheriff van Schweringen to Commissioners of Colony on Dela-
ware River 457

12 Church of New Amstel to Classis of Amsterdam 456

Vice-Director Aldrichs to the Commissioners of the Colony —

Death of Welius 457

9 Skipper Huys to the Commissioners of Colony on Delaware

River 458

13 Beekman to Stuyvesant 458, 459

22 Directors to Stuyvesant — Blom — Directors to Stuyvesant ■ —

Intending to send over more liberal-minded preachers —
Blom 459-461

20 Petition of Church of Midwout for material to paint their

church 461

1660.

Jan. 5 Call of a minister to New Netherland — Selyns and Blom 462'

16 Petition of Herman van Hoboocken — Schools 463:

Feb. 4 Petition of certain Englishmen to settle at Jamaica.... 463, 464
16 Revs. Blom and Selyns examined and ordained for New Nether-
land — Certificate of ordination of Rev. Hermanus Blom —
Call of Rev. Selyns to Brooklyn 464-468

23 Appointment of a day of Fasting and Prayer 468, 460

March 1 Letter of Classis to the Consistories in New Netherland, per

Blom and Selyns 469-472

11 Ecclesiastical Testimonial to Selyns 472'

29 Directors to Stuy^^esant — Blom and Selyns 47$

April 5 Death of Rev. Welius — Another minister to be sent in his

place 47$

12 Petition of Gravesend for a minister; and answer thereto. 473, 474
16 Directors to Stuvvesant — Blom and Selyns — Curtius 474

21 Stuvvesant to the Directors — Blom — The preachers — Form

of Baptism 475

May 4 The Deputati to seek for another minister for New Netherland . 475

11 Building the Church of ^lidwout — Not paid for 475, 476

June 1 New Netherland — Form of Baptism 476

July 5 Church matters in Brooklyn — Salary of Selyns — Selyns to

preach at Stuyv^esant's bouwerie 477

6 Form of Baptism 477

Aug. 9 Salary of Curtius, Latin teacher 478

10 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Enckhuvsen 478

Art. 29. Extracts from a letter from New Amsterdam, of
Sept. 10, 1659.

xxiv Table of Contents.

1660. PAGE.

Sept. 2 Petition of Revs. Blom and Selyns for board during their

detention 479

3 Formal introduction of Domine Selyns to church of Brooklyn

by Nicasius de Sille 479, 480

7 The Consistory of Brooklyn to Domine Polhemus —

Lutherans 481, 482

22 Rev. Gideon Schaats to Classis of Amsterdam 482, 483

Sept. 29 Rev. J. T. Polhemus to the Classis of Amsterdam 484

30 Church of Midwout; costs; help given '. . 484, 485

Oct. 4 Rev. Samuel Drisius to Classis of Amsterdam — Form of Bap-
tism 485-^87

4 Rev. Henry Selyns to Classis of Amsterdam — Account of the

beginning of his labors 487-491

Note on Stuyvesanfs Bouwery.

5 Form of Baptism 492

6 Stu\"\-esant to the Directors — English villages on Long Island

without preachers — Four other villages in need of preach-
ers — Blom and Selyns 492

25 Michael Siperius ( Zyperius ) 492-494

Dec. 1 Instructions of Charles I to the English Committee on Planta-
tions — As to Religion 494

24 Directors to Stuyvesant — Ministers for the English villages on
Long Island — INIap of Amsterdam — Church Bell for Brook-
lyn 494

— Evert Pietersen 495

Parsonage at Wiltwyck ( Esopus ) 495

24 Payments to Rev. E. Welius 496

1661.

Jan. 26 Payments to Rev. E. Welius 496

Jan.-Feb. Proceedings against Quakers on Long Island 496-499

Feb. 14 Conditions offered by West India Company to dissenters in

England to settle in America 499, 500

18 Petition from Newtown to use the Minister's house for a school. 500

501

Feb.-March. Rev. Drisius sent to Hempstead to baptize children

March 4 Contract between inhabitants of Esopus and Rev. Hermanus

Blom 501

29 Petition from Church of Midwout for assistance in paying for

building church 501

April 11 Religious and charitable goods exempt from certain fees 502

Spring Church of New Amsterdam to the West India Company 502

May 2, 9 Evert Pietersen appointed Schoolmaster 503

16 Court of Justice at Wild^vyck — Religion of the Judges 503

23 Letters from New Netherland, read 504

30 Rev. Samuel Megapolensis examined — Those baptized by Men-

nonites need not be re-baptized 503-505

July 1 Michael Cornelisz — Siperus 505

Table of Contents.

XXV

1661. PAGE.

June 7 Form of Baptism in the West Indies 505

12 Alexander Carolus Curtius offers to teach Latin on certain con-
ditions 506

9 Letter of Classis to Rev. Van Beaumont of Curaeoa, concerning
Rev. Michael Siperus — Baptism of Negroes, Indians and

their children 506-508

Aug. 8 Judicial decisions, in favor of legality of Quaker marriages,

cited .....' 508-510

Nov. 8 Proposals under which English churches may be planted in

New Netherland 510-512

28 Answer of Director and Council to Proposals of Nov. 8 — Ref-
erences to ordinances on parsonages, the sabbath and arrears
of ministers' salaries 511

18 Ordinance for observance of the Sabbath 512

19 Bricks purchased for Domine Blom 512

Dec. 5 Letter of Classis to Rev. Samuel Drisius — Re-baptism not

required — Michael Siperius 513-515

15 The Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. Gideon Schaats 515, 516

1662.
Jan. 26 Proclamation of a Day of Thanksgiving, etc., for March 15,

1662 516-518

Feb. 20 Beekman to Stuy^/esant — Aegidius Luyck 518

March 11 Further answer of Director, etc., to proposals of English to

settle in New Netherland. See Nov. 8 and 28, 1661 518-520

16 Beekman to Stuyvesant — Domine Laers 520

28 Repairs of Church of New Amsterdam 521

April — West India Company sell their rights on South River to City

of Amsterdam 521

20 New Amstel, Del. — Mennonites 521

30 Rev. Laurentius Carolus petitions for remission of a fine. . 521, 522

Harmen Van Hoboocken 522

May 16 Petition in reference to minister's salary at Hempstead and

Answer 523

30 Further answer of Director, etc., to Proposals of Nov. 8, 1661 . . 523

524

June 9 Contract for conveyance of Mennonites to South River . . 524, 525

Aug. 8 Rev. J. T. Polhemus to Classis of Amsterdam 525, 526

21 Call of Rev. Samuel Megapolensis to New Netherland 526

24 Complaint against Quakers at Flushing 526, 527

Orders against them, Sept. 9.

Sept. 4 Rev. Samuel Megapolensis 527

12 Petition to be allowed to collect funds for building a church at

Araesfoort 527

25 Rev. Samuel Megapolensis. chosen fnr New Netherland. . 527, 528
Oct. 2 Rev. Nicholas Rensselaer received as a candidate 528

2 Rev. Sninuel IMegapolcnsis, examined and ordained 528

Dec. 28 BushM'vok school affairs 529

1663

Jan.

April

May

June

xxvi Table of Contents. •

PAGE.

Church affairs in Midwout , 529

Pastor for New Amstel 529, 530

Directors to Stuyvesant — Huguenots; Quakers 530

Church at Amesfoort — Tithes 531

Request of Samuel Megapolensis for increase of salary — Min-
isters acting as physicians 531

6 Beekman to Stuyvesant — Rev. Abelius Zetscoorn 532

Rev. Samuel Megapolensis to Classis of Amsterdam — Lost.. 532
24 Beekman to Stuyvesant — Rev. Abelius Zetscoorn 632

24 Order to enforce the British Navigation Act in America 632

25 Deputies read a letter from Rev. Samuel Megapolensis — Ac-

tion thereon 532, 53.^

Sept. 11 Rev. J. T. Polhemus to the Classis of Amsterdam 533

18 Condition of Church of Kingston — Indian Massacre.... 534, 535

Nov. 6 Pastor for New Amstel 536

15 Beekman to Stuyvesant — Rev. Abelius Zetscoorn 536

Nov. 21 Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at Wiltwyck — Consistory must

not interfere with intestate estates 536, 537

Dec. 3 Answer of Rev. Blom to Stuyvesant about church affairs at

Wiltwyck 538

12 Magistrates at Wiltwyck to Stuyvesant — Church Affairs —

Court of Wiltwyck to Stuyvesant — Church Affairs .... 538, 539

17 Magistrates of Bergen concerning the schoolmaster 539, 540

1664.

Waldense and Huguenots emigrate to South River, 1656-

1663 — Population, 1664 540

Jan. 16 Return of Rev. Henry Selyns from New Netherland to Hol-
land 540, 541

20 Directors to Stuyvesant — Departure of Rev. Samuel Megapo-

lensis 541

Feb. 24 Subscriptions for defence ; 541

March 12 Extract from Patent of Charles II., to Duke of York, for terri-
tory of New Netherland 541

17 Ordinance to catechize the children 642

April 7 Letter from Rev. Polhemus received — Referred to the Depu-
ties — Deputati request the Directors to send another min-
ister to Brooklyn 542, 543

8 Letter from Rev. Polhemus read by the Deputies — Rev.

Schaats — Rev. Wernerus Hadson sent to South River .... 643

21 Rev. J. T. Polhemus to Classis of Amsterdam — Lack of united

effort 643

23 Secret Instructions to Col. R. Nicolls, in reference to religion
in New England, and in New Netherland — If conquered,

See Aug. 4, 1664 544, 545

;May 4 Letter of Rev. Blom to Director Stuyvesant as to annual

Tlianksgiving at Esopus for escape from Indian massacre, 545, 54&
"May 12 Report of Deputies on affair of Schaats — Correspondence

among the American churches suggested 546, 547

31 Proclamation of a Day of Thanksgiving 547

Table of Contents, xxvii

1664. PAGE.

June 9 Eev. Henry Selyns to Classis of Amsterdam 547-550

23 Letter read by the Deputies from Rev. Polhemus 551

July 17 Petition of Rev. Selyns to Director to be released 551

Aug. 4 Stuyvesant to the Directors; his fears of English fleet. (Two

translations.) The French refugees 551-553

4 Letter read from Rev. Selyns of June 9; from Rev. Polhemus

of April 21 553

Aug. 5-14 Rev. Samuel Drisius to Classis of Amsterdam — Sorrow at
departure of Rev. Selyns for Holland — Rev. Samuel Meg-
apolensis to succeed him — French on Staten Island sup-
plied by Drisius 554, 555

Sept. 5 Remonstrance of the people against resisting the English,

while without adequate resources 655-557

8 New Netherland conquered by the English (Aug. 29, O. S. ;

Sept. 8, N. S. ) 557-560

Abticles of Capitulation. Notes: On the English Policy
in the Conquest; on the Dutch Rule for the half century
preceding.

ADMINISTRATION OF COL. RICHARD NICOLLS.

8 Sept. 1664-1668.
1664.
Sept. 15 Rev. Samuel Drisius to Classis of Amsterdam on the surren-
der 560-562

29 Rev. Henricus Selyns, in Holland, gives a verbal report to the

Classis of Amsterdam 562

Oct. 10 Articles of Agreement on the surrender of Albany 563

1 1 Salary of Evert Pietersen, schoolmaster 563

14-20 Dutch refuse to take oath of allegiance to Great Britain until

assured that it does not conflict with Articles of Surrender . . 563

564
21-26 Names of the Dutch who swore allegiance to Great Britain, 564, 565
24 West India Company to the States General on the Surrender . . 565
Oct. 24-Nov. 1 Resolutions and action of the States General on the Sur-
render 565-567

Nov. 10 Letter of Drisius, on Surrender, read in Classis 568

1665.
Feb. 10 Concessions and Agreements of Carteret and Berkeley in New

Jersey, — bo far as they relate to Religion 569, 670

16 Rev. Matthias Nevius in New York 570

28 Gov. Nicolls calls a General Meeting of Deputies of the towns
of Long Island at Hempstead, L. I. — The Duke's Laws there

adopted: — So far as they relate to Religion 570-573

May 2 (O. S.) Certificate as to the loyalty of Peter Stuyvesant, at the

Surrender — Note 573, 574

June 17 Repairs of Graveyard 574

xxviii Table of Contents.

16C5. FAQE.

Aug. 1 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Hoorn 574

Art. 15. Extract of letter of Rev. Samuel Drisius was read,

respecting the transfer of New Netherland 574

Sept. 7 Letter from Rev. Drisius, read — Desires to return to Holland

— To be asked to remain 574, 575

19 Salary of Evert Pietersen, schoolmaster 575

Oct. 19 Extracts from Stuys^esant's Report on the surrender.... 575-577
Nov. 13 The City advances money to repair Graveyard 577

1666.

Feb. 20 Salary of Evert Pietersen, schoolmaster 577

April — Aegidius Luyck testifies about Surrender 578

3, 5 Minister's support at Seatalcott 578

May 8 Rent for sehoolhouse to be paid 578

June 13 Election of Churchmasters, New York 578

Aug. 7 Land at Domine's Point 579

16 Rev. John Megapolensis to Classis of Amsterdam 679

17 C. Van Ruyven to Stuyvesant 579

Sept. 6 Rev. Henry Selyns, called to Waverveen, Holland — Rev. Aegi-
dius Luyck 580-582

Oct. 9 Percentage to Collector of Salary for minister 582

11 Rev. Henry Selyns 582, 583

13 English Governor tolerates the Lutherans 583

18 Letter from J. Megapolensis, read: defending his advice to sur-

render New Netherland 583

25 Rev. Peter Tesschenmaker , 584

30 Percentage to Collector of Salary for minister 584

Dec. 10 Megapolensis's defence rejected by the XIX 584

1666-1667.

Reply of West India Company to Stm'\-esant's answer .... 584-586
1667.

Feb. 7 Voluntary subscription for support of minister 586

May 7 Rev. Gideon Schaats to the Classis of Amsterdam 587

June 18 Arrearages for ministers salaries to be paid 588

Aug. 8 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Edam 588, 589

Art. 12. Indian Affairs — Megapolensis's defence.
Art. 53. Ministerial changes — Rev. Casparus de Carpen-
tier: Rev. Henry Selyns.

15 Aegidus Luyck 589

16 Rev. Wm. (Guilhelmus) Nieuwenhuyscn, received as candidate. 589

29 Aegidius Luyck 590

Oct. 10-20. Colonel Nicolls to Father Pierron 590

19 Election of Churchmasters, New York 591

1668.
Jan. 2 Candidates for Indian churches, approved — Rev. Wm. Nieu-
wenhuyscn 591, 592

11 Abram De la Nov, schoolmaster 593

30 Rev. Wm. Niuwenhuysen 592, 593

Table of Contents. xxix

1668. PAGE.

Aug. 27 Testimonials as to the loyalty of Domine Megapolensis at the

surrender — Rev. Hermanus Blom 593

28 Eev. Hermanus Blom back in Holland 594

Sept. 3 Rev. Hermanus Blom 594

4 Election of Orphanmasters 594

7 Rev. Samuel Megapolensis to a friend 594-597

ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNOR FRANCIS LOVELACE.

Sept. 17, 1668-1637, Aug. 9.
1668.

Sept. 24 Domines bouwerie at Esopus 597

Oct. 1 Rev. Hermanus Blom — Letter received from Rev. Drisius .... 598

Nov. 5 Rev. Hermanus Blom — Letter from Rev. Drisius, read ^^98

19 Gov. Lovelace to Rev. Mr. James 598-600

1669.

Jan. 21 Letter from Rev. Samuel Megapolensis, read 600

Feb. 16 Evert Pietersen 600

March 27 Rev. Francis Doughty 600, 601

April 17-27 Rev. John Megapolensis to Classis of Amsterdam — Arrears
of salary — State of the Church under the English — Luth-
erans 601-603

July 1 New Netherland — Case of discipline — Rev. Samuel Megapo-
lensis — Rev. Samuel Drisius 603, 604

July 3 Salaries of Megapolensis and Drisius 604

29 Rev. Samuel Drisius — Rev. Gideon Schaats 605

Aug. 5 Salary of Rev. Drisius 605

6 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Haarlem 605, 606

Art. 8. Indian Affairs.

Extracts from letter of Rev. John Megapolensis.
Art. 15. Rev. Samuel Megapolensis.
Sept. 15 Gov. Lovelace to the Magistrates of New Castle — Rev. Fabri-

tius 606, 607

1670.
Jan. 24 Church of New York to Classis of Amsterdam — Death of Rev.
John Megapolensis — Drisius feeble — Desire for return of

Selyns 607, 608

25 Election of Churchmasters, New York 609

April 13 Gov. Lovelace to Gov. Carr of New Castle — Rev. Fabritius. . . 609

22 Rent of City-school to be paid 609

June 5 Church of New York to Classis of Amsterdam — Drisius feeble

— The chorister conducts service 610

28 Gov. Lovelace guarantees a salary to any Dutch minister who
will come to America — Letter from Church of New York,

read in Classis 611

July 28 Letter from New York, read in Classis 612

XXX Table of Contents.

1670. PAGE,

Aug. 5 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Amsterdam 612, 613-

Art. 7. Indian Affairs.

Abstract of letter of Church of New York of Jan.
24, 1670.
Art. 40. Ministerial changes.

Rev. Samuel Megapolensis.
Art. 41. Loss of Synodical Acts, 1618-19 — Recovered —
Translated into Dutch.

Sept. 10 The Classis of Amsterdam to Church of New York 613, 614

Dec. 1 Letters from New York reported — Gov. Lovelace's offer 615

9 Effort to find ministers to go to New York 615

1671.

Montanus's Description of New York 615, 618

Jan. 19 Order concerning Domine Polhemus 616

March 16 Letters from New York — Rev. Wm. Nieuwenhuysen chosen

minister for New York 616, 617

28 Rev. Aegidius Luyck requested to assist Rev. Drisius 617

April 6 Rev. Rudolphus Varick '. 617, 618

May 16 Arrears of salary of ministers 618

July 10 Gov. Lovelace rebukes the minister at Southold for undue se-
verity 618, 619

11 How salary for new Dutch minister is to be raised 619

14 Ministers' salaries 619, 620

Aug. 4 et seq. Synod of North Holland at 620

Art. 12. Indian Affairs — Letter from New York of June 5,
1670 — Ministerial changes — Rev. Wm. Nieu-
wenhuysen.
Aug. 10 Order for a new assessment to pay for a parsonage in Brooklyn. 620

11 Rev. Jacob Fabritius permitted to preach his farewell 621

Dec. 5 Support of a poor Lutheran 621

21 Each church to maintain its own poor 621, 622

1672.

Jan. 5 Ministers for East Indies — Rev. Rudolphus Varick 622

16 Permit to raise moneys in Delaware for Lutheran Church in

New York 622

March 5 Domine Luyck paid for his services 623

21 Governor's order to pay Mr. Charlton, schoolmaster at Hemp-
stead 623

21 Church in the Fort to be repaired 623

April 4 Rev. Nicolas Van Rensselaer received as a candidate in Classis

of Amsterdam ■ 623, 624

June? The Church of New York to the Classis of Amsterdam — Rev.

Van Nieuwenhuysen 624

July 13 Contract for salary between Church of New York and Rev.

Nieuwenhuysen 625, 626

Sept. 13 Letter from New York without date, read — Van Nieuwen-
huysen 626

Table of Contents. xxxi

1672. PAGE.

Dec. 6 Concessions, as to Religion, made by Carteret and Berkeley,

Proprietors of East Jersey 627

1672?

Petition of Lutherans for four hundred acres of land on the

Delaware 627

1673.

Aug. 8 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Edam 628

Art. 12. Indian Affairs — Undated letter from New York
(of June, 1672?), read.
Aug. 9 Reconquest of New York by the Dutch 628

ADMINISTRATION OF GOV. ANTHONY COLVE.
Aug. 9, 1673 — Nov. 10, 1G74.

1673.

Nathan Gould's Account of the reconquest of New York by the

Dutch 628, 629

Orders to the several towns to send delegates to swear allegiance

to the Dutch 629, 630

Aug. 14 Petitions from the English towns on Long Island for freedom

of religion, etc 630

15 Dutch Magistrates in New York appointed — only of the Re-
formed Religion — The Oath exacted 630

18 Petitions from the English in New Jersey for Freedom of Re-
ligion 631, 632

24 Form of Oath for Town Magisti^tes 632

28 Ordinance for better observance of the Sabbath 632, 633

29 Forms of Oath for the Dutch and English, respectively 633

Sept. 1 Petition from Kingston for help to support their minister.... 634

1 Petition from Albany as to iheir rights under the restored

Dutch Government 634

8 The Corporation of New Orange (New York) to the States
General, respecting the means for prosperity in New Nether-
land 635, 636

26 Freedom of Religion granted to Lutherans at Albany 636

27 Instructions for Andries Draeyer, Commandant at Fort Nassau. 636

29 Others than Quakers to be elected at Shrewsbury, N. J 636

29 Instructions for Peter Aldrichs, Commander at South River. . . 637

Oct. 1 Instructions for the Magistrates of the Dutch villages on Long

Island 637

Nov. 15 Proclamation for a Day of Humiliation and Prayer 637

Dec. 9-19 The States General to Charles II 639

1674.

Jan. 15 Magistrates to be only of tbe Reformed Religion 640

17 Case of Rev. Jacob Fabritius 640

Feb. 15 Case of Rev. Jacob Fabritius 640

24 Petition against Rev. J. Fabritius 041

xxxu

Table of Contents.

1674.
March 17

April 9

May 9

June 16

July

26
1

17
23

Summer

Aug.

Sept.

Oct.

PAGE.
Valuation of Property of Inhabitants of New Orange (New

York) 641-643

Charles II. to States General 644

Rev. Rolandus Carpentier 644, 645

States General to Governor of New Netherland 645

Rev. Fabritius forbidden to baptize 645

Case between Wm. Teller and Gideon Schaats 646

Punishment for disturbing Public Worship 646

Maintenance of Minister at Jamaica 646, 647

Petition of Widow Megapolensis for arrears of husband's sal-
ary, with action thereon ; June 27 647

Arrears of salary of Rev. Megapolensis 648

Instructions to Gov. Andros: as to religion 648

Complaint against Rev. Fabritius 649

Petition of Church of New York, and confirmation of their

title to the Church in the Fort — Dutch and English 649

Duke of York recommends Rev. Nicholas Van Rensselaer to

one of the Dutch Churches 649, 650

Merchants to the Admiralty at Amsterdam 651, 652

Rev. Wm. Van Nieuwenhuysen to Classis of Amsterdam —

Death of Rev. Drisius — Treaty of Peace — Holland vs.

France — Condition of Church — Questions 652-655

Order to put the Duke's Laws of Feb. 28, 1665 in force in New

York 655, 656

Action on the Labadists sent to New York 656

Petition of the Lutherans of Williamstadt for Leave to bury

their Dead 659, 660

Election of Churchmasters 660

Rev. Roelandius Carpentier 661

Churchmasters confirmed 661

Conditions of Re-surrender 662

ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNOR EDMUND ANDROS.

1674.
Nov.

Nov.

Dec.

Oct. 31, Nov. 10, 1674-1683.

Committee to welcome Gov. Andros 663

Pass to Rev. B. Arensius, Lutheran, to go to Albany 663

Proclamation by Gov. Andros, confirming all right as existing

before 663, 664

Petition of the Lutherans about non-contributors 664

Letter from Rev. Nieuwenhuysen, read 664, 665

Inhabitants of Hempstead petition the Governor for a minister. 665
The Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. Wm. Nieuwenhuysen. . 667, 668
Anneke Jans propertj' (owned by Gov. Lovelace), confiscated

to Duke of York 668

Table of Contents. xxxiii

1675. PAGE.

March 16 Petition of Dutch Burghers of New York to Gov. Andros, as

to the form of the oath of allegiance 669, 670

16 Petition of the Dutch Burghers to the States General, as to

said oath 671, 672

May 27 Rev. Henry Selyns, Chaplain in the Dutch Army 672

June 1 Petition of Lutherans for confirmation of grant of land on the
Delaware of 1672; and for confirmation of Domines Laers

and Fabritius as their ministers 672, 673

Declaration of Magistrates of New Castle 673

Order summoning Ogle and Fabritius before the Governor. . . . 674

July 26 Warrant sent to Fabritius and Ogle 674

Aug. 1 ? Petition of Fabritius relative to changes made 675

July 29 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Haarlem 675, 676

Art. 30. Labadists.

Aug. 14 Remonstrance against the ministry of Fabritius 676

26 Letter from Rev. Selyns on the religious condition of the

Dutch army 676

Sept. 7 Rev. Gideon Schaats to Classis of Amsterdam 676, 677

15 Suspension of Rev. Fabritius 677

15 Duke of York to Gov. Andros, concerning those who refused to

take an unconditional oath 677

25 Domine Van Nieuwenhuysen summoned before the Council —

Nicholas Van Rensselaer case 678, 67'J

25-30 Defence of Rev. Van Nieuwenhuysen in reference to the claims

of Rev. Nicholas Van Rensselaer 679-681

30 Answer of Domine Van Nieuwenhuysen 681

Oct. 1 Conditions under which Van Nieuwenhuysen is willing that

Van Rensselaer should officiate in a Dutch Chiirch. . . . 681, 682

2 Promise of Van Rensselaer to conform 682

1676.

Dec. 26 Rev. Henry Selyns reports on his army life 682

March 30 Classis fail to get West India Company to pay arrearages of

salary of Megapolensis 683

April 27 The widow Megapolensis 683

Petition of inhabitants of Esopus for a minister: — Rev. Peter

Tesschenmaker 683, 684

May 20-30 Rev. Wm. Van Nieuwenhuysen to the Classis of Amsterdam

— Rev. Van Rensselaer case 684-686

26 Widow Megapolensis 686

July 20 Rev. Casparus Van Zuuren 686-687

Aug. 15 Affidavits as to Rev. John Megapolensis's loyalty 687

29 Rev. Wm. Van Nieuwenhuysen to Classis of Amsterdam . . 688, 089

Sept. 8 Arrest and release of Domine Van Rensselaer 689

15 Domine Van Rensselaer gives bail 689

16 Case of Rev. Van Rensselaer 689, 690

18 Leysler vs. Van Rensselaer 690

23 Case of Rev. Van Rensselaer 690

28 Case of Revs. Schaats and Van Rensselaer 690, 691

iii

xxxiv Table of Contents.

1677. PAGE.

Oct. 23 Case of Rev. Van Rensselaer 691

Petition from Huntington, L. I., against Quakers 691, 692

March 15 Rev. Casparus Van Zueren — Letter from Rev. Van Nieuwen-
huysen, read — Death of Rev. Polhemus — Desire for return
of Rev. Selyns — Rev. Van Zuuren 692, 693

July 17 Memorial of Bishop of London respecting churches in the Plan-
tations 693

26 Extracts from letters — Van Nieuwenhuysen 694

Aug. 10 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Hoorn 695, 696

Art. 9. Extract of Indian AflFairs. j

Abstract of letter of Van Nieuwenhuysen of July
27, 1676.
Art. 55. Ministerial changes.

Rev. Casparus Van Zuuren.
Rev. Samuel Megapolensis.
Sept. 26 Church of Kingston to Classis of Amsterdam 697

27 Petition of the three villages, Kingston, Marbletown and Hur-

ley, to Gov. Andros, to be permitted to call a preacher.. 697-699
30 Rev. Casparus Van Zuuren to Classis of Amsterdam.,.. 699-704
Oct. 4 Petition of East and North Ridings of Long Island for support

of ministers, schoolmasters, etc 705

1677-1678.

The Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. Casparus Van Zuuren. 705, 706

1678.

March 7 Call of ministers: Rev. Laurentus Gaasbeek to Esopus 706

18 Huntington and its clergyman 708

Jan.? Answer of Governor Andros to enquiries about New England

(Received April 16, 1678) 709

Jan.- Answer of Governor Andros to enquiries of Council of trade,

about New York. (Received April 9, 1678) 709

May 2 Van Zueren's letters 709

June 24 Matthias Nicols to Rev. Prudden of Jamaica 710

July 15 Friends in West Jersey resolve to hold Monthly Meetings 710

Aug. 1 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Enckhuysen 710

Art. 9. Rev. Rudolphus Varick, received under care of

Synod.
Art. 10. Ministerial changes.

Rev. Laurence Gaasbeeck.

Oct. 15 English Church Service in New York 711

30 Rev. Casparus Van Zueren to Classis of Amsterdam 711-719

1678-1680.

Rev. Charles Wooley, chaplain to Gov. Andros 720

1679.

Feb. 6 Minister's House at Albany — Rev. Schaats 720

May 4 Rev. Casparus Van Zueren to Domine Cornelius Danckerts of

Amsterdam 721, 722

26 Prevention of Quaker Meetings at Hempstead 723

July 24 Letters from Van Suren (Van Zueren) 723

Table of Contents. xxxv

1679 PAGE.

Aug. 4 et seq. Synod of North Holland at Edam 723, 724

Art. 32. Labadists — Coelman.
Art. 61. Ministerial changes.

Died, Rev. William Grasmeer.
Rev. Gerardus Beekman.
Martinus Lydius.
Theodore Brouwer.
Entered: Rev. Rudolphus Varick.
Sept. 30 Order of Gov. Andros to the Dutch ministers to examine and

ordain Rev. Peter Tesschenmaker 724-726

Oct. 9 Copy of the proceedings of the meeting which ordained Peter

Teschenmaker 726, 727

15-25 Rev. Laurentius Van Gaasbeeck to the Classis of Amster-
dam 727-729

Nov. — The four Dutch ministers, Schaats, Van Nieuwenhuysen, Van
Zueren and Van Gaasbeeck, to Classis of Amsterdam.
(About the first ordination in State of New York, that of

Peter Teschenmaker) 730-733

A Minute by an unknown party, about the ordination of Peter

Teschenmaker 733-735

Dec. 4 Letters from Rev. Van Zueren, read 735

31 Commissioners of Schenectady to certain merchants in Amster-
dam to procure them a minister 735

1680.

Jan. 24 Minister's house at Flatbush ». 736

29 Letter of the four Dutch ministers (Nov. 1679) who ordained

Teschenmaker, read 737

Domine Schaats and the Lutherans 737, 738

The Classis of Amsterdam to the Dutch ministers in America,

approving ordination of Teschenmaker 739

2 The Classis of Amsterdam to the churches of Long Island.. 740, 741
21 The Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. Caspar Van Zueren. . . 742, 743
31 Proposals to raise funds to build a new Dutch Church in New

York 743

4 Petition of Quakers against fines for celebrating marriages —

Certificate for Reverend Charles Wolley 744

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.

1. Frontispiece — New York City about 1667. page.

2. Seal of the Classis of Amsterdam, Adopted 1638 68

3. North East and South East Corners of Broad Street and Ex-

change Place at the Close of the 17th Century 164

4. Father Isaac Jogues 2i4

5. Sample of Old Manuscript oog

6. Address of Letter of Eev. Henry Selyns 540

7. Dutch House in New York City, 1679 641

8. Sample of Old Manuscript gg^

INTRODUCTION.

WORTH OF HISTORICAL DOCUMENTS — BY THE REV.
EDWARD T. CORWIN, D. D.

The worth of contemporary documents for the writing of his-
tory needs no discussion. The zeal of Americans in searching
out and accumulating such material has steadily increased since
the opening of the nineteenth century. By the aid of Historical
Societies and of Legislatures, thousands of valuable documents
have been rescued from destruction or oblivion.

Interest of the State of ]^ew York in Sijoh Documents.*

The State of 'New York has ever done and is yet doing its share
in securing and preserving original documents for the elucida-
tion of her history. Historical inquiry is always an incentive to
progress, in whatever department it is pursued. It was under
such a spirit that the New York Historical Society was founded
in 1804, " The principal design of which should be to collect and
preserve whatever may relate to the natural, civil or ecclesiastical
history of the United States, in general, and of this State," New
York, " in particular."

This Society had not pursued its objects very long, before it
was discovered that the attainment of such objects, so various,
comprehensive and important, requiring so much knowledge,
research, industry and expense, was beyond the means or ability
of individual enterprise. Hence the Legislature granted a char-

• Bee " Introduction " in Vol. i. of Col. Docb. New Torli.

6 Introduction.

ter to the said Society in 1809, to facilitate its work, having
already frequently befriended it by its munificence before.

It was this Society, in a Memorial prepared by De Witt Clinton
in 1814, which pointed out to the Legislature, the necessity and
importance of searching Archives in Europe in order to obtain
documents for an authentic history of the State. After repeated
overtures on this subject, and much preliminary work, in order
to understand what material was already on hand, the New York
Historical Society again memorialized the Legislature in 1839 on
the importance of securing official documents from Europe, and
asked that the Legislature would make an appropriation to this
end, and appoint an agent to do the work.

The Memorial was transmitted to the Legislature by Governor
Seward, with a special message recommending it.

A Select Committee was appointed by the House, (Loring D.
Chapin, Chairman), who made a report. This report spoke of the
former indifference to historical studies; of the importance of
transcripts from foreign Archives; of the design of Historical
Societies, and their great importance; of the Tvash of the New
York Historical Society to have an Agent sent to Europe; of the
fact that other States were doing this; of the high position of
New York State in the Union; of the only history of New York
yet existing — that of William Smith — which was a mere narra-
tive, and that New York had yet no reliable history; of the fact
that the relations with Holland and England had been most inti-
mate, and that there must be many documents in their Archives,
relating to New York, as well as in those of Erance; and therefore
it was suggested that four thousand dollars be appropriated, as it
woidd take at least two years to make the searches.

The Appointment of J. Romeyn Brodhead.

A Bill was passed May 2, 1839, that an Agent be appointed to
visit England, Holland and Erance to secure copies of all desirable

iNTRODIJCTIOISr. 7

documents, to be deposited in the office of the Secretary of State,
subject to the use of the l^&w York Historical Society. Four
thousand dollars were appropriated to this object.

The Act was purposely made broad and indefinite. The Agent
was to exercise his discretion in selecting any documents or papers
relating to, or in any way affecting the Colonial or other history
of the State.

In January, 1841, J. Romeyn Brodhead was selected as such
Agent. He had been already attached to the American Legation
at the Hague. He spent considerable time at Albany before start-
ing on his mission, to learn what documents were already there in
order to avoid duplications.

On March 27, 1841, he received specific instructions from Gov-
ernor Seward: — In these, reference was first made to the Act
appointing an Agent and its design, and that the " Instructions "
now given were only advisory. Reference was made to the benefit
of possessing such documents; to the fact that there must be a
great quantity of official material relating to America, in Holland,
England and France; that copies of the Instructions to the Eng-
lish Governors would be of great use, as well as those to the
French Governors of Canada; indeed, that all papers in the Euro-
pean Archives relating to ISTew JSTetherland or ISTew York should
be secured. He was first to visit Holland, then England, then
France, and to report to the Governor, and ask further advice.

Brodhead sailed on May 1, 1841. On February 1, 1845, he
made an elaborate report to the Governor, Silas Wright, who
transmitted it to the Legislature, the substance of which is as
follows :

Brodhead's Repoet.

Brodhead's report to the Governor first refers to the anti-
quarian spirit which led to the formation of the Historical
Society, and to his appointment; of his interviews vsdth Mr. Steven-
son, the American Minister in England; of the difficulties of

8 Intboductiok.

obtaining access to the documents in England; and of the nec«e-
sity of temporarily leaving England without success, and pro-
ceeding to Holland.

In Holland he was cordially received, and through Mr. Bleecker,
the American Charge d' Affaires, the King became interested, and
secured him every facility to the Archives. Reference is then
made to the riches of the Holland Archives, and their convenient
arrangement, as well as the excellence of the indexing. He refers
to the difficulties of the early chirography. He was greatly dis-
appointed, however, to find that the Records of the West India
Company had been sold in 1821, for old paper. In Holland, he
obtained about four thousand pages of transcripts.

In December, 1841, he returned to London. He now found
Mr. Everett there as Minister of the United States, who had
instructions from the President to apply to the British Govern-
ment to secure facilities for Mr. Brodhead to make searches in
the English Archives. Lord Aberdeen was Secretary of State.
Upon Mr. Everett's stating the general object of Mr. Brodhead's
mission, success finally crowned his efforts, April, 1842, yet not
without embarrassments and delays.

Mr. Brodhead in his Report here gives an account of the super-
vision of the State Paper Office from 1660 onward, and of the
Records of the Board of Trade, which relate chiefly to the Ameri-
can colonies. This "Board of Trade" was organized May 15,
1696, by William III, and was continued until 1782. Its Rec-
ords make two thousand volumes. This Board had general charge
of the Plantations, nominated the Governors for the Colonies,
and reported on their respective administrations, upon the Colonial
Acts, and examined the Instructions sent to them. Brodhead
here describes the various sets of Records. He examined over
five hundred volumes. He also describes his visits to the British
Museum and other Libraries. He obtained in England about
seventeen thousand pages of transcripts. The documents relat-
ing to New York are only full and complete after 1696.

Introdttction. 9

He then describes his going to Paris, and the facilities secured
to him through Mr. Cass, American Minister in France. The
French Government, from the first, showed every courtesy that
could be desired. He describes the French Archives in part. He
there secured six thousand pages of transcripts.

He embarked for home on July 7, 1844. He states that he was
obliged to limit his researches from lack of funds. He at once
reported to the Governor, on his arrival, and spent the rest of the
year in making a Calendar of the papers secured. He used the
dates of the Historical Year, beginning January 1, rather than of
the then English Legal Year, beginning March 25th, and also so
as to avoid the confusion of Old and ]!!Tew Style.

He expended in all twelve thousand dollars, not to speak of
considerable private expense incurred besides.

Action on Bkodhead's Report.

This Report with the Governor's message was referred to a
special Committee, who reported on May 5, 1845 :

They said, in substance : — • A respect for the memorials of the
past was a mark of advanced civilization. Savages and irrational
animals care only for the present, and are indifferent to the past
and the future. With the growth of intelligence there comes
solicitude for the future; but it requires a still higher degree of
progress to develop an interest in the past. The monuments of
antiquity are passed by as rubbish, until an enlightened desire
is awakened to understand the foundations of society, and the
sources of national greatness. America was long reproached
because she took no pains to preserve her ancient records. This
was no longer true.

To remove this reproach, it was only necessary to show the char-
acter of its early founders, whose Fatherland was a model of free-
dom and prosperity. The Report then referred to the action of
the Historical Society and to the Act of the Legislature appoint-

I
10 Introduction.

ing an Agent to go to Europe to procure copies of all important
documents; of the successive appropriations aggregating twelve
thousand dollars; of the appointment of Brodhead, and of his
efforts, with the voluminous results. Certain of the early inter-
esting documents were referred to. It was recommended that
the documents in foreign languages should be translated. The
Report referred to the great lack of documents and even of any
proper knowledge of jSTew York before 1638, until these docu-
ments were brought over. A letter of Bancroft was also referred
to, expressing his deep sense of their importance.

FuKTHEE Action on the Brodhead Documents.

The Brodhead documents remained for several years in the
condition in which they were, when deposited in the Secretary's
office. They were subsequently removed to the new State Hall
at Albany. Secretary Morgan then had all the other records
arranged and bound, making two hundred large folio volumes.
It was now suggested that a general Calendar of the entire Archives
should be made.

In 1848 an Act was passed for translating certain of these Dutch
and French documents. This was done by Dr. E. B. O'Callaghan,
and on January 5, 1849, these were ordered to be printed. In
April, 1850, a second volume of Documentary History was printed,
containing some of the Brodhead documents. On March 30, 1849,
another Act was passed to provide for the further publication of
Colonial Documents.

It was finally determined to print all the documents, and Dr.
O'Callaghan was appointed General Manager. In Assembly
Document 66 (1851), and Senate Document 24 (1853), and the
annual reports of the Comptroller, may be found detailed state-
ments of the progress of this work. The publication was to
consist of ten quarto volimies. Volumes 1 and 2 were to be Hol-
land Documents ; volumes 3 to 8, London Documents ; and volumes

Introduction. 11

9 and 10, Paris Documents. Volume 3 was first issued. This
was in 1853, and the others rapidly appeared.

The Usefulness of these Documents.

Accurate histories of the Empire State in part or in whole, have
greatly multiplied since the State has possessed this material. We
need only refer to O'Oallaghan's History of l^ew iNetherland,
coming down to 1664; Brodhead's History of New York, coming
down. to 1691. Mr. Brodhead died in 1873. We need not speak
of many others. Scores also of local histories have heen written,
drawing chiefly, or largely, from this material. Histories also of
Religious Denominations and of individual churches have multi-
plied : as Perry's History of the Episcopal Church ; Shea's History
of the Catholic Church; Corwin's Manual of the Eeformed
Church ; Briggs' History of Presbyterianism, and many others ; be-
sides the thirteen volumes of the American Church History Series,
embracing all denominations. Almost every one of these histories
resorted to this great storehouse of facts — the Documentary His-
tory and Colonial Documents — furnished by the State of !N'ew
York, for much of their material.

The further history of the procurement of Ecclesiastical Docu-
ments by Mr. Brodhead in 1841-4, and of the subsequent addi-
tions to the same, may perhaps be best given by extracts from a
Report made by the writer, who recently spent fifteen months in
Holland on a similar business:

When Mr. Brodhead started on his mission, the Rev. Dr.
Thomas De Witt, one of the pastors of the Collegiate Church of
New York, requested him to seek access also to some of the Eccle-
siastical Archives in Holland, (See Brodhead's Address, 1844, p.
8,) to ascertain whether there was not material to be found
therein which would throw light on the early history of the
churches of New York and New Jereey. This request was in

12 Introduction.

perfect harmony with, his main enterprise, and he cheerfully
consented. His letter, making application to the ecclesiastical
authorities in Holland, in 1841, for permission to search their
Archives, was found by the writer in his recent researches, as
well as several letters of Rev. Thomas De Witt bearing on the
same subject. Mr. Brodhead's application begins as follows :

" The undersigned, commissioned by the Governor of the State
of New York, as Agent, for the purpose of procuring in Holland,
England and France, documents illustratiag the early history of
the State, begs leave to submit a few observations to your Rev.
body ". He then briefly refers to the early planting of the
in their (Holland) Archives for the elucidation of the social and
religious history of the State. He adds : " The Revolutionary
War . . . was no doubt the cause why so many of our
precious records and memorials, which were deposited with the
different churches and ministers, are not now to be found. Great
exertions have been made, and are now making, to recover what-
ever is possible of these papers. . . . Unless the requisite-
material can be procured, it is obvious that we can never hope to
have a full and perfect history of our church written, which is
now an object of such great interest. . . . The documents
and papers in the Archives of the Classis " (of Amsterdam) " relat-
ing to the churches in 'New iN'etherland . . . are of the high-
est importance to the historian in New York. . . . They
would furnish a rich treasure from whence to draw materials for
the contemplated history . . . and would perpetuate the
remembrance of former times, and of the gratitude due to our
ancestors of the Fatherland. . . . ".

" Submitting most respectfully these observations to the Rev.
Classis,

The undersigned has the honor to be. Reverend Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
Amsterdam, J. Romeyn Brodhead."

6th Sept. 1841. '.

Inteoduotion. 13

His request was cheerfully granted. Mr. Brodhead, however,
could not make these particular searches himself, but he employed
Mr. Prins, then Stated Clerk of the Olassis of Amsterdam, and
a Mr. Vander Broek, an elder of the church there, and who
had also been the United States Consul in Amsterdam, to make
these searches for him. They did not, however, make their
investigations exhaustive.

They examined FIRST, as the Documents then obtained, show,
the seven volumes of the Correspondence, in which the letters
of the Classis of Amsterdam to their Colonial Churches in all
quarters of the world, were recorded. Transcripts were made
from these volumes, of much of the material relating to America,
amounting to about nine hundred pages.

In the SECOND PLACE, the parties employed to make these
searches, sought out the letters sent from America to the Classis.
Eor while the Classis kept copies of the letters which they sent
to the churches abroad, the letters from the Foreign Churches
to the Classis, were kept on file. At the time of Mr. Brodhead's
visit, (1841), they were stored away in bundles, according to some
method of classification, not now exactly understood. Out of
hundreds of such bundles, only seven were then found relating
to America. Five of these bundles related to the Dutch Churches
of !N"ew York and ISTew Jersey, and two of them to the German
Churches in 'New York, ISTew Jersey and Pennsylvania. These
seven bundles Avere placed in Mr, Brodhead's hands as a loan to
the General Synod of the Reformed Dutch Church in America,
for the term of four years, 1842-46. It was supposed at the time,
that these embraced all the letters, which had been written in
America, and sent to the Classis. At the end of the four years,
upon the earnest and repeated request of Rev. Dr. Thomas De
Witt, the ownership of these original letters was transferred ab-
solutely to the General Synod of the Dutch Church in America.

14 In^tkodtjction".

Tbaistsi^tion of the Brodhead Ecclesiastical Material.

isTow most of this Correspondence then obtained, — both that of
the Classis to America, and that of the American Churches to the
Classis — was translated about 1875, under the auspices of the
Synod's Committee for the selection of books for the Sage Library
(in l^ew Brunswick, K J.)^ This work was done by students of
Dutch descent, then in the Theological Seminary at New Bruns-
wick, IN". J. But these translations did not always prove to be in
the best English idiom. They have, therefore, been revised by
the writer, as opportunity permitted during the intervening years.
This material which was secured by Mr. Brodhead, approximates
to a couple of thousand pages and was largely utilized^ by the
writer in his Article on " The Church in the Colonial Period ",
in the volume known as " The Centennial Discourses^" 1876 ; and
also in the Third Edition of his " Manual of the Eeformed Church
in America, 1879."

Calendar of the Brodhead Ecclesiastical Material.

But while engaged in the preparation of the works just alluded
to, the writer gradually made for his own use a " Calendar " in
Chronological order, of all the ecclesiastical material obtained by
Brodhead, as well as of other similar material in the possession
of the Synod. He also included in this Calendar the titles of other

1 This Committee consisted of the Faculty of the New Brunswick Seminary — Rev.
Drs. S. M. Woodbridge, John De Witt, David Demarest, Abraham B. Van Zandt,
together with a Committee of co-operation — Rev. Drs. Talbot W. Chambers,
Chester D. Hartranft and Edward T. Corwin. In 1878 Dr. Hartranft removed to
Hartford, Ct., and Rev. Dr. Jacob Cooper, of Rutgers College, was appointed in his
place. Meetings were held monthly for ten years, 1875-85, and books amounting to
sixty thousand dollars were added to the Sage Library. This Library contains the
best collection on Holland, civil and ecclesiastical, in America.

* Broadhead in his history of New York, which unfortunately only extends down
to 1691, constantly quotes from these letters. A third volume of his History of New
York, 1691-1705, was almost ready for the press in 1873, when he died. Could not
this portion of his papers yet be recovered and edited? They cover a very important
period, 1691-1705, in the history of New York. O'Callaghan also quotes from these
same documents.

Introduction. 15

documents, incidentally alluded to, in the documents already pos-
sessed.^

As lie proceeded in this work, it became increasingly evident
that hardly half the Holland documents, which were certainly once
in existence, were now in the possession of the Church in this
country. This fact was confirmed by Rev. E. Randall Hoes, a
chaplain in the l!^avy, and a devoted student of Colonial Church
History, who visited Holland in 1885, and spent a month in the
Church Archives. He found two portfolios containing more than
three hundred documents written in America, mostly additional
to those obtained by Brodhead. He also noticed that the Minutes
of the various ecclesiastical bodies — those of the Classis and of the
Deputies — had not been examined in 1841, at least to any great
extent. He reported these facts to the General Synod of 1887,
and that Body, understanding that Rev. E. T. Corwin was about
to visit Holland for his health, authorized him to negotiate for the
additional material. (See Minutes of Greneral Synod, 1887, pages
440-2.) He could not secure a meeting of the Classis, as the minis-
ters, with two exceptions, were out of Amsterdam on their vaca-
tion; but he obtained access to the Archives, and he was abun-
dantly confirmed in the belief that there was a large quantity of
additional material. He, therefore, addressed a communication
to the Classis, explaining the -wish of the Synod; referring to the
material before obtained in 1841, and of the loan and ultimate
gift of the letters from America to the Synod; and of the desire
of the Synod to translate and print all the documents relating to
America, when the collection was complete. This communication
was translated into Dutch and fifty copies printed for distribu-
tion among members of the Classis. The Classis in due time
replied, expressing their joy at the interest manifested in these
historical studies in America, and their willingness to facilitate

» This Calendar was alao made ultimately to include references to most of the
similar material, both civil and ecclesiastical, relating to all phases of our colonial
■church history, of all denominations.

1^ Inteoduction.

them in any way in their power; but they could not comply
with the Synod's request. They could not loan documente, and
could not even consider the matter of selling them, as they be-
longed to the " TJniversitas."

Eeseaeches by De. Cobwin, 1897-8. — Peepaeatoey and

Geneeal.

The above facts were duly reported to the Synod of 1888 (pages
685-6), but the matter remained in abeyance for several years. In
1895, however, Eev. Dr. T. W. Chambers requested the writer to
furnish a copy of his Calendar of these ecclesiastical documents
obtained by Brodhead, for the Library of the Collegiate Church,
that renewed efforts might be initiated by that Church to
secure the additional material. The Calendar would show what
documents were already on hand, and avoid duplication in
the new efforts. His request was complied with, but before the
copy was delivered. Dr. Chambers died. Correspondence now
sprung up among the remaining members of the Committee (Revs.
D. D. Demarest, E. T. Corwin and R. E. Hoes), on this subject,
and interest in it was revived. This led to the calling of a meet-
ing of a number of gentlemen on June 1, 1896, to consider the
whole matter. This inaugurated a new enterprise for the procur-
ing of this material. Meantime Eev. Dr. Samuel M. Jackson of
Is^ew York, Secretary of the American Church History Society,
hearing of this movement, requested the wT-iter to prepare a Paper,
to be read before the Society in December, 1896 on " THE AM-
STEEDAM COEEESPOisTDEKCE." This was done. The
Paper was printed in the proceedings of the Society, and five hun-
dred copies separately, for private circulation. A report of the
Committee had also been made, to the Synod of 1896 (pages
499, 500,) which renewed the Synod's interest in the matter; and
circulars were issued about the same time, asking for one hundred
dollar subscriptions, or, lesser amounts, to raise five thousand

Inteocuction. 17

dollars to carry the enterprise of securing those documents to
success.'*

Financial arrangements having been partially made by the Com-
mittee having the business in charge, the writer left New York
on August 21, 1897, and was safely located in Amsterdam on
the first day of September. Every facility that could be desired
was soon accorded him by the Classis of Amsterdam, which
received him most courteously. They gave him the use of their
large ministerial chamber in the Consistory Building, erected in
one of the angles of the I^ew Church in Amsterdam, except when
it was wanted for other purposes. Not only here did he have
most excellent accommodations, in a large, well-lighted, airy-room,,
with extensive tables; but they also granted him as the representa-
tive of the American Reformed Dutch Church, whose credentials
he carried, free and unrestricted access to the rich Archives of the
Classis. He remained in Amsterdam for nine months, occupied
daily, with few exceptions, in the duties undertaken. The Synod
of North Holland, whose Archives are in the same apartments as
those of the Classis, granted him similar privileges. In the early
part of June he removed to the Hague, where equal facilities were
accorded him in the Archives of the General Synod, which are
there located. Here he remained for five months in similar occu-
pation, except a visit to Great Britain in the month of August.

* The pamphlet above alluded to, " The Amsterdam Correspondence." gives a
pretty full history of the whole enterprise down to date. The Circulars issued add
some information, as well as the Reports to the General Synod, 1896, pages 499. 500:
1897, pages 774-6; 1898, pages 250-2; 1899, pages 572-4. There were also not a few
Articles on the subject, about that time In the Christian Intelligencer; e. g. on
April 1, 1896; Sept. 29, 1897; Nov. 17, 1897; Jan. 5, 1898; Feb. 23, 1898; May 25.
1898; July, 1898; together with numerous other Articles by Drs. Suydam, Van Pelt,
Good; as well as Editorials on the Subject.

Introduction.

The Minutes of the (Old) Classis of Amsterdam.

The Acts of the (Old) Classis are contained in eighteen large
volumes, and extend from 1582-1816, as follows:

Vol. 1 from 1582-1605.

Vol. 10 from 1715-1730.

1606-1620.

1620-1631.

1631-1645.

1646-1656.

1656-1670.

1671-1686.

1686-1701.

1701-1715.

" 11

1730-1741.

" 12

1741-1754.

" 13

1754-1764.

a 14

1764-1774.

" 15

1775-1790.

" 16

1790-1805.

a ^^

1805-1808.

'' 18

1809-1816.

Vol. 19, Extracts from Vols. 6-9 from 1655-1705.

They were generally very closely written, one of their pages
making three or four of modern foolscap, when transcribed. Un-
til about 1700, they were written in the old Gothic chirogTaphy,
a peculiar script, imlike either the German or Latin script.

The writer did not think it necessary to examine Volumes 1
and 2, as they antedated the settlement of ISTew York, but Vol-
umes 3 to 18^ were carefully examined, page by page, with
the one object in view of securing everything relating to !N"ew
York and New Jersey. References were kept to every item of this
kind, and transcripts secured, amounting to three hundred and
eighty-two pages. These Extracts the writer had bound in two
volumes with dates and appropriate titles. They cover a period
of one hundred and seventy-eight years from 1632, the date of the
examination of Domine Everardus Bogardus, until 1810, when the
last lament is recorded, " ISTo news from New York and New Jer-

» Vol. 19, consisting of Extracts relating to the Foreign churches, taken from Vols.
6 to 9, (1655-1705), was also carefully examined. Having been made later in
another chirography, and no doubt for the convenience of the Deputies, it was often
of great service when the Gothic chirography was very difficult to read.

Introduction. 19

sey." It is believed that everything in the Minutes of the Classis,
relating to the American Dutch Churches, will be found in these
transcripts.

The Minutes of the Deputati Ad Res Exteras.

The Minutes of the " Deputies of the Classis on Foreign
Affairs," consists of six folio volumes, running, as numbered, from
twenty to twenty five, and cover a period of one hundred and
sixty six years, or from 1639-1804, as follows :

Vol. 20 from 1639-1663.

" 21 " 1663-1720.

" 22 " 1721-1744.

'" 23 " 1744-1751-1756.^

" 24 " 1751-1781.

" 25 " 1781-1804.

These Deputies were a sort of Permanent Executive Committee
of Classis, having special charge of the Colonial Churches in all
parts of the world. They corresponded not only with the Ameri-
can Dutch and German churches, but with those in the West
Indies, Guiana and Brazil ; with those in Guiana and the Cape of
Good Hope ; with those in Hindustan, Ceylon, Borneo, Java, For-
mosa and other islands of the Pacific, as well as wdth Japan; and
wath individual churches in several cities of the Russian and
Turkish Empires, and other parts of Europe. They provided
ministers and Comforters of the Sick for these churches or locali-
ties; made various arrangements, financial and otherwise, in their
behalf, with the Great Commercial Companies doing business
with these lands; endeavored to settle difficulties which arose;
gave advice, kept Minutes of their proceedings, recorded their

• Vol. 23 carries oa the Minutes from 1744-1751, wlien tiiey are continued in Voi.
24. But the Extracts from Foreign letters found In all these Minutes, are con-
tinued In Vol. 23, down to 1758; and these are then further continued in Vols. 33
and 34. Vols. 24 and 25 are supposed to contain " Minutes " only; but some letters
have slipped in. i

20 Introduction.

letters, filed those received from abroad, made Extracts of the
same for the information of the Classis, and reported monthly or
oftener thereon. In writing to the churches abroad, they acted
under general or specific instructions in each case. Their Minutes
exhibited the same multitudinous variety of subjects as those of
the Classis, and until about 1700 the same peculiar Gothic
chirography. The writing is extremely compact, yet perfectly
clear, although difficult to read.

The Coerespondence Between the Classis of Amsterdam
AND THE Colonial Churches.

The Minutes of the Classis and of the Deputies constantly
allude to the Correspondence. The letters to the Colonies were
prepared by the Deputies, subject to the approval of the Classis.
The Deputies also received all letters from abroad, and reported
them to the Classis. This Correspondence was maintained with
about a score of places in the East and West Indies.

The Letters of the Classis to the Foreign Churches.

There are now seven volumes of such letters in the Old Ar-
chives, which are numbered from 26-32 and run from 164S-1804,
as follows:"^

Vol. 26 from 1648-1655.

1666-1700.

1701-1726.

1727-1743.

1743-1753.

1753-1779.

1780-1804.

'' Between 1714-1720 very few documents or letters are found. There are also
several smaller gaps.

Introduction. 21

These volumes contain many hundreds of letters. An odd
Volume, 39 (1636-1648), constitutes, in certain respects, a pre-
liminary volume to this set, as well as to the volumes of Minutes
of the Deputies. There was once, another volume, still earlier
than 39, ending in 1635, according to the " Inventory ", (or
Catalogue) but which is damaged to such an extent as to be use-
less. The injury to this volume must have occurred before 1816,
as it was not numbered, when the other volumes were numbered.
Vol. 26, the first of this set, as now numbered, runs from 1648-
1655, when an hiatus occurs of about eleven years, suggesting
lanother lost volume, but to which no allusion is made in the
^' Inventory ". The other volumes of Correspondence, ]^os. 27-32,
run without break from 1666-1804. Vol. 28, of this set, is said
in the " Inventory " to be lost; but there is now a volume in the
Archives, quite dilapidated, apparently unnumbered, and which
just fills in the gap, and is, no doubt, the once lost volume 28.
Vols. 30, 31 and 32, are designated on their covers, respectively
as "Copy-book, Part I"; "Copy-book, Part n"; "Copy-book,
Part III " ; this word being used in the sense of a volume in which
letters are copied or recorded.

Vol. 30 Copy-book, Part I; Letters 1-136.

" 31 " " " II; " 1-314.

" 32 " " " in; " 1-95, the balance of
the letters being unnumbered.

!N"ow it was from these seven volumes of Correspondence, Nos.
26-32, that most of the material obtained by Brodhead in 1841-4,
was secured. The nine hundred pages then obtained have already
been referred to in this Report.

The searchers employed by Brodhead do not seem to have ex-
amined the Minutes of the Classis at all; to have made a very

22 Intkodtjction.

cursory examination of the Minutes of the Deputies, and to have
done nothing with the Minutes of the Synod of l^orth Holland.
They seem to have supposed that the transcription of the items
in the Correspondence would sufficiently cover everything.
Neither did they examine the odd volume, 'No. 39. If they had
examined the Minutes of the Classis, and Vol. 39, they could not
well have missed the references to Michaelius and Bogardus
which are contained therein. But Michaelius was yet utterly un-
known to Brodhead when he published the first edition of Vol. I.
of his history of !N'ew York in 1853, twelve years after these
searches; and indeed the items in these volumes were not dis-
covered, until after the discovery of the famous Michaelius letter
in 1857. This led to an examination, under the auspices of Hon.
Henry C. Murphy, of the Minutes of the Classis and the Deputies,
and brought to light the few references therein, to Michaelius.^

We may now be reasonably sure that we have all the material
written by the Classis to our churches, so far as it now exists in
their Archives ; part of it being in the bound volume of nine hun-
dred pages in the Xew Brunswick Archives, and part being in
the present collection. These two lots are intermingled in this
publication.

The Letteks of the Foreign Churches to the Chassis.

The Classis has many thousands of such letters on file, at pres-
ent arranged in twenty five large Portfolios, with titles accord-
ing to the countries from which they came. The present Classifi-
cation, the writer was informed, was made about 1880, by Drs.
Kogge and Scheltema, at the request of the Classis. There are
now four Portfolios containing letters from the East Indies; three
containing letters from Ceylon ; seven from the West Indies ; two
from Curacoa and Surinam; one from the smaller islands of the
West Indies; two from the Cape of Good Hope; three from l^orth

» Col. DocB. N. T. 11. 759.

Introduction. 23

America, of whicli two contain letters from 'New York and !N"ew
Jersey being the residue of those not found in 1842 ; and one from
Pennsylvania; while one Portfolio contains letters of a miscel-
laneous kind.

If this classification had existed in 1842, we would, no doubt,
have received, at that time, the loan of the entire collection of
letters written in America; but only about one half were then
placed in Mr. Brodhead's hands. But the belief, excited by the
construction of the writer's Calendar in 1875, that there must be
a large additional number of letters in existence, and the actual
discovery of the same by Chaplain Hoes, in 1885, owing to the
new classification of all the filed letters in 1880, led, ultimately,
as we have seen, to the enterprise of sending the writer to Hol-
land in 1897, for a new search, and the acquisition of copies of
this new material. Among the first things which he did upon
reaching Amsterdam, was carefully to examine the two port-
folios of letters from Nevr York and New Jersey, in the very hand
writing of the early Domines, and compare their titles and dates
with his Calendar of similar letters already prepared. While
there were a few duplicates, about ninety per cent of them were
new material, and were needed, to complete our collection. Tran-
scribers were at once set to work, and the resiilts are exhibited
in four large volumes of transcriptions, making about a thousand
pages.

These transcriptions are thus arranged:

Vol. I. 1700-1730.

" 11. 1731-1750.

" III. 1751-1754.

" IV. 1755-1788;

but these do not include the American letters obtained by Brod-
head in 1842. The two lots are to be commingled in this publi-
cation.

24 Introdttction".

This new material is all between 1700 and 1800. Among these
letters and documents are recovered the lost Minutes of several
sessions of the Coetus, or early American Classis, subsequent
to 1754, representing some of the most important Acts of that
body in connection with the assumption of independence by the
Dutch Church. But we are sarry to say that the Minutes of sev-
eral sessions of that body are still missing, but all the facts are
probably covered by the Correspondence of the period. There are
also several lengthy and important papers among the documents
now recovered, upon special local, or personal themes, which will
clear up not a few obscure points in the history of the last century.
We cannot here refer to these documents in detail. These new
found documents are about three hundred and twelve in number,
often with other documents appended.^

The Minutes of the Synod of IsToeth Holland.

The Minutes of this Synod begin as far back as 1572, ten years
before those of the Classis of Amsterdam, reaching into the very
days of Spanish tyranny. The Minutes of all the Particular
Synods of the N'orthern ISTetherlands from 1572-1620, have re-
cently been collected together and printed, in eight volumes.
This publication is very valuable, and although antedating the
settlement of 'New York, contains much matter of great historical
interest to Americans. A set of these Minutes was purchased for
the Collegiate Church of ISTew York. There is also a set of the
same in the Sage Library at ISTew Brunswick, IT. J.^^

» These appended documents are called " Bylagen ", meaning Attached Documents,
Supplements or Appendix-es.

"> This publication Is edited by Reitsma and Van Veen, and was printed by
Wolters of Groningen. The first volume was Issued in 1891, and the eighth appeared
in 1899. From 1608-1618, the Synod of North Holland did not hold any sessions, on
account of the civil and theological troubles then developing, and which led to the
holding of the National Synod of Dort, 1618-19. At the close of the Minutes of 1608,
occurs a Latin note, which reads as follows: " From this time, 1608, until the year
of our Lord, 1618, the Annual Synodlcai Assembly could not be held, according to
Its wonted custom, on account of the excessive troubles, with the dissensions In the
Church. At the restoration of ecclesiastical and civil order, a Provincial Synod was
legally held, and afterward a National Synod, as convoked by public authority, In
the year 1618."

Inteoduction. 25

The writer began his examination of the Minutes of the North
Holland Synod with the year 1621. His researches in this field
were carried on partly at the Hague. All the volumes were care-
fully examined between 1621 and 1810, covering a period of one
hundred and ninety years. The examinations and departures
of the ministers (to the Colonies) are quite regularly reported
therein. Brief extracts from the letters from the Colonies, includ-
ing, of course, New Netherland, are also quite generally given.

The writer was pleased to find the name of Jonas Michaelius
our first American Minister, 1628, in the Minutes of the Synod
of North Holland, in the year 1621 and 1624. On the first
occasion he is mentioned as a delegate from the Classis of Enk-
huysen, to the Synod, coming from the Church of Hem, a little
hamlet near the city of Hoorn; and in the second instance, as
being dismissed from Hem, by the same Classis, in order to go
to San Salvador, in Brazil; but strange to say, no further refer-
ences to him are found in the Minutes of the Synod of North
Holland, although he was probably sent by the same Classis of
Enkhuysen to New York, and which should have been reported
to this Synod, in 1628 or 1629. The records of the Classis of
Enkhuysen were burned in 1838, in a fire which consumed the
Groote Kerk there, and hence we could not examine into the
matter from that source.

The transcriptions from these Synodical Minutes amount to
about fourteen hundred pages, and are bound in five volumes,
which are properly " titled " and " dated ".^^

" These transcriptions »re as follows:
Vol. I. 1621-1642.
II. 1643-1666.
" III. 1667-1683.
" IV. 1684-1729.
V. 1730-1810.
But mnch of the material secured from these Synodical Minutes, of interest In a
general way, the writer did not feel warranted to put among the material published
by the State.

26 Introduction.

The Aechives of the General Synod.

It is proper here to say a few words, in passing, about the
Archives of the GENERAL SYNOD of the Church of the
Netherlands. Their General Synod as a distinct body, dates back
only to 1816. With the Minutes of this body,^ this Report has no
special interest, as they do not reach back to the Colonial Period.
But the Archives of the General Synod contain a unique collec-
tion of records and documents, and are the most extensive Eccle-
siastical Archives in the country. They are located in the
" Synodical Building " at 100 Java street, in the Hague. The
older records are kept in two very large iron safes, on the lower
floor. Therein are found the original Minutes of those six early
Synodical Conventions from 1568-1586,-^^ which formulated the
government of the Dutch Church, and also adopted its standards
— 'the Belgic Confession and the Heidelberg Catechism. Here
are also the original Minutes of the great and famous Synod of
Dort, 1618-19, in nineteen large volumes. ■'^* They are in the
Latin language, and after two hundred and seventy years, are yet
in a perfect state of preservation, the ink being just as black as if
written yesterday. Here are to be seen the original signatures
of all the delegates from most of the countries of Europe. All
these signatures are repeated five times, as they are subscribed
separately, to each of the five Heads of Doctrine involved; and
each set of signatures occupies five pages. The writer also had
photographic copies of these signatures taken.-^^ Here are also

" These Minutes have been regularly printed since 1816, and a set of them Is to
Bfr' found in the Sage Library at New Brunswick, N. J.

" Of Wesel, 1568; of Embden, 1571; of Dordrecht, 1574 and 1578; of Middleburg,
1581; and of the Hague, 1586. These have been printed in the " Groot Plakaat
Boek " and the " Kerkelyk Plakaat Boek ", and in many other editions, but never
yet, in full, in English.

" Ail the business of this Synod, which lasted for six months, was conducted In
Latin. Latin and Dutch editions of the proceedings were soon issued; but, perhaps,
only one Latin edition of the " Post-Acta " was ever published, and hence, prob-
ably, its scarcity. But the Latin being the original, and, therefore, especially
desirable, photographic copies of the original sixty-four pages were secured.

" Since writing the above, the Post-Acta In both Latin and Dutch, in parallel

Introduction. 27

the original Minutes and ISTotes of the Translators of the Dutch
Bible of 1637, filling many volumes. These Archives also con-
tain manuscript sets of the Minutes of each of the Particular
Synods of Holland, — of Gelderland, Friesland, Overyssel, Gron-
ingen, Utrecht, South Holland and ISTorth Holland, with many
individual duplicate volumes. The Minutes of the old Classis
of DeKt, in seven volumes, are also here, and perhaps those of
other Classes. The loose documents belonging to the Synod of
South Holland, (whose Archives are also here), are very numer-
ous, among which are many documents relating to Pennsylvania.
There are very few papers here relating to I^ew York, as their
Correspondence was almost exclusively wirth the Classis of Amster-
dam, and the Synod of I^orth Holland. Here is also a set of
the Great Edict Book, (Groot Plakaat Boek), of the States-Gen-
eral, containing all the Edicts, civil and ecclesiastical,-'^^ for about
two centuries. This work is printed in seven huge volumes.
The Edicts relating especially to the Church have also been
collected out of this great work, and are found in the " Eccle-
siastical Edict Book " (Kerckelyke Plakaat Boek), which is
printed in four smaller volumes.-^^ Here are also countless docu-

columns, have been issued by Dr. H. H. Kuyper, in one volume of five hundred and
thirty pages, octavo, under the following title:

" De Post-Acta of Nahandellngen van de Nationale Synode van Dordrecht in 1618
en 1619 Gehouden, naar den autheutieken tekst in het Latyn en Nederlandsch*
uitgegeven en met toelichtingen voorzien, voorafgegaan door De Geschiedenls van de
Acta, de Autographa en de Post-Acta dler Synode en Gevolgd door de Geschiedenls
van de Revisie der Belydeniddchrlften en der Liturgle benevens de Volledlge Lyst
der Gravamina op de Dordtsche Synode ingedlend Een Historische Studie door Dr.
H. H. Kuyper, Bedienaar des Woords te Leeuwarden. Boekhandel, voorheen
Hovoker en Wormser. Amsterdam. Pretoria ".

Or: " The Post-Acta, or After-Acta of the National Synod of Dort, held In 1618-19
published according to the authentic text of the Latin and Dutch, and provided with
explanations; preceded by the history of the Acts, the Autographs and the Post-
Acta of this Synod, and followed by the History of the Revision of the Confession
of Faith and the Liturgy; together with a complete list of the Gravamina presented
at the Synod of Dort. A Historical Study by Dr. H. H. Kuyper, Minister of the
Word at Leewardon. Hoveker and Wormser. Amsterdam and Pretoria." (1899).

" Even all the doctrinal parts of the Synod of Dort are In full in this Groot
Plakaat Boek, with the names of the delegates. There is a copy of this work in the
New York State Library; in the Sage Library at New Brunswick,- N. J., and a copy
Is owned by Rev. E. T. Corwin. The copy in State Library was secured by Brod-
head. See Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 27.

" A copy of this work was bought for the Collegiate Church of New York. The
Sage Library has only the first two volumes.

2° Intboductiow.

ments relating to the Colonial Churches in all parts of tRe world.
A printed Catalogue of these Archives, called the Old Sjnodical
Archives, (Oud Synodaal Archief) was prepared bj H. Q. Jans-
sen, 1876, containing one hundred and ninety six pages, several
copies of which were secured. One was given to the Library of the
Collegiate Church, New York; one to the Sage Library, New
Brunswick, K J. ; one to the Library of Theological Seminary,
Holland, Mich. ; one to State Library, New York; and the writer
has one.

Limitations in these Eesearches.

It was impossible, under limitations of time and means, to make
more extensive researches in these several Archives.

As the Synods communicated their business to one another,
corroborations of the facts of our American history would, more
or less fully, be found, and occasionally additional facts might
have been secured, by such examinations. ^^ If circumstances had
permitted, items of interest might have been looked up also at
the birth-places, or settlements of the early Dutch ministers, as the
Church records are, generally, very complete. The General Cata-
logues of the Universities ' indicate the ages, residences, depart-
ments of study and other particulars, of nearly all of the early
Dutch ministers.^^

The writer had also intended to visit the town of Hem, near
Hoorn, to try to discover additional facts from the church there,
about Eev. Jonas Michaelius, who was settled there from 1614-
1624, when he went to Brazil; but sad to say, the records of this

*» E. g. The Coetus of Pennsylvania reported quite fully to the Synod of South
Holland the overtures for union made to them by the Coetus of New York, 1763-1770.
The Synod of South Holland seems to have as much, if not more material, relating
to Pennsylvania, than the Synod of North Holland and the Ciassis of Amsterdam.
This has been obtained by Rev. Dr. James I. Good, of Reading, Pa., and Prof.
Hinke, of Philadelphia.

" The General Catalogue is styled, " Album Studiosorum "

Many facts as to the places from which these ministers came, their ages, the de-
partments of study — medicine, jurisprudence, or theology — will be found in these
Alba Studiosorum. Those of Leyden and Utrecht were purchased for the Collegiate
Church. That of Groningen is owned by the writer.

Inteoduction. 29

Church were burned up during his first week's residence in Amster-
dam, September, 1897. This shows the importance of collecting
documents relating to America while it is possible.

References to Other Items of Interest to the German
Churches in Pennsylvania.

In going over the volumes of the Classis of Amsterdam and
of its Deputies, references were kept to all items relating to the
German Churches in the United States, not only because of their
own importance to our American Church History, but because
of their many interlinked relations with the Dutch Churches of
ISTew York and ISTew Jersey. Before The Revolution there were
about twenty German Churches in these two States; and not a
few German ministers went back and forth between these J^ew
York churches and those of Pennsylvania. Transcriptions were,
therefore, secured, of items relating especially to the New York
and N"ew Jersey German churches of that period, while references
were kept to the other items referred to.

General Worth of the Material Obtained.

To the historian original documents are invaluable. The
transcriptions now secured constitute the fundamental facts of
the ecclesiastical history of New York and New Jersey. About
three-fourths of these documents relate to New York and one-
fourth to New Jersey, but they cannot very well be separated,
and ought not to be. They represent much of the social history
of colonial times, although they of course relate chiefly to the
religious history. There are also not a few allusions to civil mat-
ters, which cannot fail to be of interest in the General Civil His-
tory of these States. Indeed, the social, civil and religioi^s his-
tories in colonial times were so closely blended that they cannot
be altogether divided. This fact abundantly appears in the
Documentary History of New York, and in the Colonial Docu-

30 Introduction.

ments of the same State. The eame also appears in the similar
set of volumes styled " The Archives of iSTew Jersey ". The gen-
eral tone of the documents obtained also gives a true and living
picture of the religious life of Holland during the seventeenth
and eighteenth centuries. They show a genuine spirit of piety^
and great zeal to promote the spiritual interests of the Colonial
churches. The labor involved in the care of the many Colonial
churches, by. this Classis, scattered all over the world, seems
almost incredible. A general spirit of fraternity also existed vnth
all the neighboring churches — those of Switzerland, Germany,
Poland, France and England. There is a standing Article in the
Minutes, for several generations, on " Oppressed Churches " and
" Sufferers on the Galleys. " There is an unceasing stream of
" love gifts ", received and bestowed, on needy churches and
individuals. Indeed, as early as 1643-48, the Classis of Amster-
dam sent no less than ten thousand dollars (no small sum in those
days), to Ireland, to relieve the distress in that country, after the
desolating wars of those times. Also provinces which had been
inundated always called out the gifts of the churches. Money
was annually sent to Pennsylvania, to assist the Germans there,
for two full generations, 1728-1792.

There are also constant allusions, in this Correspondence, to
other denominations in -America, especially to the Presbyterians
from 1740 onward. Allusions to the Church of England are not
infrequent. The influence of the Dutch in resisting the Estab-
lishment of the English Church, which did not represent a tenth
of the inhabitants, will receive much additional light from these
documents; as well as the general influence of the Dutch in pre-
paring the way for the entire separation of Church and State.
What the " Documentary History of New York ", and the
" Documents Relating to the Colonial History of New York ",
have been for the study of the civil history, including much of
the ecclesiastical; the same will these "Original Ecclesiastical

Inteoduction". 31

Documents " be, for the study of the ecclesiastical history of the
State, including also much of the civil history. Their worth to
local church histories will also be very great.

Incorporation of Other Material.

It was thought wise, finally, in such a collection, embracing
so large a proportion of the ecclesiastical documents of Colonial
times, to incorporate also some other important papers, such as
church-charters, the legal phraseology of which becomes more
liberal ■v\dth the growing century; also the repeated applications
for Charters by congregations of other denominations besides
those of the Heformed Dutch Church and the Episcopalians, but
which were never granted; also the three college charters of ISTew
York and New Jersey of the Colonial period. These are those of
the College of ]^ew Jersey (now at Princeton), 1746; Kings
(Columbia) College, 'N&w York City, 1753; Queens (Rutgers) Col-
lege, 'New Brunswick, 1766 and 1770. Occasionally, also, church
calls, with their varying forms of phraseology according to the
periods and the struggles of the times, have been included; also
certain civil legislation, bearing on the churches, as well as certain
judicial decisions relating to the same, anticipating the dawn of
full religious liberty ;^^ or where this was found to be imprac-
ticable, at least an abstract of such facts, with references to the
documents, have been inserted at the proper points. It adds but
little to the bulk of the work, to include the documents from all
denominations, or at least abstracts and references to the same.
This also adds greatly to the value of the work, making it more
unique and complete as " Original Documents Relating to all the
Religious Bodies of Colonial Times in New York and New
Jersey " ; for these two provinces were generally under one
Governor.

*" Certain ecclesiastical edicts in Holland and England would aUo throw further
light on American Church history.

Acts of the Synod of North Holland, at Haablem. 1621

1621, Aug. 24 et seq.
Transactions of the Particular Synod of Xorth Holland, held in
the city of Haarlem, Anno, 1621, on August 24 and follow-
ing davs.

After the Brethren, delegated by the Classes belonging to the
Synod of l^orth Holland, appeared, the Rev. Henricus Gees-
teranus began the meeting by calling on the name of the Lord.
Afterwards the credentials of the aforesaid delegates were opened
and read, and unanimously approved by the Assembly. It was
found that the following Ministers and Elders had been delegated
to this Synod:

("We give the names of the delegates to this Synod of Xorth
Holland for 1621, in full, because Rev. Jonas IVIichaelius, sub-
sequently, 1628, the first Minister at Xew York, was among them.)

From (Classis of) Haarlem.

Rev. Henricus Geesteranus, of Haerlem.
Rev. John Junius, Minister at Assendelft.
Cornelius Cornelisse, Elder of Haerlem.
Aert Jansse, Elder of East Laenen.

From (Classis of) Amsterdam.

Rev. John La Maire, Minister at Amsterdam.
Rev. Hermanns Busschovius, ]\Iinister at Weesp.
Dirck Gerritze, Elder at Amsterdam.
Peter Cornelisse, Elder at Sloterdyk.
3 33

34 Ecclesiastical Kecords

From (Classis of) Hoorn.

Eev. RippertiTs Sirtus, Minister at Hoorn.
Eev. Anthonius Hansonis, llinister at Twisch.
Peter Willemse, Elder at Hoorn.
Claes Jansse, Elder at Hoiiwaert.

Erom (Classis of) Enkhnysen.

Rev. Abraham a Doreslaer, Minister at Enkhnysen.

REV. JOIsTAS JOHAXmS* MICHAELIUS,t Minister at Hem.

John Erancisci (Fransse) Hooman, Elder at Enkhnysen.
Bartholomew Martensse, Elder at Medemblik.

From (Classis of) Edam.

Rev. Jacobus de Roo, Minister at Edam.
Rev. Bemardns Jaitz, Minister at Znider Horn.
Simon Pietersse, Elder at Edam.
Henry Dirxe, Elder at Parmerend.

From (Classis of) Alkmaar.

Rev. William jSTicolay Somer, Minister at Alkmaar.
Rev. Gualterus Adriani, Minister at Graft and Ryp.
Barck Cornelisse Achagen, Elder at Alkmaar.
Claes Cornelisse, Elder at Schagen.

Note on the Village of Hem, where Rev. Jonas Michaelius first
settled, 161^1624.

Hem, the to^\Ti and church where the Rev. Jonas Michaelius
ministered from 1614-1624, when he went to San Salvador in
Brazil, and in 1623 became the first Dutch minister in New Am-
sterdam, (New York,) is thus described in Van der Aa's Geo-
graphical Gazetteer, 1644.

* Johannis here is in genitive case, and is the name of the Father of Jonas,
t The name of Michaelius does not occur a^ain in the Minutes of this session.

OF THE State of !N^ew Yoek. 35

Yillage and Ckurch of Hem.
Hem, village in Dregterland, Province of North Holland, a
court circuit, and two kours W. S. W. from Enkhuizen, a subdi-
vision of the community (gemeente) of " Yenhuizen-and-Hem " ;
a half hour W. of Yenhuizen, on the so called Short Stretch
(Korte-Streek). It is estimated that there are within the bounds
(kom) of the village, one hundred houses, and six hundred and
thirty inhabitants. These mostly gain their subsistence by agri-
culture and cattle raising.

The Reformed, who are here fully five hundred in number, and
among whom are one hundred and sixty communicants, consti-
tute a congregation which belongs to the Classis of Hoorn, and
the subdivision (ring) of Enkhuizen.* The first one to exercise
here the duties of a minister, was Sybrand Yomelius, who came
here in the year 1573, and died or left in the year 1580. The
Church, (or living), which before the Eeformation, was dedicated
to the Holy Evangelist Luke, was at that time subject to the gift
of the Counts; the "Investiture" was made by the Provost
(Proost) of West Friesland. The "living" (pastorij) amounted
altogether to 50 Rhenish guilders (75 Dutch guilders, or $30.)
It then possessed no house for the pastor, but it had seven mor-
gan (fourteen acres) of land. For the sexton's support (lit. sex-
tonship) there were three morgen (six acres) of land. The
church is an ancient cruciform structure, in which at the base
much duifsteen (gravelly, porous stone) may still be seen. The
tower is square, with an octagonal steeple, rather high. There
is no organ in the church. The call is made by the Consistory.

The Roman Catholics of whom there are found to be three hun-
dred and fifty, belong to the Stat, (station?) of Hem-and-Yen-
huizen, which had a church here dedicated in early times to Saint
Luke. This was abandoned in the year 1835.

• In 1785 and 1793. Hem and Venhuizen were separate churches, and reckoned
lander the Classis of Enkhuizen. Several other of the early Dutch ministers of New
\ork were previously or subsequently pastors at Hem; for example, Rev. Samuel
Megapolensis and Rev. William Nleuwenhuyaen, etc

36 Ecclesiastical Records

The baptismal scliool (doop school — parochial school?) is at-
tended, on the average, by about one hundred pupils.

In the year 1387 Ham-and-Venhuizen leased their own fishery
from the Count. According to charter by Duke William of
Bavaria (Count William II) under date of February 2, 1413,
Hem, in union with Venhuizen, was elevated into a city, under the
designation of the " City of Hem ", whereby were determined its
Citizen rights. Magistracy, Government, etc. In 1492, the fine
imposed upon it on account of the Cheese and Bread Rebellion
(an agrarian insurrection) was lightened one third. In 1508
there arose a fierce dispute between them and Wydeness about a
road, stretching from the Blokdyke to the Meeu Road, which was
arbitrated by Enkhuizen. In 1508 the people of Hem cooperated
as a labor of love in the fortifying of the city of Hoorn, The
rulers (regenten) iu the year 1741, bought up (hebben afgekocht)
the manorial rights, (ambachtsheerlijkheid), so that now it is no
longer a manor, (heerlijkheid.)

From the " Aardrijkskundig Woordenboek der Nederlanden bi-
jeengebracht door A. J, van der Aa." Published at Gorinchem by
Jacobus Noorduyn, 1844.

1623. THE WALLOONS.

1622, Feb. 5.

Certain Walloons* and French petitioned the King of England to settle In Vir-
ginia. See Petition, Col. Docs. N. Y. ill. 9. This was not granted. Certain Wal-
loons, probably the same, subsequently petitioned the States General, to settle in
New Netherland. The following action was taken:

Beaoiution of the States of Holland and West Friesland on a proposed plan of
Emigration. The 21 April, 1622.

The Directors of the West India Company report that they have examined the
paper relative to the Families to be conveyed to the West Indies, and are of
opinion, that it is very advantageous for the Company, and therefore that an effort

• The Walloons were a Romance people of Galilean and Teutonic origin, who had
crossed the French border, and settled in Belgium chiefly in Hainault, Namur, Lux-
emburg, Limburg and Liege. Their language is an old dialect of the French; It
has a small literature of Its own. Of these Walloons many embraced the Reformed
faith, and were obliged to fly in consequence, being expelled by the Spaniards from
the Catholic Netherlands; many passed into Holland, and somw found their way to
England. From some of these people, desirous of finding a settled home, came a
petition to King James in 1621, for permission to go to Virginia and there to form
an establishment of their own. They had high and aristocratic notions; they

OF THE State of IsTew York. 37

ought to be made to promote it, with a promise that they should be employed;
and to postpone it until the Directors should be formed, if the Assembly thought
proper that this promise should be made to them; which, being considered by tha
Lords, gentlemen and cities, it is unanimously resolved and concluded, that tha
said promise shall be given with the knowledge of the Magistracy, and to proceed
with it accordingly.— Col. Docs. N. Y. 1. 28.

Says Wassenaar: In the spring of 1623, the West India Company equipped •' a
vessel of one hundred and thirty lasts, called the New Netherlands, whereof Cor-
nelius Jacobs of Hoorn was Skipper, with thirty families, mostly Walloons ".
They sailed by way of the Canaries, and reached the Hudson River. . . .

The New Netherlands, on her arrival, was joined by the yacht Mackerel, which
kad come over by way of the West Indies the previous year. She found a French
Ship in the harbor, which, with the aid of the Mackerel, she attacked and drove
away. On the New Netherlands, was one Catallna Trico, born in Paris. — Doc.
Hist. N. Y. ill. 23, 24.

NOTE ON THE FIRST TWO DIRECTORS. 1623-1625.

The West India Company was chartered June 3, 1621. After two years of pre-
liminary preparation, the Company was fully organized, and began to prosecute with
energy the objects of its incorporation. New Netherland was made a province In
1623, and assigned to the care of the Amsterdam Chamber. The Provincial seal of
New Netherland was a shield, bearing a beaver, proper, surmounted by a count's
coronet, and encircled by the words " Sigillum Novi Belgii ". In the spring of 1623,
the first permanent colonization began. The ship " New Netherland " was equipped
and brought thirty families over, the greater part of whom were Walloons. Cor-
nells Jacobson May superintended this expedition, which reached Manhattan in
May. Manhattan Island was taken possession of in the name of the Company.
The Director then went with the colonists up the North River and built Fort
Orange on Castle Island, where about eighteen families settled. Alliances were at
once made with the neighboring Indians, and trade in peltry was begun. May then
went to the South River and built Fort Nassau, near where the city of Gloucester
now stands. Some of the Walloons who came over at this time settled at Walla-
bout, or the Walloon's Boght or Cove. Other emigrants soon followed. The furs
sent back to Holland during May's administration amounted to twenty-eight thou-
sand guilders. He was succeeded in 1624 by William Verhulst as Director, who
returned to Holland in November, 1625. There seem to be no special references to
religion or ecclesiastical matters during the term of these two Directors.

163S

wished to live as nobles, in a kind of feudal system, and asked that they might be
granted, in the new country, certain extraordinary and exclusive privileges for
themselves and their descendants. The petition was denied, and the scheme, though
twice propo.sid iu 1G21, and again In 1622, fell through.— Dr. Dix, Hist. Trinity Ch.
N. Y., 1. 24, 25.

1624

38 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

1624, Aug. 6, et seq.

SnfroD or IN'orth Holland, held at Enkhtjysen.

Article 33.

IV. With whom shall be the direction and supervision of the
Churches in the East Indies?*

Answer: That the direction shall remain with the churches
and Classes within whose bounds are located the East India
(Company's) Chambers. In order that this matter, general
equality, [lit. a footing universally equal], may be maintained,
it was resolved to request the Seventeen, [the Central Board
of the East India Company, consisting of seventeen members,]
to be pleased to defray the necessary expenses. Thus the dele-
gates of the several Churches and Classes may assemble at con-
venient seasons, and conjointly be able to adopt resolutions about
the Gravamina [Grievances or Questions] coming up from the
East Indies, with unanimity, and in the presence of the Deputies
of the Synods; thus also may they be able to render a proper re-
port of what has been done [by the several Classes], to the re-
spective Synods. But in order that all this may be done with due
respect for the High Authorities, therefore the Messrs., the States
of Holland and West Friesland, shall be waited on [begroeten]
about this matter, and their High ]\Iighty Authority be requested.

On this same occasion, the delegates of the other Provinces
suggested, that inasmuch as the supervision of the church affairs
in the East Indies concerns all the churches of this land in com-
mon, whether it would not be well to pcnnit the churches of the

• Upon the same principle was founded the management of the churches in the
territories of the West India Company, viz., New Netherland, Brazil, Surinam,
West India Islands, Cape Colony, etc. Hence the ports of Hoorn and Bnkhuysen,
and the Classes of the same name, at first had charge of any ecclesiastical mat-
ters In New Netherland. Michaelius was sent over by the Classis of Enkhuysen.
But in 1628, just after his departure for America, the control of New Netherland
passed Into the care of the Classis of Amsterdam, as Michaelius intimates in his
letter.

OF THE State of New York. 39

other Provinces to send their delegates, at their own expense, to
the Assembly beforementioned, that they might likewise take part
in the knowledge and supervision of all. The Synod having dis-
cussed this matter, gave for answer as follows: that while this
business [above alluded to] is not yet effected, they will be
pleased to be patient; and to believe that when it is carried into
effect, as desired, that then, this their suggestion, shall be duly
taken into consideration. They were veiy well pleased to accept
of this answer.

1625, Aug. 12, et seq.

Synod of J^oeth Holland, at Edam.

Article 19. The matter of the Church-Order in the East Indies,
remains open, as heretofore.

Art. 22. East Indian Chui'ches.
As to the direction and supervision of the East India Churches
— more fully recited in Art. 33, (1624) — it is reported that the
proposal therein mentioned, is not as yet granted by definite de-
cisions. It was proposed by the Deputati of Utrecht, as well as by
those of Overyssel, in the name of their respective Synods, and
more urgently by those of Gelderland, that inasmuch as the su-
pervision of Church affairs in the East Indias concerns equally,
all the churches of this land, whether it were not well to recog^
nize in this whole business, all the churches in their respective
Provinces. The Synod gave further consideration to this matter
but still holds to the previous resolution. This matter is therefor©
still left in statu.

Art. 43. Ministerial changes, in the several Classes, indicated.
[This first example of such changes is given, because the name
of Michaelius occurs.]

In the Classis of Edam.
Died: Jacobus Pauli, formerly Minister at Beets and Oud-

endyc.

1635

40 Ecclesiastical Records

Removed: Isaac Lvdius.

Came in: John Ab. Otten, ordained and called at Beets and
Ondendvc.

In tlie Classis of xVlkmaar.
Died : Vincentins Mensevoet, at Schagen,

Removed : Daniel Koningsvelt, of .the TVael and Oosterejmde.
Came in : Louis Hondins, from Huyssam to Schagen. John

Backer, called and ordained at the Wael and Oos-

teynde.

In the Classis of Haarlem.
Died : Claes Claessen, late Minister at Uitgeest,

Emeritus : Claes Aelbertsen, at East Saenen.
Came in: Henry Geldorpius, at East Saenen; Isaac Plantius, at
Heemstede; Obdias Witmarius, at Uytgeest.

In the Classis of Amsterdam.
Removed: Louis Hondius, from Huyssum to Schagen.
Came in: Cornelius Hanecopius, from Breda to Amsterdam;
Philip Bevert, called and ordained at Huyssum.

In the Classis of Hoorn.

Died: Corn. Jansse, late Minister at Schellinchout.

Came in : Gerard Puppius, from Breuckel to Hoorn.

In the Classis of Enkhuysen.

Removed: Jonas Michielse,* from Hem to Brazil, at San Sal-
vador.

Came in: Frans Esause, on East Vlielandt; George "\^"esselius,
at Hem.

• This Is the Dutch form of the name generally Latinized into Michaelius.

OF THE State of ^ew York. 41

1626

The Dutch in Brazil.

In 1624, the fleet of the West India Company, under Admiral
Piet Hein, captured Baliia. It had to be abandoned however the
next year, and the Dutch gained no permanent hold until 1630.
Though a Portuguese possession, the conquest of Portugal by
Spain in 1584, made all the colonies of the former nation the
legitimate spoils of War for the Dutch in their War against Spain.

The seat of colonial government was located at the captured
city of Olinda, in the Captaincy of Pernambuco. The city
founded by the Dutch was called Mauritsstad, after John Maurice,
Count of Nassau, (a cousin of the Prince of Orange,) who was
governor of Dutch Brazil from 1636 to 1644. In 1640 Portugal
threw off the Spanish yoke and became again an independent
government, largely by aid of the Dutch Republic. This pro-
duced serious complications in Brazil, and finally the Dutch pos-
sessions there had to be restored to their original owners, Portugal
by a convention in 1661 agreeing to pay to the West India Com-
pany an indemnity of eight millions of guilders (or three million
two hundred thousand dollars). Things had been in great con-
fusion years before this final settlement, which accounts for the
emigration of Dutch preachers from Brazil to Kew Xetherland.

The Dutch Church in Brazil.

1625-1654.

There had already been an attempt to found the French Re-
formed Church in Brazil, for which see the Missionary Histories.
But the Dutch West India Company took Bahia from the Portu-
guese in 1624, and in 1625, Rev. Jonas Michaelius went thither as
minister. The Jesuists, under the Portuguese, had already done
some missionary work in Brazil. !Michaelius left the next year
for Guinea. Other Dutch ministers followed in Brazil, but in

1625

42 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

1637, Count John Maurice, the Governor, wrote to Holland for
eight more Reformed ministers. Eev. Davilus was the first to
learn the language of the natives. Eev. Domine Eiflarius was
eloquent in preaching both in Portuguese and Brazilian, and trans-
lated the Heidelberg Catechism into the Tapuya dialect. Eev.
Frederic Casseber preached at Eeissa. At Olinda and the neigh-
boring villages, the Eevs. Joachim Soller and Johannes Theo-
dorus Polhemius, preached, both in French and Portuguese. Pol-
hemus came to l>lew ISTetherland in 1654, and is the ancestor of
the large and respected family of that name in Xew York and
elsewhere. Eev. Cornelius Poelius (Pool) preached in Tamarica,
and Eev. Samuel Eathclarius, an Englishman, preached in
Paraiba, St. Augustine; and Eev. John Eduardi at Serinhaen.
Two Classes were finally organized here, and even a Synod. The
ecclesiastical records in Holland are full of material, and Dutch
and Latin histories, as well as one or more in German, of Count
John Maurice, abound in Holland. A small Latin History was
purchased by the writer in 1898, and is in the Collegiate Church
Library, New York. See also Dr. Jas. I. Good's " Eeformed
Church in America ", 1899.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 43

THE ADMIKLSTKATION" OF PETEK ]\aNUIT.
1626-1632.

Peter Mirniit was bom in the city of Wesel, on the Rhine, in the
Duchy of Cleves. This city was famous as an asylum for the
persecuted. Being adjacent to the northeastern part of Holland,
myriads of persecuted Hollanders flocked thither, as well as exiles
from England and Scotland. Besides the regular German Re-
formed Church in Wesel, there were also organized there, from
these exiles, large and influential French Reformed, Dutch Re-
formed and English Reformed congregations. Wesel was famous
at this time for its religious and literary activity. Here mingled
some of the choicest spirits of Europe. It was here that the
exiles of the churches of Holland met, in 1568, and adopted their
Presbyterial Form of Church Government.

It was in such a center of intelligence that Peter Minuit was
bom in 1580 of Huguenot parentage. While he generally wrote
his name Minuit, it is sometimes found written Menewee, accord-
ing to pronunciation. He was of robust form, and had dark eyes
and brusque manners. In time he became a ruling elder of the
Walloon or French Reformed Church of Wesel; while his brother-
in-law Jan Huyghens, who subsequently went with him to New
Netherland and was prominent in both Church and State, was a
deacon of the Dutch Reformed Church of Wesel, which some-
times numbered four or five thousand members.

Minuit probably left Wesel about 1624, because the city had
fallen into the hands of the Spaniards. He was, perhaps, specially
fitted to take charge of a colony, for he was a man of sound prin-
ciples and practical tact. He combined the qualities of a Christian,
a merchant and a pioneer; and was therefore well qualified to lay

1626-
1632

44 Ecclesiastical Records

the foundations of Chnrch and State in ISTew Amsterdam. He
was appointed Director of ISTew ISTetlierland by the West India
Company, December 19, 1625, and landed at New Amsterdam,
May 4, 1626. He was careful that seeds, plants, animals and
implements of husbandry should be provided for his colony.

Minuit at once bought the island of Manhattan of the red men,
for twenty four dollars. He always dealt honorably with the In-
dians. He was the actual founder of civil government in !New
Netherland. Business began to flourish as never before. He
opened up correspondence with Governor Bradford of Plymouth,
and proposed commercial reciprocity. He also sent Bradford a
present of sugar and Holland cheese.

Upon the arrival of Domine Michaelius in April, 1628, Minuit
and his brother-in-law Huyghens were at once chosen to be the
ruling elders of the Dutch Church which Michaelius established.
According to researches made in. 1868 by pastor J. D. Sardeman,
of Wesel, Huyghens was deacon of the Dutch Reformed Church
in Wesel in 1612; but Minuit's name was not found in the records
of that Church. It is probable, therefore, that Minuit was elder
of the French Church of Wesel, and that Michaelius was not
exactly accurate in his expression. 'No doubt Minuit was also a
deacon in that French Church before he became an elder, as was
the custom. ISTeither does Minuit's name occur in the records of
the German Church of Wesel. The records of the French Church
are lost. Minuit's name, however, occurs in the civil records of
Wesel on March 6, 1619, as guardian of his sister's minor chil-
dren; and again on April 15, 1625, it is recorded that he had left
for foreign lands. Minuit was recalled in the spring of 1632. In
1638 he returned to America to found the colony of New Sweden
in Delaware. He succeeded, but perished in a West Indian hur-
ricane the same year.

OF THE State of ISTew Yoek. 45

See "Memorial Services in honor of Peter Minuit ",* vdih.
addresses by Kev. Dr. Cyrus Cort and others, April 23, 1895, un-
der the auspices of the State of Delaware. Several errors in
former histories are therein corrected. See also Indexes of O'Cal-
loghan and Brodhead.

Comforters or the Sick.

1626.

While it was the general duty of ministers in the IRetherlands
to visit the sick, yet in destitute fields, or in those too large for
the minister properly to attend to, certain ones, perhaps gen-

• The following Tablet has recently been erected in the Middle Dutch Church,
New York City, 2nd Avenue, near 7th St., to the Memory of Peter Mlnult:

TO THE GLORY OF GOD
AND IN MEMORY OF
PETER MINUIT
FIRST DIRECTOR GENERAL OF NEW NETHERLAND,
A.D. 1626
AND THE FIRST ELDER OF THIS CHURCH,
A.D. 1628.
AN INTELLIGENT AND GOD-FEARING MAN,
WITH GREAT EXECUTIVE ABILITY, AND
ENTIRELY INCORRUPTIBLE. A MAN
NOT SURPASSED IN WISE ADMINISTRATION
OF AFFAIRS BY ANY OF THE LONG LINE OF
STATESMEN AND PATRIOTS WHO, FOR THE
GREATER PART OF THREE CENTURIES HAVE
BEEN THE EXECUTIVES OF THE EMPIRE STATE.

" THE GLORY OF CHILDREN ARE THEIR FATHERS."

" THIS SHALL BE WRITTEN FOR
THE GENERATION TO COMB."

" TELL YOUR CHILDREN OF IT, AND LET
YOUR CHILDREN TELL THEIR CHILDREN, AND
THEIR CHILDREN ANOTHER GENERATION."

ERECTED A.D. 1900.J
BY A SUCCESSOR IN HIS ECCLESIASTICAL OFFICE,
IN DEVOUT RECOGNITION OF THE TRUTH THAT,
" A GOOD NAME IS RATHER TO BE
CHOSEN THAN GREAT RICHES."

t William L. Brower of New York City erected this and other Tablets mentioned
hareaftor.

1626

46 Ecclesiastical Eecokds

1626

erally from the Great Consistory, and especially from the deacons,
were appointed to this duty. There was an elaborate Form pre-
pared for their use, which was formerly printed in all the editions
of the Liturgy, (It was thus printed also in the first English
editions in 1793 and 1815, in this country.) These special officers
read this Form, in whole or in part, to the sick, together ^vith the
creeds. There were two words used to describe these officers,
viz.: Krankenbezoeker and Ziekentrooster. Strictly speaking, the
former means a seeker out, or visitor of the sick — especially
those overtaken suddenly by sickness; while the latter means a
comforter of those who are very sick — especially when nearing
their end. Practically, the two terms were used synonymously.

While many agencies are now devised to relieve the distressed,
and to comfort the invalid, it is 'an interesting circumstance that
the Dutch Eeformed Church, the oldest in the Empire State by
half a centur)', had a unique provision for this very work from the
beginning. With Peter Minuit, the Director General of New
ISTetherland, came over two Comforters of the sick. These were
Sebastian Jansen Krol (or Crol) and Jan Huyck. As yet no ajr-
rangements had been made for a regular clergyman, but his place
was thus partially supplied. The Form which they used consisted
chiefly of consolatory texts of Scijipture. When the Rev. Jonas
Michaelius, the first minister, arrived, in 1628, these two Com-
forters of the Sick, together with Peter Minuit, the Director Gen-
eral, were made the first elders of the Dut<?h Church of New Am-
sterdam, (New York,) and with their appointment the Church
was regularly organized.

In the Charter establishing Patroonships in 1629, and in sub-
sequent similar Charters, it was required of the Patroons that
they "shall particularly exert themselves to find speedy means
to maintain a clergyman and schoolmaster, in order that Divine
Service and zeal for religion may be planted in that country, and
(must) send at first a Comforter of the Sick ".

OF THE State of New York. 47

The Title of this Form is " The Consolation of the Sick; which
is an Instruction in Faith and the "Way of Salvation, to prepare
Believers to die willingly ".

The line of thought which these Krankenbezoeckers or Zieken-
troosters read, in the performance of their duty, was as follows : —

The Form first referred to Man's original creation in righteous-
ness; the fall, and original sin, and the penalty of death, with
many texts of Scripture relating to the brevity and vanity of life;
to the Providence of God, which determines our days; to our
weakness and general sinfulness, and our exposure to the Divine
wrath; and then to the gift of Christ as the Light of the world,
as an atonement for our sins, and through whom we may triumph.
Very many beautiful texts are then quoted about the love of God
to sinners; the Person and work of Christ; His worthiness of our
love, and the duty of prayer, and of faith in Christ, His inter-
cession for sinners is then specially emphasized, and his willing-
ness to save all classes of men. The peace which God gives the
believer in Christ is then referred to, however great may have
been one's sins; and hence the believer's right to desire to be de-
livered from this mortal body and to enter on the glorious inherit-
ance of the children of God. This is again supported by many
delightful texts of Scripture. The benefits of tribulation are then
referred to, and the certainty of the believer's victory; also the
importance of always watching for the change and fighting against
the temptations to which we are exposed. Regeneration and the
fruits of the Spirit are next alluded to, with the resurrection of
the body, and the blessedness of all those who believe in Christ,
and who shall hear his welcome " Come, ye blessed of my Father,
inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the
world ". The form ends with the words — Blessed are they whose
names are written in the Book of Life.

1626

1628

48 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

Comforters of the Sick* continued to be sent to New ISTetherland
for forty or fifty years from 1626, and to the West Indies for a
century or more. To the East Indies they continued to be sent
for a couple of centuries, and they were sometimes there ordained
to the Ministry. This whole matter is elaborately reviewed in
Hofstede, " Oost-Indien Kerk-Zaken ", East Indian Church-Cases,
2 Tols., 1779. Published at Rotterdam, Copy procured for Col-
legiate Church Library, ISTew York, 1898, by E. T. C.

!MlCHAELIUS TO SmOUTIUS.

Rev, Jonas ]\Iichaelius, First Minister of Manhattan, New
ISTetherland, to Rev, Adrian Smoutius, one of the Ministers of the
Collegiate Churches of Amsterdam, August 11, 1628.

• The following Tablet has recently been erected In the Middle Dutch Church,
Hew York City, 2nd Avenue, near 7th St. to the Memory of these first Krankeu-
bezoekers:

IN MEMORY OF

THE KRANKENBEZOEKERS

SEBASTIAN JANSEN KROL

AND

JAN HUYCK

OFFICERS OF THE ESTABLISHED CHURCH

OF THE

NETHERLANDS,

WHO A.D. 1626, CAME HITHER,

IN ADVANCE OF THE FIRST MINISTER

TO PERFORM THEIR SACRED OFFICE

OF MINISTERING TO THE PEOPLE

AND CONSOLING THE SICK.

" THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING

IN THE WILDERNESS."
" BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD WHICH TAKETH

AWAY THE SINS OF THE WORLD."
" COMFORT YE COMFORT YE MY PEOPLE."
" I WAS SICK AND YE VISITED ME."

GRATEFULLY ERECTED BY ONE,
HIMSELF ORDAINED TO THE OFFICE
OF RELIEVING THE POOR
" NOT ONLY WITH EXTERNAL GIFTS. BUT
WITH COMFORTABLE WORDS OF SCRIPTURE."
A.D. 1900.

OF THE State of Xew Yoek.

[First translation by Hon. Henrv C. Murphy, 1858, and care-
fully revised by Eev. Jotin G. Fagg, 1896, one of the pastors of
the Collegiate Church, New York City.]

1628

(Addressed on back.)

Den Berwaerdigen Welgeleerden
ende Godvruclitigen Heere Adi'iano
Smoutio, getrouwen Bedienaer des
H. Evangelii Cbristi in sijne Ge-
meynte, wonende op de Heeren-
gracht, niet verde van het West-
Indiscbe buys tot Amsterdam.

Per Trieud dien God beware.

Tbe Honorable, Learned and
Pious Mr. Adrian Smoutlus, Faitb-
ful Minister of tbe Holy Gospel of
Cbrist in bis Cburcb, Dwelling upon
tbe Heerengracbt, not far from the
bouse of tbe West India Company
at Amsterdam.

By a friend, whom God preserve.

(Sealed with a wafered signet not discernible.)

De Vrede Cbristi.
Eerwaerdige Heere, welbeminde
Broeder inCbristo, guustige Vriend!

Tbe Peace of Cbrist to You.
Reverend Sir, Well Beloved
Brotber in Cbrist, Kind Friend!

Incidents.

De goede gelegenbeyd, die mij nu
voorcomt, om aan UWelEw. te
scbrijveu, en can icli niet laten
voorbij (gaen), sonder bet solve,
volgens mijne belofte te doen.
Ende opdat ick mij in dese com-
muuicatie, van een droevige zake
eerst ontlade, bet heeft den Heere
belieft mij mijne goede parture (die
mij nu over de 16 jaren langb, een
deugtsame, getrouwe ende ganscb
lieftallige jockgeuoot geweest
badde) af te nemen, nadat wij
ruym 7 weken* bier te lande gear-
riveert waxen; ende vynde mij nu
sonder baer gezelscbap ende bulpe,
seer gediscommodeert, met mijne 3
kinderkeus alleene. Docb wat beb
ick te seggen? De Heere selve
heeft bet gedaeu: tegeu welcken
hem niemajid can stellen. Ende
waerom soud ick oock willen,

Tbe favorable opportunity which
now presents itself of writing to
your Reverence I cannot let pass,
without embracing it, according to
my promise. And I first unburden
myself in this communication of a
sorrowful circumstance. It pleased
tbe Lord, seven weeks
after we arrived in this Death of
country, to take from his wife,
me my good paitner,
who was to me, for more than sis-
teen years, a virtuous, faithful,
and altogether amiable yoke fel-
low; and I now find myself* with
three children very much discom-
moded, without her society and as-
sistance. But what have I to sayV
Tbe Lord himself has done this,
against whom no one can oppose
himself. And why should I wish
to, knowing that all things must

* Dit gebeurde dus omstreeks half
JunlJ.

• This happened about the middle of
June (or rather about the last of May?)

Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

wetende dat alle dingen ten goede
moeten helpen dengenen die God
lief hebben. Hope derhalven mijn
cruyce lijdsamelijck te dragen,
ende de couragie, die mij albier In
mijnen dienst sonderlinge "^an
nooden is, niet te laten ontvallen,
door des Heeren genade ende hulpe.
De reyse heeft lange geduyrt,
namelijli van den 24 Januarii tot
den 7 Aprilis, als wij eerst onsen
Toet bier aen land stelden. Storm
ende onweder en bebben wij geen
gebreck gebat, voornemelijcli om-
trent de Barmudes ende de ruyge
custen deser Landen: twelck de
goede vrouwe ende de kinderen
hard viel, docb sy bielden sic nocb
ongelijck beter, soo ten aensien van
zeesiecte als vreese, dan ick wel
verwacbt badde. Ons tractament
te scbepe viel ganscb bard ende
sober, so dat mijn zalige huys-
vrouwe ende kinderen, niet etende
met ons in de cajuyte van wegen
de cleyne ruymte, een arger lot
hadden dan de bootsgesellen selve,
ende dat van wegen enen ondeu-
genden cock, die voornam ben op
alle manieren te plagen: maer in-
Bonderbeyd van den scbipper selve,
dewelcke (boewel ick menicbmael
met alle beleeftbeyd daerover
claegde) hem sulcs int minste niet
aen en trock. om den rabaut*
daerover te bestraffen: nocb oock
selve genicb dinck en gaf, selfs als
sij ganscb qualijck te passe waren,
dat bun conde goed doen, ende
nochtans genoech iu bet scbip was:
gelijck bij oock selve wel genoech
wiste te vynden, om buytens tijds
synen buyk tevullen. Al de deugdt
die hij ons dede, bestond alleen-
lijck in liberale beloften met een
, droncken boofd, op de welcke, als
hij beuuchtert was, niet en volgde

work together for good to them
that love God. I hope therefore to
bear my cross patiently, and by the
grace and help of the Lord, not to
let the com^age fail me which in
my duties here I so especially need.

The voyage was long, namely,
from the 24th of January till the
7th of April, when we first set foot
upon land. Of storm and tempest
which fell hard upon
the good wife and Character
children, though they of the
bore it better as re- voyage,
gards sea-sickness and
fear than I had expected, we bad '
no lack, particularly in the vicinity
of the Bermudas and the rough
coasts of this country. Our fare
in the ship was very poor and
scanty, so that my blessed wife
and children, not eating with us in
the cabin, on account of the little
room in it, had a worse lot than
the sailors themselves; and that by
reason of a wicked cook who an-
noyed them in every way; but
especially by reason of the captain
himself, who, although I frequently
complained of it in the most
courteous manner, did not concern
himself in the least about correct-
ing the rascal;* nor did be, even
when they were all sick, give them
anything which could do them any
good, although there was enough
in the ship: as he himself knew
very well where to find it in order,
out of meal times, to fill his own
stomach. All the relief which he
gave us, consisted merely in liberal
promises, with a drunken head;
upon which nothing followed when
be was sober but a sour face; and
he raved at the officers and kept

* Hij bedoelt den kok.

• He means the cook.

OF THE State of ]^ew Yokk.

1628

dan een suyr gesichte, ende dus
heeft hij mede de beeste gespeelt
tegens de offlcieren, ende hem ge-
stadich aen den wijn gehouden, soo
in zee, als oock voornemelijck hier
liggende in de Riviere (Hudson),
soo dat bij dagelijcx te scbepe ge-
loopeu beeft met een nat seyl ende
berooyt boofd, comende seer selden
te lande in den Raed* ende nim-
mermeer in de publycke Godsdienst.
Wij bebben 't te scbepe al met
stilswijgen verdragen, maer bet
jammert mij, als ick daer aen ge-
dencke om mijner buysrouwen
Tville, te meer omdat se soo gestelt
was, als sij was, niet anders
wetende of sij was swanger van
kynde, ende omdat den tijd soo
cort was, dien sij noch badde te
leven. Ick bebbe in mijne eerste
voyagie* lange met bem gesworen,
jae gelgeert in 6en butte, maer en
wiste nooyt datter sulcken buffel
ende dronckaerd in stack. Maer
doe stond bij onder d'opsicbt van
den Heer Lam, ende nu badd' bij
selve over alles te gebieden. Ick
heb oock aen den Heere Godynf
daervan gescbreven, noodicb acb-
tende dat ment wete.

Onse aencomste was albier aen-
genaem bij alien, ende verbope
door des Heeren genade dat mijn
dienst niet onvrucbtbaer sal wesen.
Het volck is de meeste part al vrij
wat ruycb ende ongebonden, docb
ick bevynde in meest alien, beyde

bimself constantly to tbe wine,
both at sea and especially bere
wbile lying in tbe (Hudson) River;
so tbat be navigated tbe sbip daily
witb a wet sail and an empty bead,
seldom coming asbore to tbe Coun-
cil* and never to Divine service.
We bore all witb silence on board
tbe sbip; but it grieves me, when
I think of it, on account of my
wife; the more, because she was in
such a physical state as she was —
believing herself to be in a delicate
condition — and the time so short
which she had yet to live. On my
first voyage* I roamed about with
him a gi-eat deal, even lodged in
tbe same hut, but never knew that
he was such a brute and drunkard.
But he was then under tbe direc-
tion of Mr. Lam, and now he had
tbe chief command himself. I
have also written to Mr. Godynf
about it, considering it necessary
tbat It should be known.

Our coming here was agreeable
to all, and I hope, by the grace of
the Lord, that my service will not
be unfruitful. The
people, for the most His recep-
part, are rather tion at
rough, and unre- Manhattan-
strained, but I find
in most all of them both love and
respect towards me; two things
with which hitherto the Lord has
everywhere graciously blessed my
labors, and which in our calling, as

* Raed: welUgt de Raad van bestuur
der kolonie, waarin hij mlsschlen, vol-
gens zijne commissie, wat te zeggen
had bij de verdere ten nltvoer brenging
der kolonisatle.

* Werwaarts? naar Rrazilie en Gui-
nea, tusschen 1624 en 1626.

t Welligt bedoelt hij Samuel Godyn,
bij O'Callaghan, 1. 479.

♦ Council: perhaps the Council of the
administration of the Colony, wherein
he, probably according to his Commis-
sion, had a voice in reference to pro-
moting colonization.

* Whither? to Brazil and Guinea, be-
tween 1024-1626.

t Perhaps he means Samuel Godyn,
with O'Callaghan, 1. 479.

Ecclesiastical Records

1628

liefde t'mljwaert, ende oock ont-
sich; twee dingen daermede de
Heere mijnen dienst tot noch toe
allenthalren genadelijck gezegent
heeft, ende die ons in onse be-
dieninge (gelijck UWelEerw. selve
Tvel weet ende bevyndt) sonderlinge
wel te paBse comen om vruclit tc
rerschaffen.

your Reverence well knows and
finds, are especially desirable, in
order to make (our ministry) fruit-
ful.

The Church.

Wij hebben van eersten aen een
forme van een gemeente aenge-
stelt; ende dewljle de Breeder
Bastiaen Crol* seer selden na bene-
den afcomt van 't fort Orangie,
doordieu hem aldaer de Directie
van tselve fort en den handel be-
volen is: soo is goed gevonden twe
Ouderlingen te verkiesen, mij tot
assistentie ende beboorlijck com-
municatie alles wat kerckelijk
sonde mogen voorvallen: denckende
het toecomende jaer soo 't de Heere
toelaet, den enen te laten afgaen,
ende enen anderen in sijne plaetse
te verkiesen uyt een dubbeld getal,
der Gemeynte eerst wettelijk voor-
gestelt. D'een die wij nu gecoren
hebben, is de heer Directeur* selve
ende d'ander de winkelhouder der

From the beginning we estab-
lished the form of a church; and
as Brother Bastiaen Crol* very
seldom comes down from Fort
Orange, because the Directorship
of that fort and the trade there is
committed to him, it has been
thought best to choose two elders
for my assistance and for the
proper consideration of all such
ecclesiastical matters as might oc-
cur, intending the coming year, if
the Lord permit, to let one of them
retire, and to choose another in his
place from a double
number first lawfully Consistory
proposed to the congre- appointed,
gation. One of those
whom we have now chosed is the
Honorable Director* himself, and

* O'Callaghan, 1. 122. Seb. Jansen
Krol was ook volgens Brodhead In 1626
krankbezoeker' op bet elland Manhat-
tans, In 1628 Vice-DIrecteur op fort
Oranje. Br., p. 165, 169, 183, 201, 212,
223.

• Director, Peter Minult or MInnewit,
Tan Wesel. O'Callaghan, I. 100. Brod-
head, 162 en passim tot 32v. Hij zag
zlch In 1631 ontslagen, en stiorf later iu
de Zweodsche kolonie aan de Zuldrlvler,
als haar beschermer. In 1641. Er Is geen
epoor van mlsverstand tusschen hem en
Mlchaellus gevonden, gelijk wel later
tusschen Mlnult's opvolger, Ev. Bogar-
dtis, en den volgenden Directeur der
kolonie, Wouter van Twlller.

• O'Callaghan, i. 422. Sebastian Jan-
sen Krol, was also, according to Brod-
head, a Comforter of the Sick on the
Island of Manhattan in 1626, and Vice-
Director at Fort Orange in 1628. Brod-
head, i., 165, 169, 183, 201, 212, 223.

* Director, Peter Minult or MInnewit,
from Wesel. O'Callaghan, i. 100. Brod-
bi-ad. 1G2, and in various places down to
320. He saw himself dismissed In 1631,
and subsequently died in the Swedish
Colony on the South River, while " Pro-
tector " there in 1641. There has been
found no trace of any misunderstanding
between him and Michaellus, as subse-
quently there was between his successor
Bogardus, and Van Twlller, the uext
Director of the Colony.

OF THE State of New York.

Compagnle, Jan Huygen, zijn
swager, luyden van zeer goeden
getuygenisse, soo vele ick doemaels
vernemen conde; hebbende beyden
wel eer geweest in kerckelijke be-
dieninge, d'eene der diaconye ende
d'ander des Ouderlingschaps re-
spectivelijk in de Duytsclie ende
Fransche Kercke tot Wesel.

Wij hebben in de eerste be-
dieninge des H. Avondmaels (niet
sender groote blijdscnap ende
troost van velen geliouden) gehat
niyn 50 communicanten, soo Walen
als Duytschen: van de welcke een
partije hare eerste belydenisse des
geloofs voor one gedaen hebben,
ende andere hare kerchelijcke at-
testatien verthoont. Andere had-
den ee vergeten mede te nemen,
niet denckende dat hier een ge-
meente geformeert ende opgericht
sonde werden; ende enige die se
metgenomen hadden hebben se in
enen gemeynen ongeluckigen brand
verloren: doch sijn geadmitteert op
goede getuigenisse van andere dien
sulx bekent was, ende oock op hun
dagelijcx goed eomportement; de-
wijle men in een sulcke gelegen-
heyd om een be-ginsel te maken,
alle behoorlijcke formaliteyten soo
naeuwe niet can observeren.

Wij houden des heeren H.
Avondmael eens om de 4 maenden
bij provisie, tot dat een meerder
frequentie des volex anders sal
vereysschen. De Walen ende
Francoisen en hebben des sondaegs
genen dienst anders dan in de
Duytsche tale: want die geen
Duytseh en verstaen syn gansch
weynich. Daer gaet oock een
partije A^alen na 't vaderland,

the other is the storekeeper of the
Company, Jan Huyghens,* his
brother - in - law, persons of very
good character, as far as I have
been able to learn, having both
been formerly in office in the
Church, the one as deacon, and the
other as elder in the Dutch and
French churches, respectively, at
Wesel.

At the first administration of the
Lord's Supper which was observed,
not without great joy and comfort
to many, we had fully fifty com-
municants — Walloons and Dutch;
of whom, a portion made their first
confession of faith before us, and
others exhibited their church cer-
tificates. Others had for-
gotten to bring their cer- Lord's
tificates with them not Supper,
thinking that a church
would be formed and established
here; and some who brought them,
had lost them unfortunately in a
general conflagration, but they
were admitted upon the satisfac-
tory testimony of others to whom
they were known, and also upon
their daily good deportment, since
we cannot observe strictly all the
usual formalities in making a be-
ginning under such circumstances.

We administer the Holy Sacra-
ment of the Lord once in four
months, provisionally, until a larger
number of people shall otherwise
require. The Walloons
and French have no Walloon*,
service on Sundays, French
otherwise than in the service.
Dutch language, for
those who understand no Dutch are
very few. A portion of the Wal-

* This was probably the " Jan
Huyck ", who was the colleague of
Crol, as Krnnkbesoecker, at Manhattan,
In 1026.

Ecclesiastical Records

1628

'tslj dan omdat hare jaren alhler
geexpireert sijn, ofte oock omdat
enige der Compagnie niet seer
dienstich en ziju: sommige wonen
verde, ende en souden blj grooten
regen ofte onweder niet wel con-
nen comen, soo datse selve sulcx
niet raedsaem en connen vyndeu
enigen bysonderen dienst int
Frausche aen te stellen onder een
BOO clyne boopken, ende dat noch
op het onsekere. Evenwel bet
Avondmael werdt ben toegedient in
de Franscbe tale ende op de
Franscbe wljse met een voorgaende
predicatie, die iek in gescbrifte voor
mlj legge, soo lange ick mijselven
de bebooriijcke veerdicbeid niet toe
en vertrouwe.* Isser yet soo in
dese als in andere zaken daerin
UWelEerw. ende de E. E. Broede-
ren des Kerckenraeds (welcker in-
spectie over ons bier d'aldernaeste
Is) noodicb acbten ons te dienen
met enige correctie, instructie ofte
goede advysen, tsal ons aengenaem
Bijn ende wij sullen UWelEerw.
daer voren danck weten: dewijle
wij alle geen ander oogemerck
moeten bebben dan d'eere Godes in
de opboiiwiuge van sijn Couinck-
rijcke ende beboudenisse van vele
zlelen. Ick boude mij soo veel als
doenlijck is binnen de palen mijner
beroupinge, daerin ick mij oock ge-
noechsamelijck geoccupeert vynde.
Ende boewel onse cleyne Raed der
Kercke. bestaende ten boogsten (als
de Broeder Crol bier beneden is)
niet meer dan wt 4 personen, de
alle (mij alleene wtgesondert) oock
politycque bedieningen bebben, soo
verhope ick hocbtans de voorval-
lende kerckelijcke diugen van de
borgerlijcke sorgfuldelijck te onder-

loons are going back to tbe Father-
land, either because their years
here are expired, or else because
some are not very serviceable to
tbe company. Some of them live
far away and could not well come
in time of heavy rain and storm,
so that it is not advisable to ap-
point any special service in French
for so small a number, and that
upon an uncertainty. Nevertheless,
the Lord's Supper was administered
to them in the French language,
and according to the French mode,
with a discourse preceding, which
I had before me in writing, as I
could not trust myself extempo-
raneously.* If in this and in other
matters your Reverence and the
Honorable Brethren* of the Con-
sistory, (at Amsterdam,) who have
special superintendence over us
here, deem it neces-
sary to administer to Subjection
us any correction, in- to minis-
struction or good ad- tors at
vice, it will be agree- Amster-
able to us and we will dam.
thank j'our Reverence
therefor; since we must have no
other object than the glory of God
in the building up of his kingdom
and the salvation of many souls.
I keep myself as far as practicable
within the pale of my calling,
wherein I find myself sufBciently
occupied. And although our small
Consistory embraces
at the most — when Consistory:
Brother Crol is down Michaelius,
here — not more than Crol,
four persons, all of Minuit,
whom, myself alone Huyg'hens.
excepted, have also
public business to attend to, I still

• Namelljk, om voor de vulst in het
Vraascb te prediken.

• That is to preach extempore in
Frenct.

* Kamed near the end of this letter.

OF THE State of j^ew York.

echeyden, opdat elck geoccupeert
blijve met sijn eygen subject.

hope to separate carefully the
ecclesiastical from the civil matters
which occur, so that each one will
be occupied with his own subject

Civil ]\Iattees.

Ende hoewel vele dingen sijn
mixti generis, ende de politycque
ende kerckelijcke personeu malcan-
deren grootelijcx connen dienen,
eoo moeten nochtans te samen
gaende dingen ende ampten niet
vermengt maer ouderdscheyden
werden, om alle verwerringen ende
brodderijen te verhoeden. Ende
ftlsoo den Raedt deser plaetse be-
staet uyt goede luyden, die nochtans
de meeste part eenvoudigh sijn
ende weynich geoeffent in poli-
tycque dingen, soo ist dat ick wel
cleyne swaricheyd maken sonde
hun in enige sware ofte dubieuse
dingen met goede advysen te
dienen. mids dat ick mijselven
eerst enichsins capabel keude ende
daertoe versocht wierde; in welcken
gevalle Ick niet en achte dat ick
yet sonde misbeuren ofte oock bij
yemand in suspitie comen van een
kwaaddoener, often als een die zich
met eens anders doen bemoeit, te
wesen.

Tware mijns bedunkens gansch
oorboir, dat de Heeren Bewyntheb-
bei'en dese plaetse voorsagen met
duydelijcker ende naerdcr Instruc-
tien voor den Regeerders, opdat se
mochten bescheydelijck weten, hoe
sij sicii in alle voorcomende bur-
gerlijcke swaricheden ende gaval-
len hadden te reguleren: gelijck
mede dat mij alhier eens mochten
geworden al sulcke Acta Synodalia,
als in de Hollaudsche Synoden,
600 Particuliere onses quartiers, als

And though many things are
mixti generis, and political and
ecclesiastical persons can greatly
assist each other, nevertheless the
matters and oflBces belonging to-
gether must not be mixed but kept
separate, in order to prevent all
confusion and disorder. As the
Council of this place consists of
good people, who are, however, for
the most part simple and have
little experience in public affairs,
I should have little objection to
serve them in any serious or du-
bious affair with good advice, pro-
vided I considered myself capable
and my advice should be asked;
in which case I suppose that I
would not do amiss or be suspected
by any one of being a busy-body
in other men's matters.* (1 Pet. 4:
15.)

In my opinion it is very expe-
dient that the Honorable Directors
of this place should furnish plain
and precise instructions to their
Governors that they may distinctly
know how to conduct themselves
in all possible public difficulties
and events; and also that I should
have all such ACTA SYNODALIA,
as are adopted in the Synods of
Holland; both the special ones re-
lating to this region, and those
which are provincial and national,

♦ Quoted In Greek.

Ecclesiastical Kecoeds

1628

Provinciale ende Nationale, orer
alle kerckelijcke swaricbeden ge-
stelt zijn, ofte ten minsten die na
het oordeel der E. E. Broederen tot
Amsterdam ons hier aldermeest
zouden connen te pas comen. Ou-
dertusscben soo hope ick, dat de
zaken hier wel gaen sullen, soo wij
slechs aen wederzijden ons beste
doen in alle oprecbticbeyd ende
goeden yver; waertoe gelijck ik
mij van eersten aen ganscbelijek
overgegeven bebbe, alsoo en bebbe
ick oock tot nocb toe door des
Heeren genade geen billijcke oor-
zake om over yemand te clagen.
Ende soo mij bier enige dubiense
dingen van enigen gewicbte sullen
Toorvallen, insonderheid als de
sakeu enich wtstel connen lijden,
soo sal ick mij refereren een der
E. E. Broederen goede ende voor-
sichtige advysen. aen de vrelcke ick
mij alreede ganscbelijek recom-
mandere.

in relation to ecclesiastical points
of difficulty; or at least such of
tbem as in the judgment of the
Honorable Brethren at Amsterdam
Tvould be most likely to be of serv-
ice to us here. In the meantime,
I hope matters will go well here,
if only on both sides we do our
best in all sincerity and honest
zeal; whereunto I have from the
first entirely devoted myself, and
wherein I have also hitherto, by
the grace of God, had no just
cause to complain of any one.
And if any dubious matters of im-
portance happen to me, and es-
pecially if they will admit of any
delay, I shall be guided by the
good and prudent advice of the
Honorable Brethren, (the Consist-
ory at Amsterdam), to whom I
have already wholly commended
myself.

The ^Natives.

Wat aengaet de natie deses
Lands, die vynd ick gansch wild
ende woest, vreemd van alle borger-
lijcke sedicheyd, jae onbeleeft ende
bot als tuynstaken, in alle boo-
sheyd ende godloosheyd gelijck als
gepromoveert, verduyvelde men-
schen, die niemand anders dan den
Duyvel dienen. wesende die Geest,
dien sij op hare sprake Menetto
noemen: gelijck sij mede onder
dien tytel begrijpen alles wat
subtyl ende geestich is ende beyde
men schelijck vernuft ende crach-
ten te boven gaet Sij gaen met
vele tooverijen, waerseggingen,
besweeringen ende snoode consten
om, soo datse bijna in genige
banden ofte sloten en siju te
houden. Sij sijn soo diefachtich

As to the natives of this country,
I find them entirely savage and
wild, strangers to all decency, yea,
uncivil and stupid as garden poles,
proficient in all wickedness and
godlessness; devilish men, who
serve nobody but the devil, that
is, the spirit, which, In their lan-
guage, they call Menetto; under
which title they com-
prehend everything that Their
is subtle and crafty Character,
and beyond human skill
and power. They have eo much
witchcraft, divination, sorcery, and
wicked tricks, that they cannot be
held in by any bands or locks.
They are as thievish and treach-
erous as they are tall; and in
cruelty they are altogether in-

OF THE State of Xew York.

1628

ende verradisch als sij groot zijn:
ende in wreedheyd sijnee gansch
oumenschelijck ende meer dan
Barbarisch ende gaen d'Africanen
daerin al verde te boven.*

lek hebbe dies aengaende aen
versclieydene personen elders ges-
clireven, niet twijfelende of de
Breeder Crol sal daervan aen
UWE. ofte immers aan de Heeren
Bewyndhebberen genoecb gesch-
reven hebben: gelijck oock van het
snoode verraed ende de moorderijre
die de Mahicans aent oppereynde
deser Riviere tegens het fort Orau-
gien voorgenomen hadden,* doch is
bun misluckt door een genadige
bestieringe des Heeren ens ten
goede: de welcke als bet hem ge-
lieft, in dese onnatuyrlijcke men-
schen onversiens natuyrlijcke bewe-
gingen weet te storten om baer
doen te beletten. Hoe men nu
best dese luyden tot de ware ken-
nisse Godes ende des Middelaers
Cbristi sonde connen aenleyden,
is qualijck te seggen. Ick en can
mij selven niet genoech verwonde-
ren wie UWerE. ende velen an-
deren int Vaderland soo vele op
de mouwe gespeldt macli hebben,
belangende de geseggelijckheyd de-
ser lieden, en den goeden aerdt,
de gevoechlijcke principia religionis
ende vestigia legis naturae die bij
haer souden sijn: in de welcke ick

human, more than barbarous, far
exceeding the Africans.*

I have written concerning these
things to several persons elsewhere,
not doubting that Brother Crol will
have written sufficient to your
Reverence, or to the Honorable
Directors; as also of the base
treachery, and the murders which
the Mohicans, at the upper part of
this river, had planned against
Fort Orange,t but, by the gracious
interposition of the Lord, for our
good — who, when it pleased him,
knows how to pour, unexpectedly,
natural impulses into these un-
natural men, in order to prevent
them — they did net
succeed. How these Difficulties
people can best be of their
led to the true knowl- conversion,
edge of God and of
the Mediator Christ, is hard to say.
I cannot myself wonder enough
who it is that has imposed so much
upon your Reverence and many
others in the Fatherland, concern-
ing the docility of these people and
their good nature, the proper prin-
cipia religionis and vestigia legis
naturae which should be among
them; in whom I have as yet been
able to discover hardly a single
good point, except that they do not
speak so jeeringly and so scof-
fiugly of the godlike and glorious

* Hij kon dlt uit eigene ondervindlng,
In Africa opgedaan, getulgen.

* Brodhead spreekt ook hiervan niet:
alleen dat In het voorjaar van dlt jaar
1628, dlgt bij het fort Oranje vljande-
lljkheden waron ultgebroken tusschen
de Mahicans, ook elders Mohlcanen ge-
heeten, en de Mohawks, waarblj de
eerstgenoemden verslageu en verjangd
zijnde, naar Connecticut River geweken
waren. L. 1. 113 en hler onder In het
vervolg des briefs.

• He could testify as to this from hU
own experience, obtained In Africa.

♦ Brodhead does not speak of this;
only that in the spring of 1628, close by
Fort Orange, animosities had broken out
between the Mahicans, elsewhere called
Mohegans, and the Mohawks, so that
the first named, smitten and pursued,
betook themselves to the Connecticut
river. L. 1. 113 and toward the sequel
of this letter.

Ecclesiastical Records

tot noch toe schaers een enich goed
point hebbe connen bemercken,
wtgenomen dat se van de godde-
lijcke ende glorieuse majesteyt
hares Scheppers soo spottelijck
ende versmadelijck niet en spreken,
als d'Africanen wel durven doen.
Doch 't can wesen omdat se van
hem noch soo sekere kennisse niet
en hebben ofte oock wel gansche
gene. Als wij tot bun van God
willen spreken, het schijnt bun een
droom te sijn: ende wij sijn genoot-
saekt dat te doen onder den name,
niet van Menotto dien sij kennen
ende dienen (want dat ware een
Laster), maer van enigen gnooten,
jae den alderappersten Sackiema*
met welcken name sij — sonder
Coningh levende — heten den genen
die over enige hondereen onder hun
hebben te gebieden, die van de
onsen Sackemakers genaemt wer-
den, het welcke sij lieden hoorende
600 sullen sommige beginnen te
grijnen ende het hoofd te schudden
als over een coude fabel, ende
andere om met eeren ende vriend-
schap uyt een sulck propoost te
comen. suUon seggen Orith. dats
goed. Nu. wat middel om dit volck
ter salicheyd te ontginnen, ofte
een heylsame bresse daeronder te
maken? Ick neme verloff om in
dit point wat wijdluftiger met
Uwe E. te discoureren.

Hare tale die het eerste is bij
hun te besigen, dunckt, mij gansch
vreembd. Vele onder ons gemeyne
volck hetense gemeynelijck een
lichte tale die haest geleert is: ick
ben van een andere opinie. Want
degene die hare woorden enigsins
verstaen ende naspreken connen,
die feylen grootelijck in pronun-
tiatie ende radebraken se gelijck

majesty of their Creator as the
Africans dare to do. But it is be-
cause they have no certain knowl-
edge of Him, or scarcely any. If
we speak to them of God, it ap-
pears to them like a dream; and
we are compelled to speak of him,
not under the name of Menetto,
whom they know and serve — for
that would be blasphemy — but of
one great, yea, most high, Sack-
iema* by which name they —
living without a king — call him
who has the command over several
hundred among them, and who by
our people are called Sackemakers;
and as the people listen, some will
begin to mutter and shake their
heads as if it were a silly fable;
and others, in order to express re-
gard and friendship for such a
proposition, will say orith, that is,
good. Now. by what means are we
to make a salutary breach for the
salvation of this people? I take
the liberty on this point of enlarg-
ing somewhat to your Reverence.

Their language, which is the first
thing to be employed with them,
methinks is entirely
peculiar. Many of our Their
common people call it language,
an easy language, which
is soon learned, but I am of a con-
trary opinion. For those who can
understand their words to some ex-
tent and repeat them, fail greatly

• Sacklema, later in de Noord-Ameri-
kaansche werken steeds Sachem ge-
noemd.

* Sackiema; subsequently in North
American works always called Sachem.

OF THE State of Xew York.

de sprake Asdod.* Want dese natie
heeft sware aspiratie ende vele
litterras gutturales die meer in de
kele dan door den mond, tanden
ende lippen geformeert worden,
betwelcke onse popelf ougewent
signde, op sijne wi^'se een groven
slach daerinne slaet ende meynt
sijne dingen noch wonder wel
gedaen te hebben. 'Tis waer, men
can lichtelijck soo vele leeren als
genoech is om te handelen, maer
dit geschiedt bijcans soo vele int
wijsen met duym ende vingeren als
door spreken; het welcke in zaken
van religie soo niet sonde connen
geschieden. Oock soo schijnt het
dat se bare tale voor ons liever
occulteren, dan behoorlijck mede-
deylen, ten sij dan in dingen die
In den dagelijckschen handel te
passe comen; seggende dat het
genoech is dat wij hen daerinne
verstaen connen: ende dan spreken
se noch maer halve redenen. afge-
cortede woorden ende noemen dick-
wils een douzijne dingen ende noch
meer; .iae al Tvat met malcanderon
slechts eenige I'ouwe gelijckenisse
heeft noemen sij dickwils al met
6nen name. In summa 't is een
gemaeckte kyndische tale: soo dat
selfs degene die best van alien met
den Wilden connen spreken ende
In handel seer wel te rechte comen.
nochtans gansch blind staen ende
geljjck als met baeuist sijn, als
slj de "Wilden allene onder mal-
cauderen hooren spreken.

in the pronunciation, and speak a
broken language, like the language
of Ashdod.* For these people have
difficult aspirates and many gut-
tural letters, which are formed
more in the throat than by the
mouth, teeth and lips, to which our
peoplef are not accustomed, and
making a bold stroke at which
they imagine that they have accom-
plished something wonderful. It
is true one can learn as much as
is sufficient for the purposes of
trading, but this occurs almost as
much by signs with the thumb and
fingers as by speaking; but this
cannot be done in religious matters.
It also seems to us that they rather
design to conceal their language
from us than to properly communi-
cate it. except in things which
happen in dai'y trade; saying that
it is sufficient for us to understand
them in that; and then they speak
only half sentences, shortened
Avords, and frequently call out a
dozen things and even more; and
all things which have only a rude
resemblance to each other, they
frequently call by the same name.
In truth it is a made-up, childish
language; so that even those who
can best of all speak vrtth the
savages, and get along well In
trade, are nevertheless wholly in
the dark and bewildered^ when
they hear the savages talking
among themselves.

Hij doelt op Nehemia ilii:24.

t Verwant met gepeupel.

J Baeuis (sic). Kan het ook In ver-
band staan met het Fransche bijv.
naamwoord eebahl?

♦ He alludes to Neh. 13:24: And their
children spake half In the speech of
Ashdod, and could not speak in the
Jews language, . . .

t People — popel, connected with ge-
peupel, — populace, mob.

t rU'wildered — baeuis (sic). Can this
word stand in connection with the
French adjective esbahl?

Ecci:esiastical Records

163S

Wei, of men dan d'oude in haer
weeen llete ende aen den kinder-
kens die noch jongh sijn, begonne.
Tzij alzoo. Maer slj moesten yan
joncks op van haren ouderen af-
gesondert werdeu. jae van hare
ganeche Natie: Want, sender dit.
soo souden se de heydensche grillen
ende duyvelryen terstond soo ge-
went eijn als d'oude, die doch van
gelfs door een rechtveerdich oordeel
Godes in hare herten geknedet sijn
van naturen: soo dat se eens diepe
wortelen gecrengen hebbende door
gewoonte, gansch swaerlijk daer-
van souden sijn aftebrengen. Doch
dese afflonderinge is qualijck te
doen. Want d'oiiders hebben hare
kinderen hertelijck lief, ende souden
eeer noode daeraf scheyden, ende
als het gesohiedt (want men heeft
er al prouve af) soo en sijn d'ouders
nlmmermeer te degen gerust, ende
nemen se vreder steels wijse "wech.
ofte maken dat se van selfs ont-
loopen. Nochtans dies weege mo-
este men uyt. al sonde men enige
costen daertoe aenwenden. om de
kinderen door gaven ende onder
goede beloften met danck ende
wille der ouderen te becomen. om
de selve onder de hand van enich
welervaren ende godsalich school-
meester te bestellen, daer se moch-
ten geoeffend werden, niet alleen-
lijck in onse tale te spreken. te
lesen ende te schrijven, maer oock
voornemelijck in de fundamenten
oneer Christelijcker religie, ende
daer beneffens daer sij niet dan
goede exempelen enes deugtsamen
levens en zagen; raids dat se noch-
tans eomtijds onder malkanderen
hare moederlijcke tale spraken om
de selve niet te vergeten. als ap-
parentlljck een voorneme middel
sijnde om de kenniese der Religie
onder de gansche Natie uytte-
breiden. Ondertusschen en moeste
men niet vergeten den Heere om

It Tvould be vrell then to leave
the parents as they are, and begin
with the children who are stall
young. So be it. But they onght
in youth to be separated from their
parents; yea, from their whole na-
tion. For, without this, they would
forthwith be as much accustomed
as their parents to heathenish
tricks and deviltries, which are
kneaded naturally in their hearts
l)y themselves through a just judg-
ment of God: so that having once,
by habit, obtained deep root, they
would with great diffi-
culty be emancipated Duty of
therefrom. But this instructing
separation is hard the Indian
to effect, for the children,
parents have a strong
affection for their children, and are
very loth to part with them; and.
when they are separated from
them, as we have already had
proof, the parents are never con-
tented, but take them away stealth-
ily, or induce them to run away.
Nevertheless, although it would be
attended with some expense, we
ought, by means of presents,
and promises to obtain the children,
with the gratitude and consent
of the parents; in order to
place them under the instruc-
tion of some experienced and
godly schoolmaster, where they
may be instructed not only to
speak, read, and write in our lan-
guage, but also especially in the
fundamentals of our Christian re-
ligion; and where, besides, they
will see nothing but the good ex-
ample of virtuous living; but they
must sometimes speak their native
tongue among themselves, in order
not to forget it, as being evidently
a principal means of spreading the
knowledge of religion through the
whole nation. In the meantime we
should not forget to beseech the

or THE State of iSTew York.

1628

sljnen zegen te soliciteren met vie-
rlge ende geduyrige gebeden, die
doch dingeu die ongesien sijn, haest
gesien ende gelegen can maken,
die den dooden het leven geeft ende
roupt hetgene dat niet en is als
of het -ware ende daertoe rijck
sijnde in barmharticheyd hem ont-
fermt wiens hij wil: gelijck hij
sich onser ontfermt heeft om sijn
Tolck te wesen, als "wij te voren
nlet ontfermt ende sijn volck niet
en waren, ende heeft ons, als -svij
met een gelijcke sop aller verdor-
Tentheden overgoten waren. afge-
wassen, geheyligt ende gerechtveer-
digt, ons roiipende tot de zalige
kenniBBe sijns Soons, ende uyt de
macht der duysternisse tot sijnen
wonderbaerlijcken lichte. Ende dit
achte Ick soo vele te noodiger als
de toorn Godes ende vloek te
■wnerder is, de -weleke tot noch toe
op dese elendlge natie bevonden
wordt te leggen. Magschien of
hem God noch ten eynde ont-
fermde, opdat de volheyd der hey-
deneu allenskens inconem mochte
ende het heyl onses Godes oock al-
hier gesien mochte werden onder
dese "wilde ende woeste menschen.
Ick hope een sorgfuldige ooge over
dese luyden te houden ende soo
vele van hare tale te leeren als
doenli.ick si.1n sal, ende te prac-
tlzeren op betere gelegentheden
haerder onderwljsinge dan men tot
noch toe heeft connen wnden.

Lord, with ardent and continual
prayers, for His blessing; who can
make things which
are unseen suddenly Prayer,
and opportunely to SovereigTity
appear; who gives of God.
life to the dead; calls
that which is not as though it
were; and being rich in mercy has
pity on whom He will; as He has
compassionated us to be His peo-
ple; and has washed us clean, sanc-
tified us and justified us, when we
were covered with all manner of
corruption, calling us to the blessed
knowledge of His Son, and from
the power of darkness to His mar-
vellous light. And this I regard so
much the moi'e necessary, as the
wrath and curse of God. resting
upon this miserable people, is found
to be the heavier. Perchance God
may to that end have mercy upon
them, that the fulness of the hea-
then may be gradually brought in.
and the salvation of our God may
be here also seen among these wild
savage men. I hope to keep a
watchful eye over these people,
and to learn as much of their lan-
guage as will be practicable, and
to seek better opportunities for
their instruction than hitherto it
has been possible to find.

His Support.

Wat nu mij selven belangt ende
mijne huishoudinge: ick vynde mij
door het verlies van mijne goede
ende behulpsame parture seer
ontrijft ende verlegen. Want miju
twee dochterkens sijn noch cleyn;
dieustmaegden en sijn hier niet te
becomen, Immers gene die men mij

As to what concerns myself and
my household: I find myself by
the loss of my good and helpful
partner very much
hindered and distres- House-
sed — for my two keeping,
little daughters are
yet small; maid servants are

Ecclesiastical Recokds

1628

raden sonde in te nemen: d'An-
goolsche slavinnen sijn oock die-
facbtige. luije ende ontijdige vod-
deu. Den jongbman dien ick met
mij nam. bebbe ick na Pinsteren
■n-edev laten gaen, om dies wille.
dat ick bem buyten'sbuys tot ge-
nicb landwerk en conde besigen
ende binnens buys mij meer be-
swaerde. dan verlicbtinge aen-
bracbte; bij dient nu elders bij de
boeren.

De belofte die mij de Heeren
Meesters der Comp. gedaen bedden
van enige mergens ofte gemeten
lands te doen bebben om mij daerop
te geneeren ende dat in de plaetse
van een vrije tafel die mij anders-
sins toebeboorde, is ganscb nieticb
ende ijdel. Want bare E. E. -^visten
immers selve wel dat albier geen
peerden nocb koeijen nocb arbeyds-
lieden om geld te necomen sijn.
Want elck beeft in desen nocb te
cort ende roept om meer. De costen
sonde ick mij ontsien,* soo de ge-
legenheyd slecbts viele: ende dat
om ons eygen gerijf, al waert
schoon datter geen voordeel op
liepe (beboudens nocbtans dat d'E.
E. Meesters mij scbuldicb blijven
soo vele als de weerde van een
vrije tafel) want bier en is gene
verversscbinge van boter ende
melck etc. te crijgen, boewel bet
tot ganscb dieren prijs vercocbt
(werdt), want de lieden die bet
halen ofte bespreken sijn jaloers
over malcanderen. Dus sal ick den
wynter moeten overbrengen sonder
boter ende andere noodige diugen,
die de schepen niet mede en brengen
om bier verkocbt te werden. Ende
het randzoen dat bier wtgedeelt
■werdt ende booge genoech aenge-
BChreven, is al barde oude cost, ge-

uot bere to be bad, at least none
wbom tbey advise me to take; and
tbe Angola (female) slaves are
tbievisb, lazy, and useless trash.
The young man whom I took with
me, I discharged after Whitsuntide,
for the reason that I could not em-
ploy him out-of-doors at any work-
ing of the land, and in-doors be
was a burden to me instead of an
assistance. He is now elsewhere
at service among the farmers.

The promise which the Honorable
Directors of the Company had
made me of some acres or surveyed
lands for me to make myself a
home, instead of a free table which
otherwise belonged to
me, is void and use- Unable yet
less. For their Hon- to farm-
ers well knew that
there are no horses, cows, or labor-
ers to be obtained here for money.
Every one is short in these par-
ticulars and wants more. I should
not mind* the expense if the op-
portunity only offered, for the sake
of otir own comfort, although there
were no profit in it (the Honorable
Directors nevertheless remaining
indebted to me for as much as the
value of a free table), for refresh-
ment of butter, milk, etc., cannot
be here obtained; though some is
indeed sold at a very high price,
for those who bring it in or be-
speak it are jealous of each other.
So I shall be compelled to pass
through the winter without butter
and other necessities, which the
ships do not bring with them to be
sold here. The ra-
tions, which are given Food,
out and charged for
high enough, are all hard stale
food, as they are used to on board

• Ontsien is hier zoo veel als ge-
troosten.

* Not mind — ontzien, treat gently; is
here the same as getroosten — bear
patiently.

OF THE State of Xew York.

1628

lijck men te schepe plach te ge-
bruycken: oock dickwils niet seer
goed ende noch en can men 't tot
sijnen Tville niet genoech becomen.
Ick begonde vrij Avat stercte te
crijgen door des Heeren genade,
maer door dit harde voedsel van
boontgens, graeuw erwten die hard
genoech zijn, gort, stockvis etc.
sender vele vernieuwinge, doet dat
Ick niet geheel can becomen, ge-
lijck ick anders vrel sonde. De
somer geeft wel yet, maer wat ist
voor yemand die niet en heeft aen
hem selven? De Wllden brengen
oock wel sommige dingen, maer die
gene waren en heeft, als messen,
coralen ende diergelijcke ofte seeu-
wan,* die en can niet te rechte
comen. Ende hoewel de lieden
sulcke dingen verhandelen voor
eerlijcke waren, soo en weet ids
noch niet of het hun al vrij staet
na de wetten der Comp. Ick hebbe
nu wt Holland meest alle noodige
dingen ontboden: ende verhope den
wynter met harden ende schralen
cost noch overtebrengen.

Het land geeft vele goede dingen
tot den leeftocht, maer sij sijn al
te ongereedt ende wild te soecken:
daer moeste beter ordre gestelt
werden, ende luyden sljn die ver-
stand ende gereedschap hadden om
alles in sijn behoorlijck saysoen
optesoecken, te vangen ende bijeen
te brengen: gelijk ongetwijffelt 'al-
lenskens sal geschieden. Onder-
tusschen soo wilde ick wel den E.
E. Heeren Bewynthebberen beleef-
delijck gevraegt hebben, hoe Ick
best de gelegenheyd sal connen heb-
ben om een partije lands te beslaen

ship, and frequently not very good,
and even so one cannot obtain as
much as he desires. I began to
get considerable strength by the
grace (favor) of the Lord, but in
consequence of this hard fare of
beans and gray peas, which are
hard enough, barley, stockfish, etc.,
without much change I cannot fully
recuperate as I otherwise would.
The summer yields something, but
what of that for any one who has
no strength? The savages also
bring some things, but one who has
no wares, such as knives, beads,
and the like, or seewan,* cannot
come to any terms with them.
Though the people trade such
things for proper wares, I know not
whether it is permitted by the laws
of the Company. I have now
ordered from Holland most all
necessaries; but I expect to pass
through the winter with hard and
scanty food.

The country yields many good
things for the support of life, but
they are all too unfit and wild to
be gathered. Better regulations
should be established, as doubtless
will gradually be the case, so that
people who have the knowledge
and implements for seeking out all
kinds of things in their season shall
secure and gather them. In the
meanwhile, I wish the
Honorable Directors Need of
to be courteously en- land,

quired of, how I can
have the opportunity to possess a

• Seeuwan, eene eoort van walvisch-
baard of balein, in den niilhandel
destijds aldaar gebniikolljk en bIJ de
Inboorlingen zeer gewlld. Zle A.v.d.
Donck, Bescher. van Nleuw-Nederlant,
2de dr. Amst. 1656. bl. 56, 57.

• Sccwan — a sort of whale fin or
whale bone, very useful in the barter
of those times, and with the nativea
much In demand. See Vander Donck's
Description of New Netherland, 2nd ed.,
1G5G. 5G. 57.

Ecclesiastical Records

ende mij selven daerop (oock tot
mijnen costen) te geneeren? Want
soo lange hier niet meer van gerief
bij den landlieden te crijgen is ende
ick genoodzaeckt sonde Tvesen tot
hooge costen met vele moeyten ende
peryckel alles wt het Vaderland te
ontbieden ofte hier op dit enckel
sober ende hard rantzoen te leven:
dat sonde mij ende mijne kinderen
gansch slecht bevallen. Ons ont-
breken noch 10 ofte 12 boeren met
peerden, koeijen ende arbeydslieden
naer advenant om onsselven te
bedroopen van brood, suyvel ende
behoorlijcke verversschinge. Want
hier sijn nabij gelegene plaetsen,
die licht sijn te beschermen ende
seer bequaem: die men oock den
Wilden om een geringe snuyster-
inge sonde connen afcoopen, ofte
oock eonder peryckel innemen:
dewijle wij daerop meer dan ge-
noechsame actien op hebben de
welcke nooyt afgedaen en sijn ge-
worden, maer met sulken insicht
altijd gereserveert.

portion of land, and at my ovm ex-
pense to support myself upon it.
For as long as there is no more
accommodation to be obtained here
from the country people, I shall be
compelled to order everything from
the Fatherland at great expense
and with much risk and trouble, or
else live here upon these poor and
hard rations alone, which would
badly suit me and
my children. We Need of
want ten or twelve farmers,
farmers with horses,
cows and laborers in proportion, to
furnish us with bread and fresh
butter, milk and cheese. There are
convenient places which can be
easily protected and very suitable,
which can be bought from the sav-
ages for trifling toys, or could be
occupied without risk, because we
have more than enough shares
which have never been cleared but
have been always reserved for that
purpose.

CoNDITIOJi OF THE CoLONY.

De negotie in de vellen* valt slap
ende dat van wegen een ■ nieuwe
oorloge der Maechibaeys tegen de
Mahicans aent oppereynde van dese
riviere. Daer vallen wreede moor-
derijen tusschen beyden. De Ma-
hicans sijn vluchtich; ende hun
lant staet open, seer vruchtbaer
ende plaisierich: het jammert ons
alleen dat men geen volck, noch
ordre en heeft van de Heeren
Meesters om het selve te besetten.
Men velt hier vele houts om na 't
Vaderland te voeren, maer de
schepen sijn te weynich om vele
te laden. Men maeckt enen meulen

The business of furs* is dull on
account of the new war of the
Maechibaeys (Mohawks) against
the Mohicans at the upper end of
this river. There have occurred
cruel murders on both
sides. The Mohicans Wars,
have fled and their Industries,
lands are unoccupied
and are very fertile and pleasant.
It grieves us that there are no peo-
ple, and that there is no regulation
of the Honorable Directors to oc-
cupy the same. They fell much
wood here to carry to the Father-
land, but the vessels are too few

• Bevervellen.

* The beaver-skins.

OF THE State of I^ew York.

te wynde* om hovit te sagen; ge-
lljck wij oock al enen meelmolen
hebben. Men backt hier stenen
doch slj vallen gansch slecM. Om
calck te branden isser goede
stoffe namelijck oesterscbelpen bij
menicbten. De potascbbrandinge
en succedeert nlet ende de meester
met sijne arbeydslieden sijn ar-
bej'dslleden sijn alle grootelijcx
verabuseert.t

Men is besich met een forteresse
te bouwen van goede bergbstenen,
die niet verde van bier bij menicb-
ten leggen. De Heere bouTre
slechts mede, ende sij de wacbter
op onse muyren. Men siet hier
goede commoditeyt om sont te
maken: want daer sijn gelegene
plaatsen, bet water is sout genoech
ende 'ten onbreeckt niet aen hitte
in den somer. Yoorts wat de
wateren al geven van vele soorten
riscb beyde in zee ende in de
rivieren: wat bet land al beeft van
gevogelte. wild ende bosschagien,
van eerdvruchten, boomvrucbten,
wortelen, gewassen, cruyden soo
om te eten als medicinale ende
met de welcke wonderlijeke curen
gewrocbt conn en werden, soo (sou)
gansch langh vallen om te ver-
halen. ende ick en sonde 't soo
geheel pertinent alsnocb niet con-
nen doen. Uwe E. heeft daer af
ten deele al kennisse gecregen ende
sal wt andere noch meer be-
scheyds connen vernemon. Het
land is goed ende playsiericb, de
lucht is gesond niet tegenstaende
de subyte veranderinge van coude
ende hitte. De sonne is gansch
beet, de wynter fel ende strenge
ende duyrt ruym soo lange als in

to take much of it. They are mak-
ing a windmill* to saw the wood
and we also have a gristmill.
They bake brick here, but it is very
poor. There is good material for
burning lime, namely, oyster shells,
in large quantities. The burning
of potash has not succeeded; the
master and his laborers are all
greatly disappointed. t

Yv'e are busy now in building a
fort of good quarry stone, which is
to be found not far from here in
abundance. May the Lord only
build and watch over our walls.
There is good opportunity for mak-
ing salt, for there are convenient
places, the water is salt enough,
and there is no want of heat In
summer. Besides, as to the waters,
both of the sea and rivers, they
yield all kinds of fish; and as to
the land, it abounds in all kinds
of game, wild and in the groves,
with vegetables, fruits, roots, herbs
and plants, both for eating and
medicinal purposes; and with which
wonderful cures can be effected,
which it would take too long to
tell, nor could I do justice to the
tale. Your Reverence has already
obtained some knowledge thereof
and will be able to
obtain from others Climate,
further information.
The country is good and pleasant,
the climate is healthj-, notwith-
standing the sudden changes of
cold and heat. The sun is very
warm, the winter is strong and
severe and continues fully as long
as in our country. The best rem-
edy is not to spare the wood, of

• Windmolen.

t D. i. vinden zich bedrogen.

* Meulcn te wynde — windmolen, wind-
mill.

t Verabuseert — vinden zich bedrogen
— find themselves defrauded.

Ecclesiastical Records

ouse landen. De beste i-emedie is
geen hout te sparen: want 't isser
genoech. ende sich "wel te deckeu
met ruyge vellen, die men oocli tot
sijn gerief licht can becomen.

Den oogst is Gode loff in de
schuyre ende beter geslaegt dan
ooyt te voren: daer was oock wat
meer toe gedaen dan te voren. De
grond is vruclitbaer genoech om den
arbeyd te beloouen, maer men moet
hem wel suyveren, alle deugt doeu
ende cultiveren. gelijck onse landen
ook vereyssclien. Het lieeft tot
noch toe veel te arger gegaen
omdat vele lieden niet seer arbeyd-
saem en waren ofte oock haren
behoorlijcken nooddruft niet en
cregen bij gebreck van brood ende
toespijse. Dan liet begint nu alles
bet te gaeu ende bet siet nu geheel
uyt een ander ooge: soo de Meesters
slechts goede arbeyders senden ende
op alle dingen ordre geven om hem
met die dingen die dit land selve
geeft ten besten te geneeren.

which there is enough, and to cover
one's self with rough skins, which
can also easily be obtained.

The harvest, God be praised, is
in the barns, and is larger than
ever before. There has been more
work put on it than
before. The ground Harvests.
is fertile enough to
reward labor, but they must clear
it well, and till it, just as our lands
require. Until now there has been
distress because many people were
not very industrious, and also did
not obtain proper sustenance for
want of bread and other neces-
saries. But affairs are beginning
to put on a better appearance, if
only the Directors will send out
good laborers and exercise all care
that they be maintained as well as
possible with what this country
produces.

His Relation to the Church of Holland.

Ick hadde wel voor, ende oock
belooft (te schrijven) aen de E. E.
Broederen Rudolphum Petri, Joan-
nem Sylvium. ende aen D. Cloppen-
burgium, die neffens Uwe E. met
de besorginge deses quartiers was
belastet;* doch alsoo dit langh
sonde vallen, den tijd cort is ende
mijne occupatien voor dees tijd
vele, soo sal Uwe E. gelieven mijne
vriendelijcke ende beleefde groeten-
isse aen hare E. E. te doen ende

I had promised (to write) to the
Honorable Brethren, Rudolphus
Petri, Joannes Sylvius and Domiue
[Joannes] Cloppenburg, who, with
your Reverence, were charged*
with the superintendence of these
regions; but as this would take
long and the time is short, and my
occupations at the present time
many, will your Reverence be
pleased to give my friendly and
kind regards to their Reverences,

• Belastet. Dit was dus door de • Belastet — charged, burdened. This

Noord-Holl. Synodus aau eenige Am-
sterdamsche predikanten opgedragen. —
De in den tekst genoemde predikanten
waren alien destljds nog te Amsterdam
werkzaam; Sylvius en Ti'lglandius sints
1610, Petri sints 1612, en Cloppenburg
siuts 1621.

duty had been thus committed to cer-
tain Amsterdam preachers by the Synod
of North Holland. The preachers named
in the text were all at this time active
In Amsterdam; Sylvius and Triglandius
since 1610, Petri since 1612, and Clop-
penRurj; hince 1621.

OF THE State of New York.

1628

mij te excuseren. mids dat ick
haren schuldenaer blijve, orn mijne
belofte de naeste reyse (soo God
wil) te vervullen. Wilt oock mijne
hertgrondelijcke groetenisse doen
aen E. D. Triglandium ende voorts
alle de Broederen des Kercken-
raeds, aen welcke alle ick voor dees
tijd niet noodich en achte bijscon-
derlijck te schrijven, als die van
mij gemaeckt werden participanten
in dese tijdingen, ende geerne
tevreden sijn uyt Uwer E. hand
geaest te werden. Soo 't Uwer B.
gelegen sal zijn ofte yemand der
E. Broederen om herwaerds aen
mij een letterken te schrijven van
dingen daeraen mij enigsins mochte
gelegen zijn: het sonde mij (bier
levende in een woest land, buyten
alle tgeselschap van onse orden)
gansch vermakelijck sijn. ende een
spore om den E. E. Broederen, van
alles dat bier sonde mogen voor-
vallen, des te vlijtiger overte-
schrijven. Docli vooval en dient
niet vergeten dat mijne hertelijcke
groete geschieden aen Uwer E. be-
mlnde huysvrouwe ende swager
dewelcke mij niet dan alle vriend-
schap ende deugt (oock boven mijne
weerde) bewesen hebben. Soo daer
yets ware waerin ick hen ende
Uwer E. wederomme conde dienen
ofte gratificeren, het sonde mij van
herten lief zijn ende ick sonde mij
in genige dingen willen te nooden
maken.*

Hiermede dan eindigende. ende
mij selven in Uwer E. gunste ende
godsalige gebeden tot den Heere
bevelende:

Eerweerde Welgeleerde Heere,
beminde Br. in Christo ende goed-
gnnstige vriend,

and to excuse me, on condition that
I remain their debtor to fulfill my
promise — God willing — the next
time. Will you, also, give my sin-
cere respects to the Reverend
Domine Triglandius, and to all the
Brethren of the Consistory (at Am-
sterdam) besides, to all of whom I
have not thought it necessary to
write particularly at this time, as
they are made by me participants
in these tidings, and are content to
be fed from the hand of your
Reverence. If it shall be conveni-
ent for your Rever-
ence or any of the Correspond-
Reverend Brethren to ence.

write to me a letter
concerning matters which might be
Important in any degree to me, it
would be very Interesting to me,
living here in a wild country with-
out any society of our order, and
would be a spur to write more as-
siduously to the Reverend Brethren
concerning what may happen here.
And especially do not forget my
hearty salutations to the beloved
wife and brother-in-law of your
Reverence, who have shown me
nothing but friendship and kind-
ness above my deserts. If there is
anything in which I can in return
serve or gratify your Reverence, I
shall be glad to do so, and shall
not be delinquent In anything.*

Concluding then herewith, and
commending myself to your Rever-
ence's favor and to your holy pray-
ers to the Lord.

Reverend and Learned Sir, Be-
loved Brother in Christ, and Kind
Friend:

♦ Beteekent
sehieten?

dit: willen te kort

♦Willen te nooden maken: — Thia
means — to be willing to fall short —
in nothing.

1623

68 Ecclesiastical Records

Soo wll ick Uwe E. ende alien Heartily commending your Rev-
den uwen den Almogenden God in erence and all of you to Almighty
genaden tot een langduyrige voor- God, to continue health and pros-
spoed ende gesondheyd ende tot perity, and to eternal salvation, by
een eeuwige zalicheyd van herten His Grace,
bevolen hebben. From the island of Manhatas in

Wt het Eyland van Manhatas New Netherland, this 11th day of

desen lln Augusti Ao. 1628, in August, Anno 1628, by me, your

NieuTV-Nederland, bij mij Uwer E. Reverence's very obedient servant

in Christo gansch dienst willige. in Christ.

JONAS MICHAELIUS. JONAS MICHAELIUS.

E-Ev. Jonas Michaelius.

Froin Van der Aa's Biograpliical Dictionary. — Michaelius,
Jonas, cousin (neef) of the following, born in 1577, probably at
Hoom, allowed himself to be inscribed as a Member of the Uni-
versity (Academie-burgher, or citizen of the University) at Ley-
den. He became pastor at Nieuwbokswoude in 1612, and at Hem
in 1614. Ten years later in 1624, he sailed vnth the fleet of Piet
Heyn, to San Salvador in Brazil, where he had been appointed
as the permanent minister. The next year, when we (the Dutch)
had to vacate again this strong point, the Reformed minister left
also with the Dutch. In 1625, or in the beginning of 1626, we
find him laboring in Guinea, at the fort St. George del Mina,
(d'Elmina). In 1627 he returned to the Fatherland. In Janu-
ary, 1628, he sailed with his wife and three children to iSTorth
America and became the first minister of the Dutch Reformed
Church at Manhattan or N"ew Amsterdam, subsequently called
l^ew York. Thence he wrote on August 11, 1628, an important
letter to Adrian Smoutius, minister in Amsterdam. This letter
was communicated by Mr. Bodel ISTijenhuis to the Archives
(Archief) of Profs. Kist and Moll, Part I, pp. 365 et seq. It
seems that about the year 1633 he returned again to the Father-
land or removed as minister, to Virginia.* In 1637 and 1638

• This Is plainly an error in Van der Aa. There could have been no reason for
his going to (the present state of) Virginia, where there were no Dutch; but the
term Virginia is frequently employed, as inclusive of New Netherland. The extracts
given below in this work abundantly show this. See such extracts. See also Henry
C. Murphy's remarks on Rev. Jonas Michaelius in Col. Docs. N. Y. ii. 759-761.

Seal of the Ouassis df Amsterdam, AnopTKn 163S.

An open Bible with an Olivo Branch lying upon it and with the words " Veritas ct
Pax " encircling it and the word " Jehovah " in Hebrew letters, over the Bible.

Photographed from a wax impression on a letter of tlio Classis written in 1772 in
which they grant independence to the Reformed Churcli in America.

OF THE State of 'N'ew Yoke. 69

he is again met with in the jSTetherlands, and was again recom-
mended bj the Classis of Amsterdam to the Directors of the
West India Company.

See J. Hoornbech, Sorg en Raad aang. de Evangelie-prediking
in Oost en West Indie, 's Gravenh. 1732 (achter W. Hogerwaarts
Afscheidsreden tot de gemeynte op Batavia, bl. 53, 55; M. Veeris,

The following Tablet has recently been erected In the Middle Dutch Church,
New York City, 2nd Avenue, near 7th St. to ReT. Jonas Michaellus.

TO THE GLORY OF GOD

AND IN MEMORY OF

THE REVEREND JONAS MICHAELIUS

THE FIRST MINISTER OF THE DUTCH REFORMED CHURCH

IN AMERICA.

Who, A.D. 1628, organized, in New Amsterdam, this Church, when " full fifty
communicants, received the Lord's Supper — not without joy and comfort to many."

From this " beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ the Sou of God," this Church
has " continued steadfastly In the apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in brealjiug
of bread and in prayers."

" Mid toil and tribulation.

And tumult of her war,
She waits the consummation

Of peace for evermore;
Till with the vision glorious

Her longing eyes are blest.
And the great Church victorious

Shall be the Church at rest."

1628

ERECTED, A.D. 1900.

Note on John Michaellus, cousin of Rev. Jonas Michaellus, who was the first
minister in New Amsterdam.

Michaellus, Johannes, or Michielsz. Jan, called also Johannes Michaellus Kerati-
nus, (Horn), after his birth place Hoorn, was a pupil of Beeckman, and preceptor of
the third class at the Illustrious School at Dordrecht. He lived during the first
half of the XVIIth century, and was, in his day, a philosopher not without renown,
as well as a Greek, Latin, and Dutch poet. His bosom friend and brother in arts,
John van Someren, secretary of the " Chambre-mie-partic," (a Chamber of Rhet-
oric^ and Pensionary (or Corporation Counsel) of Nymegen, somewhere calls him
•' Magnus Philosophus ". His " Llbellus de Oculo, seu de naturn visus "; his " Dla-
logus de aeternitate ", Dordrechti, H. Essaeus, 1645, 12 mo.; and some philosophical
and mathematical treatises, which were never published, would have given him a
right to this title. Of his Greek muse, we possess as a specimen, only a " Te-
trastichon ", among the poemata at the back of the aforesaid Llbellus; of his Latin
muse there are more at hand, such as " Carmina Sacra "; " Elogla "; one entitled —
"Virgo Dordraceua "; anotlier, " De Continlbus 70 pagls Dordrechtum clrcumja-

1628

YO Ecclesiastical Eecobds

Reg. r. K Holl. bl. 318; v. d. Aa, Aardrijksk. Woordenb. D.
viii.) bl. 92; vooral Bodel iSTijenhuis, t. a. p.

Adrianus Smoutius.

!N'ote on Kev. Adrianiis Smoutius, to whom Rev. Jonas Michaelius
addressed his letter in 1628.

For many years Rev. Adrian Smoutius had borne an active part
in the controversies between Calvinists and Arminians. In 1606
he was without charge. Previously, he had been pastor of the
church of Rhoon, a village a few miles south of Delftshaven, but
across the river Maas. Under the lead of an older minister, a
pastor at Rotterdam, he came into conflict in 1606 with the magis-
trates of that city on account of their tolerance of Arminians.
On July 20, 1613, he was summoned before the States for a
seditious publication. He was condemned to live at 's Gravesande,
which is south of the Hague and west of Delft, and to remain

centibus inundatione liorribile submersis ". [This refers to the great flood of 1477,
when the Biesborch was formed.] Of his Dutch poems we possess only a tragedy
entitled, " Julius Caesar ofte Kaisermoorders ", — Emperor murderers, or Regicides,
Dordrecht, H. van Esch, 1645, 12 mo. This pleased the poet van Someren so greatly
that he composed on it an " Epitymblon ". He wrote poetry also after the style
of Huyghens and Hooft, as is evident from a certain poem of his, written in the
style wherein these, as well as Tesselschade and Anna Roemer Visschers, (two
sisters), J. van Brosterhuyzen, G. R. Doublet, and others, have written.

He also composed a few Latin verses (to be placed) under the likeness of John
van Beverwyck.

Under his own likeness, by Joshua Offermaus. are two lines by Brey: under an-
other are these, by van Someren:

" Wat oyt het prachtigh Griekenlandt,

En Rome vol van wysheyt vant,

Dat schuylt hier in dit deftig hooft,

Wiens naem geen sterflickheyt en dooft."
(Whate'er the splendid land of Greece,

And Roman wisdom found t' increase.
This hides here in this stately head.
Whose name oblivion need not dread.)

The same poet composed an Epitymblon in obltum lectissimae foeminae Jacobae
Michaelius, V. Kal. 1644 — (Month not given.)

Michaelius died August 3, 1646. See Hoeufft, Paru. Belg. p. 174; van Someren,
Uysp. der Vem. passim.; Schotel, Gesch. Lett, en Oudheidk. Avoudst. bl. 99; Bijdr.
tot de Gesch. v.d. Geest en Wereldl. Kleed. D. I. bl. 57; 111. school, bl. 82-84, 225.—
From A. J. van der Aa's Biographlsch Woordenboek.

OF THE State of Xew Yoke. 71

there until further orders. But in 1617 he went to Amsterdam
in defiance of orders, but he had enrolled himself as a citizen, as
a precautionary measure.

In 1617 a few bright spirits in the literary life of the Capital
had formed an " Akademie " for the encouragement of litera-
ture, among whose members was Vondel, the famous poet. But
this " Academy ", says Jonckbloet, with its poets, found in
domine Smout a vehement antagonist, not so much on literary
grounds, as because these gifted minds occupied themselves
mainly in satirizing the prevailing clericalism of the day. Smout
signally failed in " speaking the truth in love ". He was so vio-
lent and unmeasured in his denunciations that Burgomaster Hooft,
the father of the poet and historian, once asked him, " if he
could point to any author who could equal him in slander and
vituperation ".

He was again complained of because of an attack on a pastor
of Rotterdam whom he charged with being a follower of Arminius.
He, however, appealed to his privilege as a citizen, which would
have compelled the aggrieved party to prosecute him in Amster-
dam, which he did not care to do. In August, 1618, he was
permitted by the States to visit his sick and aged mother at Rot-
terdam, on condition that he announce his arrival to the Burgo-
masters, and pledge himself to keep the peace. He was allowed
to stay two weeks, but if detained longer, he must give notice
to the Burgomasters and obtain permission for a longer stay.

With the meeting of the Synod of Dort, 1618-19, Calvinism
l)Ccamo triumphant. In November, Smoutius was still at Rot-
terdam, but not as an exile. The decree, banishing him from
Rotterdam and Schiedam, was rescinded. He even visited the
Synod of Dort, with letters to the clerical and political delegates
from Rotterdam. He then became pastor at Overmass, a hamlet
across the river Maas, and opposite Rotterdam. In Wagenaar's
Description of Amsterdam, ii. 143, we read that, " as the twenty
second minister, called to the Collegiate churches of AmBterdam
in 1620 from Overmaas, he remained until January 7th 1630,

1628

72 Ecclesiastical Records

when he withdrew from that city to Rotterdam, and died in 16-i6 ".
This is mildly expressed. In Amsterdam he pursued the same
intolerant course against all opponents of Calvinism. In 1622
a couple of Arminians were elected to the municipal government
of Amsterdam. Much to the disgust of Smoutius, they began
soon to be allowed some religious privileges. From 1619-1625
public worship had been forbidden to them. Smoutius was fore-
most in denouncing this leniency. He declared that the election
of Arminians to the Magistracy and the recall of Hugo Grotius
was " admitting the Trojan horse ". At his instigation and that
of others, the conventicles of Arminians were attacked, furniture
destroyed, and personal violence experienced. When the Burgo-
masters called upon the Prince of Orange for troops to quell these
disturbances, Smoutius declared that officers and men, who were
thus compelled to protect Arminians, were discharged from their
oath of allegiance to the Prince, because that oath bound them
only to defend the true' religion, and not that condemned by the
Synod of Dort. Some acted on this advice and were cashiered.
The Calvinists attacked the Council. Smoutius denounced the
magistrates from the pulpit, and held up the soldiers who had
listened to him, as models. Summoned before the Burgomasters,
he denounced them to their face, comparing them to Rehoboam.
The riot continued, until on January 7, 1630, he was ordered
to leave Amsterdam before sundown. A canal boat was placed
at his disposal, and he departed. This circumstance as well as
the name of Smoutius are commemorated in verse by that prince
of Dutch poets, Joost Vondel:

" No Papist and no firebrand here

Their baneful trade may ply;
The packet-boat's at hand for those

Who raise Sedition's cry,
Like Smout and Kloppenburg "*

* Geen Paep geen stokebrand mag hier den wervel draeien;

De tochtschult leit gereet, voor al die oproer kraeien,

Als Smout, en Kloppenburgh; wien nu het harte breekt,

Zoo dlk by in den Briel voor zee paer voren preekt. — Hekeld, page 199.

OF THE State of ITew York. Y3

1628

Kloppenburg, one of the ministers mentioned in the letter of
Michaelius, was banished at the same time and for the same reason.
Smoiitius subsequently accepted a salary from the Council that
banished him. He died at Rotterdam in 1646.

His plain Dutch name, in full, was Adriaan Jorisson Smout.
He must have been a man of ability to have been called to Am-
sterdam.

See Dr. Daniel Van Pelt's Article, Christian Intelligencer,
October 13, 1897. See also Jan Wagenaar's Amsterdam, 3 vols.
Dutch, Vol. i. 481, 510-513, with references to authorities. Tran-
scripts, covering many years, concerning Smoutius, were made
by Rev. E. T. Corwin, in 1898, from the Minutes of Synod of
North Holland. These are in the Sage Library, New Brunswick,
N. J. They have been translated.

Notes on the other Ministers mentioned in the letter of
Michaelius, 1628.

Rev. Joannes Cornelius Silvius was the eighteenth minister in
the Collegiate churches of Amsterdam. He was called there from
Sloten to the Gasthuis, (Hospital) in 1610, and in 1622, to the
churches. He died 19 November, 1638.

Rev. Jacobus Triglandius was the nineteenth minister in Am-
sterdam. He was called in 1610 from the church of Stolck^v;)'ck,
and in 1634 became professor of Theology at Leiden, where he
died on April 11, 1654.

Rev. Rudolphus Petri was the twentieth minister in Amster-
dam. He was called from the church of Saanredam in 1612 to
the church of Amsterdam, and died on the 4th of June, 1649.

Rev. Johannes Kloppenburg was the twenty fourth minister in
Amsterdam. He was called from Heusden in 1621; in 1630 he
became the minister at Brielle; and in 1640, professor of Theology
at Harderwyck, and in 1644, Professor of Theology at Fransker.
He died in 1652.

1628

Y4 Ecclesiastical Records

Sykod of Noeth Holland, at Amsterdam.

1628, Ang. 15 et seq.
Article 20, English Synod.
Toiiching the 3rd G-ravamen of (the Classis of) Amsterdam,
concerning the opposition to the pretended English Synod,
touched on in Art. 24 (of this year) : There is opened up, in this
topic, the subject of the English Synod in South Holland, about
which silence has been maintained. Under this Synod, therefore,
(reference to) their (English) Synods may be omitted. The
Deputies ■were ordered to keep a watchful eye that the name of
said (English) Synod be omitted, as heretofore.

Article 51. (East and West Indies.)
In relation to (lit. occasion of) Church Government in the East
Indies: It was resolved that all those who shall be hereafter
sent, as preachers or sieckentroosters to the East or West Indies,
must have from the respective Churches and Classes, which send
them, special calls, in conformity with the examples of (the
Classis of) Amsterdam and Enckhuysen. This matter has been
particularly urged upon the correspondents, (from the other
Synods), especially upon those of Groningen, and they have ac-
cepted it.

Furthermore, the said Church-Order, as the same was sent
hither from India, was brought before Synod by the Eev. Jacob
Laurentius, minister at Amsterdam, coming from the hands of
the Directors of the East India Company. The offer was made
by the said Company, that if anything should be inserted or modi-
fied in the said Church-Order, if it were done with their cog-
nizance, it would be approved by them. This Church-Order hav-
ing been read, at the request of the respective correspondents,
(of the other Synods), it was resolved, to have the same communi-
cated by the Deputies of our Synod to those respective corre-
spondents; and that copies be allowed them, and that the same

OF THE State of 'Nbw York. 75

shall be brouglit to the next ensuing Synod, with notes and
amendments. Such action will then be taken as seems proper.

Pateoons.

1629, June 7.

Freedoms and Exemptions granted by the West India Company
to Patroons in JSTew ITetherland, for the purpose of planting
colonies. — Col. Docs. K Y. ii. 551-7.

1629, June 7. In reference to religion.

XXVn. The Patroons and colonists shall in particular, and in
the speediest manner, endeavor to find out ways and means
whereby they may support a Minister and Schoolmaster, that
thus the service of God and zeal for religion may not grow cool
and be neglected among them, and they shall, for the first, pro-
cure a Comforter of the Sick there. — Col. Docs. IST. Y. ii. 557;
Laws and Ordinances of New Neth. 9.

Synod of ISTorth Holland, at Hoorn.

1629, Aug 20, et seq.

Article 13. Instrument of Contract for Ministers going to the

East Indies.

The contents of Article 15, treating of the instrument (act) of
contract, was further recommended to the brethren, in order that
it may be put into practice; especially in those localities where
there are Chambei-s, (of the East and West India Company,) in
reference to ministers wdio are sent to the East or West Indies.

Article 17. English Synod.

As far as concerns Art. 20: the Deputies presented as their
report, that no English Synod was to be held this year; and they
remained enjoined in this matter, as heretofore, to exercise dili-
gence that the (sessions of the) said Synod should henceforth be
omitted.

1629

76 Ecclesiastical Records

Art. 19. Care of the Churches under the Cross.

The Brethren Deputies asked to make some report as to
Art, 27: Speaking of the care of the Churches under the
Cross, in Flanders and adjoining quarters, they declared, that
thev had found a capable person, who had heen ordained by the
la^dng on of hands, after evidences previously ascertained of
his fitness; and that he had been sent thither, furnished with a
proper letter of commission.

Art, 35. Church Regulations for the East and West Indies.

In reference to Art. 51, referring to the Church Regulations
of the East and West Indies: The delegates of the Classis of
Amsterdam inform the Synod, that the ministers and siecken-
troosters going from Amsterdam to the East Indies, are sent in
conformity with the regulation contained in this article; that
the Directors of both the East and West India Companies gave
perfect satisfaction to the members in this particular. As re-
gards the notes on the Church-Order of the East Indies, prout
in actis : The Deputies from the corresponding Synod of Overys-
sel stated, that some notes had been drawn up by them; and that
the same had been communicated, by means of the respective
Deputies of Synod, as expressed in the acts of their Synod; and
had been briefly taken ad notam by this Rev, Synod, to be ex-
amined more fully at a later time. Likewise some things were
handed over by the Deputies of the Classis of Amsterdam, which
had been sent from the East Indies, touching " Church Regula-
tions for the East Indies ", These were read, in further com-
munication, to this Synod, in order to ascertain the mind and
decision of the Synod thereon.

First: The question was asked, whether it were advisable,
and whether it could be understood as approved, in the case of
children whom they do not as yet find to be fit for baptism and
whose parents are heathen, that a blessing and confirmation

OF THE State of j^ew Yobk. TY

1629

might be used, with the laving on of hands, instead of baptism.
It was learned from the Acta handed in that this had already
been done. The Synod having given heed, in the fear of God,
to this matter, it was decided and understood, that what was pro-
posed, ought not to be done. Such a practice was not Christian,
and was not in conformity with the Word of God. It should not
be done, especially, because of its effect. Adoption into the
Christian Church in such a way, would produce evil consequences,
and could in no sense be justified by the example of Christ's lay-
ing his hands upon the children of the Jews; inasmuch as those
children were partakers of the covenant. Therefore, instead of
such a confiinnation and blessing, the children should be diligently
instructed in the fundamental doctrines of Christianity.

In the second place, at the suggestion of the delegates from the
C'lassis of Amsterdam, the question was taken up, whether the
English mode of responsive reading and singing, could be per-
mitted, as edifying, to the Church in the East Indies, where wor-
ship is conducted in the Malay-Japanese, (Malees Japons.) This
point, having been maturely considered by the Synod, the Synod
is of the opinion, that the following is most expedient in refer-
ence to this particular matter: Inasmuch as the Church of the
East Indies is altogether one mth the churches of our land, they
should conform themselves to the Church of this land: Because
no(t only where the worship is in Dutch, but even where it is
conducted in the Malay and Japanese (Maleesche en Japaneesche)
languages, a marked difference is offensive. In case the officers
are convinced that the reading aloud would be very useful among
the heathen, the Synod thinks that, quite as suitably, an entire
Psalm might be read continuously for instruction and edification,
whether in prose or rhyme. This could be done as the rulers
and officers of the Church there might consider the most edif^dng
way for the church there; but as for reading line by line alter-

78 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

1629

natively, the sense often depends upon the preceding — (line be-
ing correctly read.)

Whereas, in the same Church Regulations of the East Indies,
mention is made of still another method of blessing and confir-
mation, employed -^ith baptized children of ten or eleven years:
therefore, the Synod, after having properly given heed thereto,
deems it best and advisable, although the custom, in itself, is
harmless, that this confirmation by the laying on of hands be
omitted on account of its evil tendencies toward superstition. The
Synod thinks that the confirmation should be accomplished by in-
struction in the principles of Christian doctrine. Accordingly
the Church of the East Indies shall conform itself to the custom-
ary way of doing in the Reformed Churches in this land. Mean-
while the Synod commends the excellent and praiseworthy care of
the Churches of the East Indies, by their officers, in the propa-
gation of the Christian religion, and the education of youth,
exhibited in these particulars.

IQQO Patrooxs, 1630.

Ereedoms and Exemptions granted by the States-General, ex
plenitudine potestatis, to all persons of condition, as Patroous in
New Netherland, for the purpose of planting colonies, etc.

In reference to religion we find the following:

28.

The Patroons shall also particularly exert themselves to find
speedy means to maintain a Clergyman and Schoolmaster, in
order that Divine Serv'ice and zeal for religion may be planted
in that country; and send, at first, a Comforter of the Sick thither.

30.

Their High Mightinesses shall exert themselves to provide the
Patroons with persons bound to service, who shall be obliged to
serve out their bounden time, in all obedience, for their board and

OF THE State of New York. 79

clotking only, whicli being done, on bringing to tbis country a
certificate tbereof from tHe Patroons or tbeir Commissaries, such,
persons shall be here restored to their former state and freedom.
(Vagabonds and outcasts, who live on alms, and in idleness and
crime, are hereby meant.)

31.
In like manner, the Incorporated West India Company shall
allot to each Patroon twelve black men and women out of the
prizes in which ISTegroes shall be found, for the advancement of
the Colonies in ISTew IvTetherland.

33.

All private and poor people (onvermogen personen) are ex-
cluded from these Exemptions Privileges and Freedoms, and are
not allowed to purchase any lands or grounds from the Sachems
or Indians in ISTew jN^etherland, but must repair under the juris-
diction of the respective Lords Patroons. — Col. Docs. IST. Y. i.
99, 100.

1630, Oct. 1st et seq.

Synod of North Holland, at Enckhuyzen.

Art. 7. Preachers for the East and West Indies.

It is understood that the 13th Article, referring to the sub-
scription by preachera going to the East and West Indies, is
being observed.

Art. 11. The English Synod.

As to the 17th Article, relating to the English Synod, it remains
as before, for the vigilant supervision of the Deputies.

Art. 17. Church-Order in the East and West Indies.

On taking up the 35tli Article, referring entirely to the Church-
Order of the East and West Indies: It is understood that the

1630

80 Ecclesiastical Records

inj-unction, Avith the advise of this Synod, was sent over by the
Church of Amsterdam, according to the requirement in the afore-
mentioned Article. There was also read a letter from the
Ecclesiastical Assembly, at Batavia, on Java-Major, dated i!^o-
vember 23, 1629, to this Synod, Also one of the same contents
was sent to the Synod of South Holland. In these advice is
asked, in reference to the matter of the laying on of hands; in
reference to a fixed rule, in the sending of ecclesiastical persons
and sieckentroosters ; and in reference to the transmission of our
annual Synodical Acta, to aid them in the government of their
churches. The first has been acted on before. In regard to the
second, it has been resolved by the Seventeen to allow a rule to
be enacted by the several churches. In regard to the third, it
was resolved to cause the Deputies of our Synods to transmit to
the churches of the East Indies, annually, the substance of our
Acts, so far as they might be serviceable to these churches. (This
was all done, in those days, by transcription.)

Art. 26. Sieckentroosters for the East and West Indies.

III. Whether the Sieckentroosters who are sent to the East
and West Indies, as well as to Guinea, ought not to subscribe to
the Confession, the Catechism, and the Canones Synodi Nationalis
lately held at Dordrecht? Answer: Yes; and that the respec-
tive churches where there are Chambers (of the East and West
India Companies) shall pay proper attention to this matter.

Art. 28. Office of Sieckentrooster.

Questio particularis Classis Amstelodamensis : Whether the
Sieckentrooster's office is not a purely ecclesiastical office; and
that a member of the church cannot accept of it until he has had
a previous ecclesiastical call? Answer: Yes.

OF THE State of !^^EW York. 81

1631

Art. 36. Order of Extracts.

It is found ad\dsable that henceforth the extracts from the
respective S^niods be so registered inter acta of onr Synod, that
the resolutions adopted thereon in matters of importance can at
once be ascertained.

Synod of ISToeth Holland.
1631.

Art. 8. English Synod.
The matter of the English Synod Art. 11, remains in terminis
prout in actis.

Art. 13. Church-Order in the East and West Indies.

As to the 17th Article, bearing in summa, on the Church-Order
of the East and West Indies, it was resolved, in conformity with
the resolution of the Sjmod of South Holland, to request the
Assembly to act on the church affairs of the East Indies.

EVERAEDUS BOGAEDUS.* 1632

Eirst Extract from Minutes of the Classis of Amsterdam.

1632, Junl 7. 1632, June 7.

Everardus Bogardus, die voor Everai'dus Bogardns, who was

siekentrooster is geweest In Guinea, formerly a Comforter of the Sick

heeft syne testimonla naar den in Guinea, presented his Testl-

Classis gepraesenteert, dewelcke monials to the Classis, which are

seer goet syn; en dtuirby versoeckt very excellent. He then requested

van den Classis peromptoir geex- to be examined by the Classis per-

amineert te worden, welck ver- emptoir, (finally, for ordination),

soeck hem is toegcstaen, en sal which request was granted him.

toecomen Maandach geexamineert Next Monday he will, accordingly,

worden van D. praesidie; met Con- be examined by the Rev. President,

rado Clevio, die oock goede ge- together with Conradus Clevius,

tuygenisse overgeleveert heeft. iv. who has also handed in good testi-

22. monials. iv. 22.

• He matriculated in the Leydeu Unlversltj-, July 17, 1G27. as a student of Letters.
He was then twenty years of age, and was therefore born In 1G07, and was of the
Tillage of Woerdan. The Leyden General Catalogue shows 22 other students of the
Latinized name of " Bogardus ", and more than 40 of the name of Bogart or Bogard.
See " Album Studlosorum Acadamiae-Lugduno-Batavae " 1575-1S75, published by
Martinus Nljhoff, at the Hague,

1632

82 Ecclesiastical Kecords

Bogardus and Cleviiis.

1632. JunI 14. 1632, June 14.

Everardus Bogardus heeft een Everardus Bogardus treated a

propositie gedaan over de woorden proposition (preached a sermon) on
Pauli, Gal. 5:16, en is daarop tot the words of Paul, Gal. 5:16. —
examen togelaten worden. Con- Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall
radus Clevius. die met hem sonde not fulfill the lusts of the flesh —

geexamineert worden, and was thereupon admitted to the

en beyde mogen tot den H. dienst examination. Conradus Clevius

gepromoteert worden. iv. 23. who was examined with him

and both are to be promoted (or-
dained) to the Holy Ministry, iv.
23.

1632, Aug. 17 et seq.

Synod of ISTorth Holland, at Alckmaer.

Art. 10. English Synod.

The matter of the English Synod, Art. 8, in regard to -which
nothing has as jet revealed itself, remains further recommended
to the Eey. Deputati Sjnodi.

Art. 37. p. 19. Generalia, extracted from the Acts of the Synod
of Utrecht, Anno, 1631.

Offices of Minister and Schoolmaster.

It -was requested of the States of (by?) Utrecht, that the Minis-
ters of the English Church in this land, be subjected to the
Church Regulations; and particularly to all Eegulations in use in
Utrecht.

That some alumni of the (University of) Utrecht be sent to
France and England, so that having become expert in the use
of the French and English languages, they may minister to the
French and English churches in this land.

Art. 38. Ministerial Changes.
^ In the Classis of Alckmaer:

Called: Peter Serooskerke, in de Koogh, on the Texel.

Samuel Echtenius, at Warmanhuysen.

OF THE State of j^ew York.

1632

Transferred: jSTicholas Joliannis, from Schoorl to Sluysduynen.
Abraham Jacobi, from Huysduynen to Sclioorl.

Died:

Removed:

Died:
Removed :
Entered:

Died:
Arrived :

Removed:
Entered :

In the Classis of Haarlem:
Rev. Samuel Ampsingh, Minister at Haerlem.
Leonard Todinaens, from Wormer to Delft.
Booritius Silema, from Oostzanen to Schiedam.

In the Classis of Amsterdam.

Rev. Rolandius, Minister at Amsterdam.
Rev. John Bantius from Waverveen to Diemen.
William Henricides, at Waverveen.
Evexardus Bogardus, sent to New ISTetherland.
Conrad Cleyems sent to Pharna bruck.

In the Classis of Hoorn.

John Adriaensse, Minister at Hanwart.

John Goethals, Minister at Schellinck houwe.

In the Classis of Edam.

Cornelius Lemannus, from Broek to Bois-le-Duc.
Cornelius Lettingh, installed at Oosthuysen.
Maurice Hantius, called from End in Friesland, to
the church of Broek in Waterland.

8-i Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

THE ADMINISTEATIOISr OF WOUTEE YA^^T TWILLEE.

1633-1647.

Note from Brodhead as to his arrival, and the arrival of Do-

mine Bogardus.

Van Twiller arrived at Manhattan in April, 1633, having sailed
on the Companv's ship " Soutberg ", of twenty g*uns, with a mili-
taiy force of one hundred and four soldiers. He had married a
niece of Van Eensselaer, and had been employed by the Patroon
to ship cattle to his colony. Such were his recommendations. A
Spanish caravel^ the St. Martin, was captured on the voyage. Eev.
Everardus Bogardus, and Adam Eoelandsen, the first schoolmaster,
came over with Van Twiller. — Brodhead, i. 222-3.

Note from O'Callaghan as to the arrival of Domine Bogardus.

After referring to the members of the Council of Director
Van Twiller, he says : " Claes Jacobsen van Schagen acted as
overseer at Eort Amsterdam, at which place the Eev. Everardus
Bogardus officiated as minister of the Gospel.*

Synod of North Holland, at Haarlem.

1633, Aug. 9, et seq.
Art. 9, p. 5. English Synod.
In regard to Art. 10. The Eev. Deputati reported their doings
in the prevention and stopping of the English Synod.

• Hoi. Doc. 11., 88; Ix., 187; Alb. Rec. ii., 328, GG, 31, 57. The earliest mention
I find of Rer. E. Bogardus Is In Alb. Rec. 11., where reference is made to a letter
from him to Van Twiller, dated 17th June, 1634. It is to be presumed that he came
•ut with that Director General. He is the first clergyman of whom we have any
mention in New Netherland. Where he came from originally, I have not been able
to ascertain, but his brother, Cornelius Willemsen Bogaerdt, resided at Leyden, in
South Holland, In 1647-8. Possibly he, also, might have been from that place. He
married, about 1637 or 1638, Annetje, relict of Roeloff Jansen, of Masterlandt, the
daughter of Tryn Jansen, midwife at Amsterdam, and a connection, by marriage,
Of Govert Lookermans, surgeon Hans Klerstede, and Pieter Hartgers. The Rev.
Mr. Bogardus was proprietor of a tobacco plantation on the island of Manhattans,
which he rented, in 1639, on shares, to Richard Brudnel.— O'Callaghan's History of
New Netherland, Vol. i. 142.

OF THE State of IN'ew York. 85

And the same are enjoined hencefortli to keep a watchful eye,
go that no abuses against the order of the churches here in this
land may creep in.

Art. 33. Preachers exercising the practice of medicine.

II. The question was asked, whether heretofore it had not
been decided, that ministers should not undertake to act also in
the capacity of physicians; that nevertheless the custom increas-
ingly continues ; that those who are in the pastorates of churches
aesume to themselves also the practice of medicine. The ques-
tion, therefore, arises, whether this present Synod ought not to
take action, to maintain its former resolution in reference to this
matter, and to enforce it.

Answer: That the previous resolution is sustained; that is,
that each preacher keep himself within the limits of his calling;
and, moreover, that the matter be recommended to the supervision
and discretion of the respective Classes and churches, which are
hereby enjoined to execute this action, each within its o^\ti borders.

The First Church Building in 'N'ew Amsterdam.

1633.

In the mean while, the authorities at Fort Amsterdam were actively engaged plan-
ning various forts and buildings, suitable to the growing trade and wants of the
country. Orders were Issued for the thorough reconstruction of the principal fort at
New Amsterdam, to which place was now attached the privilege of " staple right,"
whereby all masters of vessels trading along the coast were obliged to unload at
this port, or pay, in lieu, certain fixed duties. It was determined to build a guard-
house and a small barrack for the soldiers within that fort, and near it, on the East
River, a church for general worship,* with a dwelling and stable adjoining, for the
use of the Rev. Mr. Bogardus; a residence for the Honorable Mr. Gerritsen; a new
bake house; and a small dwelling " for the midwife." An appropriate mansion was
ordered to be raised, " on the plantation," for the Director-general; on farm No. 1,

* The site of this ancient church, (the first ever erected in New Netherland,) Is
determined by an entry in Alb. Rec. x., .^5, anno 1656, as follows: " The house,
lot, and appurtenances called ' the old church,' standing and situate on the East
River, next to the alley which lays betwixt the house of Attorney General Van
Tlenhoven and this house, and opposite the house of Mr. Hendrick Kip, are ordered
to be sold to the highest bidder." Hendrick Kip lived, in 1665, in Bridge street. —
Paulding's New Amsterdam. Speaking of this church. Judge Benson saye, (Hist.
Mem. 34,) " The site of the first church is perhaps not to be now further ascertained
than as a piece of ground once called the Dude Kerck, (old church,) and afterwards
the house of Allard Anthony, lying between Customhouse street (the portion of
Penrl street between Whitehall and Broad streets) and Bridge street, and fronting
on Broad street." [Now known as 100 Broad st.]

1633

1631

86 ECCLESIASTICAI, RECORDS

a barn, dwelling, brewery, and boat house, " to be covered with tiles: " a goats'
stable " behind the five houses," besides dwellings for the smith, the cooper, and
the corporal; and several mills, one of which was to be adapted for grinding corn.
"An elegant large house with balustrades, and eight small dwellings for the people,"
were directed to be raised at Fort Orange; two houses at Pavonia; and one larg*
house in Fort Nassau on the South River. — O'Callaghan's History of New Nether-
land, Vol. i. 135, 156.

Synod of North Holland, at A^isterdam.

1634, Aug. 14, et seq.

Art. 55. Under Ministerial changes, occur among manv items,

the following:

Classis of Edam:
Entered: Domine Johannes Bocardns, at Warder.

Olassis of Alckmaer:
Entered: Joannes Megapolensis, at Wieringerweert.

1635, Aug. 14, et seq.

Synod of !N'orth Holland, at Hoorn.

Art. 7. Printing of the ITewly Translated Bible.

It was reported by the Deputies of Synod, that the re^-ision
and the translation of the Old Testament, whereof, see in Actis
4, has now been completed; and that the revision of the Xew
Testament had been brought down to the Epistle of James; also
that good progress had been made in the printing and correcting
of proof, of the same; that the proofs are examined three times;
and that there is no doubt that the same will be published next
March. Therein the Synod expressed its pleasure. The Depu-
ties remain charged, in conjunction with the Deputies of the
Synod of South Holland to give careful attention to the correct
printing of the same.*

• This l8 the version which came Into general use In New Netherland for the next
century and a half.

OF THE State of IsTew Yoek. 87

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Johannes Theodorus Polheim.

1635, Dec. 3rd.

There appeared in Classis the Eev. John Theodore Polheini
(Polhemus,) formerly a preacher in the Palatinate; (then subse-
quently at) Meppel, in Overyssel, and later, again in the Palati-
nate; but on account of renewed persecution, he was forced to
leave (the latter field) a second time. He requested that he might
be appointed a minister in the West Indies, (America). Accord-
ingly his testimonials from both Meppel and Wieten were read
by the Deputies on Indian Affairs, who also mad© report thereon.
The Assembly resolved, to appoint the said individual, as soon as
possible, to that field, through the instrumentality of the Deputies,
iv. 66.

Church in Virginia,* [Xew Xetherland.]

A letter was read from the Consistory in Virginia, (New
Netherland,) making the request, since their minister (Bogardus)
was about to return to the Fatherland, that their congregation
there might be provided with another pious person. The Depu-
ties on Indian Affairs will greet the Directors of the West India
Company thereupon, iv. 67.

Lubbertus van Dincklagen.

1636, April 7th.

Lubbertus van Dincklagen formerly ficare, (schout-fiscaal, legal
officer) of New Netherland, handed in to the Assembly (of Classis)
a lengthy paper, containing an accusation against Everardus Wil-
helmus Bogaert (Bogardus.) minister there. It referred to his
bad government of the Church, as well as his conduct and walk.

• The general name " Virginia " Is often used, especially In early times, as refer-
ring to the whole American coast. In a certain Index, Vol. 37, Mlchaelius is re-
ferred to as " late minister to Virginia."

1635

1636

88 Ecclesiastical Records

It was resolved that the said paper be referred to the Brethren
on Indian Aifairs, (to be by them) read and examined. This was
done by their Eeverences, and they have briefly explained the
contents thereof to the Assembly (of Classis) ; bnt since the minis-
ter is yet in jSTew Xetherland, the brethren resolved to postpone
further action until his return, iv. 71.

Committee to draft Articles for the Colonial churches.

1636, April 7.

Also certain brethren were commissioned by the Assembly
to draw up certain Articles and Orders of (government for
the Indian churches). The brethren commissioned for the
said duty v.-ill have to regulate (these churches) hereafter. The
Articles shall be draAvn up by lie v. President, Rev. Jacobinus
Lauristius, Rev. Rudolphius Petri, Rev. Hennannus Antonideus,
and Rev. John Bantius ; and the said brethren shall bring in these
Articles at the first Classical gathering, that they may be ex-
amined by the same. iv. 71; xxxix. 19.

Acta Classical ia:

Regarding the Churches in the East Indies and West Indies, and

in other regions.

1636, April I7th.
Deputati ad res ludicas."

The Rev. Goldorpius is released from the care of the Indian
Islands. This burden he has borne for two years, and is thanked
for his services. The number of the Committee was now en-
larged by the addition of two brethren of Classis from without
(i. e., outside the city of Amsterdam), iv. 75; xxxix. 19.

• See second item under April 7, 1636. It might tiave been well to have copied
the names of the " Deputati ad res Exteras " (or " . . . ad res Indicas ", or
" • • • ad res Maritimas ",) as they were variously called, as a portion of this
Committee was chosen anew each year, — especially as they were the official cor-
respondent^ with all the colonies: but as it would have considerably Increased the-
size of this worli, they were omitted.

OF THE State of ISTew York. 89

Acts of the Deputies. [May 5, 1636.]
Regulations relating to East India and West India affairs, etc.,
devised by the Deputies of the Classis appointed therefor, April
7, 1636. (See Acts of Classis, iv. 71.)

I. Of the Ministers.

1. The person shall present himself before the Classis, and
having exhibited proper certificates as to doctrine and life, shall
be examined in Plena Classis. Such a Classis shall be called on
extraordinary occasion.

2. In case a person should "wish to present himself in mnter
time to the Brethren of the Deputies, when no extraordinary
Classis is generally held, these Brethren shall then communicate
with one another about the case, and decide whether it be neces-
sary to call an extraordinary Classis for the purpose.

3. A similar footing shall be maintained mth candidates —
(proponenten).

4. The laying on of hands and ordination shall be done at
a meeting of the Classis, if in any way possible; otherwise, if the
time and occasion require it, the Deputies shall request all the
ministers of Amsterdam, together with an elder of the same
church to meet with them, and this business shall be transacted
at such a gathering.

II. Of the Siecken-Troosters,
(Comforters of the Sick).

1. The Siecke-Troosters must present themselves, as far as
is practicable, before the Classis. The Classis must endeavor
to have a good supply of tliese on hand, and shall decide whicli
out of all of them shall firet be recommended by the Deputies to
the Companies.

2. The examination of the Siecke-Troosters shall be conducted
by the Brethren Deputies, who shall bring in a report thereof
at the next Classis.

1636

90 Ecclesiastical Kecords

in. Of their Presentation to the Directors [of the East and
"West India Companies.]

The ministers, proponents, (candidates or licentiates,) and
siecke-troosters shall be presented and recommended by the two
oldest Deputies, one from the city (of Amsterdaan), and one from
outside the city.

TV. Of their Instructions.

The Instructions of the Ministers Candidates and Siecke-
Troosters shall be written by and in the name of the Brethren
Deputies, and signed by two of the oldest of them, and also by
the elders of the Church of Amsterdam; and the Forms hitherto
in use be resumed at the next ensuing Classis.

V. Of the Receiving and Answ^ering of Letters.

1. The letters coming from the East and West Indies, etc.,
etc., addressed to the Classis, shall be opened immediately upon
their receipt by (bij) the Deputies. They shall indicate their
contents, whenever required; and shall also make report thereof
at the next meeting of Classis, and hand over the letters
themselves openly to each of the members. (Or hand over each
of the letters, etc.)

2. When the Classis has taken action on all the matters
reported by the Brethren Deputies, or on all that is contained in
the said letters, the Deputies shall then write out the said resolu-
tions in forma, as they were adopted in Classis. When these
have been again read and approved in Classis, they shall be signed
by the Deputies as before, namely, by those previously mentioned,
and thus be dispatched to the churches of the East and West
Indies,- for which they are intended.

3. Letters relating especially to either of the Companies, and
coming from any of the churches of any of the provinces, and
addressed to the Classis shall be opened as the others above al-
luded to, and held by the Deputies.

or THE State of New Yoke. 91

VI. Of the Schoolmasters.
In case any Schoolmasters shall be sent to any of these foreign
fields, the same course shall be pursued with them, (or, lit,
therein the same footing shall be maintained,) as with the Siecke-
Troosters mentioned above.

Addendum.

[East and West India Companies. — Record Books.]
Besides these ordinary affairs, if something else should occur
that ought to be brought before one of the chambers, respec-
tively, of either the East or West India Companies, or before
one of the Assemblies, respectively, of the XVII or the XIX, or
any special orders (are issued) — these shall remain (stand) at
the disposition of the Classis to render the appropriate seiwice,
and to depute such members (to carry it out) as shall be approved
by the Classis.

In conclusion the Committee ad hanc instructionem (deem it)
necessary and expedient, that all the Acta, and actitata resolu-
tions — all those which refer to East Indian and West Indian af-
fairs, etc., be recorded separately in a book* specially made there-
for. Therein also, at the beginning, shall be copied the Forms of
Instructions for Ministers, Candidates and Siecken-Troosters,
which shall now be ratified by the Classis. xxxix. 1, 2.

Form of a Call to Ministers for the East and West Indies.

1636, Juno 7th.
Eev. Rudolphus Petri drafted the Form of the Call, for such
ministers as are to be sent to the East or West Indies, to Guinea,

• This book Is Vol. XXXIX, (IG.'iS-lG^S.^ in which the Acts of the CInssis, rclnting
to tlie foreign churches, are transcribed from their Vols. IV and V; and the Acts of
the Deputies are also found therein. References are given In these Extracts, as
herein presented, to both sets of volumes. There Is said to have been a volume pre-
ceding this volume XXXIX, (which is lost,) according to an Index of the Archives
made in 1880. If there was such a volume, which is not altogether clear, it prob-
abiF ran from 1G15 to 1635. The next volume of these Extracts, etc., is numbered
XXVI, (1648-5.")); and the next Is XIX, (1655-1705). The peculiarity of this number-
ing will be treated elsewhere. The numbering was not done until after the closina;
of the Old Archives, In 1816. Vol. XXXVII is an Index only to Vol. XXXIX. as
Its contents prove.

1636

92 Ecclesiastical Records

etc. The Form proposed was accepted as final, (permanently, for
good,) by the (Classical) Assembly, and incorporated by liim into
a (book*) as aforesaid, iv. 76; xxxix. 20.

Acts of the Deputies.
June 4, 1636.

Copy of a call for Preachers going to the East or "West Indies.

Whereas it is proper, so far as is possible, that the glory of
God, and the salvation of the people should be promoted, in all
regions and localities where the people may be scattered, or where
they may go to pursue their divers kinds of business:

And to this end religious gatherings ought to be established
and maintained, with the pure preaching of God's Word, the
lawful administration of the Sacraments, the public calling on
the name of the Lord, and whatever else belongs to regular wor-
ship: that thus the Lord may be honored, that believers may in-
crease in the saving knowledge of Christ, and in the true faith,
and so be improved in their actions and conduct, unto salvation:
and also that those who are alienated from religion may be led
thereunto: and whereas the condition of (the East Indies, or the
West Indies, or Guinea, or Moscow, etc.) requires that (one or
more) pious and well qualified persons be sent thither, in the
capacity of a lawfully called minister, who shall perform in such
a place all the functions of a minister: and in order that the
fonn of a church and church government, may be established
there, in , according to the Word of God, and con-
formably to the excellent usages of the Reformed Churches here
in this land, and may be maintained: Therefore w0, the Min-
isters of the Divine Word, and Elders of the Church of Christ,
belonging to the Classis of Amsterdam, in the fear of the Lord,
and after calling upon the name of God, and with the approval

• See fuller description of this Volume, XXXIX, and of the Archives of the
ClasBis, generally, in Introduction.

OF THE State of IjTew Yoek. 93

of the Messrs. Directors of (the East India Company, — or the
West India Company, or the N'egotiators of the Moscow Trade,
or the Directors of the Greenland Company, as the case may be)
have called, and by these presents do call

the Rev. and God-pleasing N. N. the Rev. and God-pleasing N. N.

, late minister at who after previous and

whose praiseworthy certificates due examination, and questioning

from the church of in the upon the principal points of Chris-

Classis of have been tian Doctrine; and having given

shown unto us, and who has him- sufficient evidence of piety of life;
self also appeared before us and having ascertained his posses-
sion of the necessary gifts and
qualifications for presenting the
Word of the Lord unto the en-
lightenment of men; and having
previously subscribed the Nether-
lands Confession of Faith, the
Christian Catechism, and the Can-
ons of the National Synod of Dort:
have solemnly ordained by the lay-
ing on of hands,

and we do now by these (presents or acts) set him, the Rev.

, well-beloved of God, apart, in order, whether on

water or on land, or while imder way, and especially when ar-
rived at his destination, to preach God's Holy Word, as embraced
in the Scriptures of the Old and E'ew Testament; to proclaim to
men, in God's name, repentance towards God, and reconciliation
with Him through faith in Jesus Christ; to administer the Sacra-
ments — Baptism and the Supper — which the Lord instituted as
seals of his grace; to lead the Church of Christ in public prayers;
and in conjunction with the Elders and Deacons, after the pre-
scription of the Apostle in 1 Timothy 3, and in Art. 1: (.-Vrts.
22-24 of 1619): and, with the advice and assistance of these

(Elders) to regulate and maintain brotherly love, by

good discipline and order, all in accordance with God's Word and
in conformity with the Confession of the Netherland Churches
and the Christian Catechism. We request of all those to whom
these presents shall be shown, and unto whom our said Brother

1636

94 Ecclesiastical Eecokds

shall come, that they will be pleased to recognize him as a law-
fully called Minister; to hold him in honor far his office and
work's sake; and to assist him with all their power, that he may
administer his office unhindered and with joy, to the magnifying
of God's holy name, and the conversion and salvation of many
souls.

The Almighty God, who hath called him to this office, enrich
him more and more with all needed gifts of his Holy Spirit;
bless his labor abundantly to the glory of his name, and the con-
version of many souls ; and when the Chief Shepherd of the sheep
shall appear, bestow upon him the imperishable crown of glory.
Thus done in our Classical Assembly, within Amsterdam,
, xxxix. 3, 4.

Forms for Candidates, Comforters of the Sick and Schoolmasters,
going to the Indies.

1636, June 7th.

The rorms for Candidates, Comforters of the Sick, and School-
masters going to the Indies, were read to the (Classical) Assem-
bly, and approved by the same; and they were recorded in a
volume, (xxxix. 3-9.) iv. 78; xxxix. 22.

Acts of the Deputies.

June 7, 1636.

1. Call and Letter. Copy of Instructions for Proponents
(Licentiates) going to the East or "West Indies.

Whereas, by reason of the (frequent) navigation at the present
time to far distant lands, it is in the highest degree proper and
necessary, that persons sound in doctrine and pious in conduct
should be appointed to instruct the people in the doctrines of the
truth, out of the Word of God, and admonish them to true piety;
to offer the public prayers at appointed times and otherwise; to
comfort those in difficulty or in sickness, and particularly at the
approach of death: — Therefore the Classis of Amsterdam, with

OF THE State of jSTew Yoek. 95

the consent and approval of the Hon. Messrs, Directors (of the
East or West India Company, Directors of the Greenland Com-
pany, Traders to Moscow, etc.,) have resolved to send thither as

Proponent the Rev. and Godly .... jST N : And in

order that the same may be known as such by every one, and
that he may know how he shall have to conduct himself in this
oJBfice of

Therefore is this Credential given to him, and this Letter of
Instruction, and he is required to maintain the following point?
in accordance therewith:

First: He shall carefully observe public prayers on shipboard.
mornings and evenings, before and after meals, particularly at
religious gatherings, and also under other circumstances as oc-
casion may require.

Secondly: Both at sea and on land, he shall console and in-
struct out of the Word of God, those in the extremity of death,
as well as others who are sick, or who may be distressed by their
necessities and difficulties. Also, particularly must he earnestly
admonish every one, as occasion requires; and especially must he
warn against cursing and swearing, and the thoughtless misuse
of God's Holy Name.

Thirdly: He must be allowed on the Lord's Day and on other
proper occasions, to deliver sermons out of God's Word, for the
instruction, admonition, comfort and further enlightening (or
easing) of the people. K he be detained on the island of Ceylon,
he must give himself to the ser\'ice of the seminary there, or
where ever else his sacred office may be required.

All of these duties the said shall perform in

the best manner possible, ^nd so commend his office by a Christian
and pious walk, that he may edify those among whom he lives b\
speech and deportment; but he must not assimie anything else
that belongs to the ministerial office, under any pretext whatever

Tlius done by us the Ministers of God's Word and Elders, be
longing to the Classis of Amsterdam on this ....... day o1

16. . . xxxix. 5.

1636

96 Ecclesiastical Records

June 7, 1636.

2. Copy of a Call and of a Letter of Instruction for Sleeken
Troosters (Comforters of the Sick) going to tke East or West
Indies, etc.

Whereas, it has been found necessary, for the success of True
Religion and Divine Worship, and for the benefit of those who
enter into the employ of the jN'etherlands Companies, in connec-
tion Trith theii" regular sailing services for the purposes of trade
canded on with far distant lands, — that the true knowledge of
God should be introduced not only among the blind heathen, btlt
that the ships should be provided with Siecken-Troosters (Com-
forters of the Sick) who should accompany these expeditions for
these purposes: and whereas, IST. IST. has offered his services, for
the pui-poses indicated, to the Classis of Amsterdam: Therefore,
the said Classis, having previously sought infonnation, and upon
testimonials from others, has admitted said person to an exami-
nation, to ascertain his fitness : and said person, having been found
qualified, was, upon the report made hj said Classis, set apart as a
Siecke-Trooster (Comforter of the Sick), with the consent and
approbation of the Honorable Directors (of said Company;) and
by these presents, he is commissioned in such capacity to the
(East Indies, West Indies, etc., as the case may be,) with the fol-
lowing instructions:

First: He is to instruct, admonish, and comfort the sick and
ill, out of God's Holy Word, every one according to his neces-
sity, and as occasion permits.

Secondly: At appointed times, and on other proper occasions
he is to read, in connection with the .singing of Psalms, some
chapters from God's Word; and also some good sermons from the
Decadier Bullinger's Ursini Catechismus; or from some other
books written by some minister of the true Christian Reformed
Church, -udth suitable remarks; and he is to begin and end aU
such services ^vith prayer.

OF THE State of JSTew Yoek. 97

Thirdly: He is to lead and serve the people when assembled in
an orderly manner, with prayers, every morning and evening;
and also before and after meals.

Fourthly: He is also diligently to instruct the ignorant in the
faith, especially out of the Word of God; and also earnestly at
every opportunity, to admonish sinners to penitence and to the
leaving off of their sins, by holding before them the fearful judg-
ment of God, warning them faithfully of their danger of per-
dition; he is especially to oppose, in every possible and proper
manner, all cursing, swearing, and profane abuse of the dear
ISTame of the Lord, as well as all indecent language ; he is also to
comfort and strengthen apparently discouraged ones, as circum-
stances may require.

And even as the said ]^. IsT. is directed always to conduct him-
self in compliance with and according to these instructions, and in
such a way that he never arrogate to himself, beyond these duties,
under any pretext whatever, anything which properly belongs
to the ministerial office: — So he, on his part, has sacredly prom-
ised to regulate himself by these instructions, and to conduct him-
self agreeably and usefully, and to continue in the exhibition of
a pious life, to walk worthily in this his calling and office.

Therefore, these open letters are given to him, both for his
own guidance, and as his credentials on his contemplated journey,
that they may be useful to him wherever he may be, and on any
occasion.

Thus done in our Classical Meeting held within Amsterdam,
Anno 1G36, May 5, xxxix. 7.

June 7, 1636.

3. Instructions and Letter of Credential for School-Masters
going to the East or West Indies or elsewhere.

Whereas, it is well understood by the Hon. Directors of the
N. N. Company, that nothing is more important for the well-
being of men, of whatever station, than that they should be taken
care of from the very beginning, by keeping them under the eye

1636

98 Ecclesiastical Records

and supervision of the Schoolmaster, and in the exercises of the
school, that they may derive from such instruction the means
necessary for their support, in all the stations and callings of
life: and

Inasmuch as, also, upon these exercises, both the glory of God
and the salvation of men are not a little dependent; and such
exercises are deemed expedient both for the •welfare of their
Company, as well as for the individuals employed therein; and
also that their ships, besides the other officers, may also be pro-
vided with Schoolmasters ; and

Inasmuch as the by these, by the name of ]!^. IT.

has offered his services, in this capacity, to the Com-
mittee on Ecclesiastical Affairs of the said Company, and which
Committee is specially charged therewith by the Classis of Am-
sterdam : and the said Classis having previously inquired as to this
individual, and by examination have ascertained his fitness and
experience for such a position ; that on the report rendered by the
said Classis, and with the approbation and consent of the said
Hon. Directors, he has been appointed Schoolmaster, and sent in

such capacity to IST IST with these specific instructions^

to wit:

He is to instruct the youth, both on shipboard and on land, in
reading, writing, ciphering, and arithmetic, with all zeal and dili-
gence: he is also to implant the fundamental principles of the true
Christian Eeligion and salvation, by means of catechizing: he is
to teach them the customary Eorms of Prayers, and also to ac-
custom them to pray: he is to give heed to their manners, and
bring these as far as possible to modesty and propriety: and to
this end, he is to maintain good discipline and order, and further
to do all that is required of a good, diligent and faithful School-
master.

And inasmuch as IST IST. .... is directed to conduct him-
self in this office according to these instructions, and he, on his
part, has promised so to do, as well as to set a good example be-

' OF THE State of 'N'ew York. 99

fore youth and others: Therefore, these open letters, both
Credentials and Instructions, are given him upon his sailing, to
B&rve him as may be found necessary.

Thus done in our Classical Assembly held in Amsterdam, on

xxxix. 9.

June 7, 1636.

4. Form of Credential and Instruction for the Minister with an
Ambassador or Resident.

Whereas, It is proper, so far as may be possible, that the glory
of God and the salvation of men be promoted by the exercise
of the regular worship of God, in all parts of the world, and in
all places, where opportunity offers: and. Whereas, His Excel-
lency, Mr. ]^ IST , Ambassador, or Resident, on be-
half of this city (state? staet, not stadt,) at the Court of E". 'N.,
has need of a preacher: Therefore, We, Ministers of the Divine
Word, and Elders of the Church of Christ, belonging to the
Classis of Amsterdam, with the consent of the said Ambassador,
or Resident: after previous proper inquiries, and examination in
the principal points of Scriptural Doctrine; and after sufficient
proof of the piety of life, as well as the evidence of necessary
gifts and ability, to present the Word of the Lord unto edifica-
tion; and after previous subscription of the ITetherlands Confes-
sion, the Christian Catechism, and the Canones Synodi ISTationalis
Dordrechtis: have solemnly set apart and do by these presents

set apart this reverend, pious, and learned IN" IST , as

preacher to the said Ambassador, or Resident; to preach God's
Holy Word, as contained in the Scriptures of the Old and 'New
Testaments; to administer the Sacraments of Baptism and the
Supper, which the Lord has instituted as seals of his grace; duly
to visit the sick, and comfort them ; and, when necessaiy, prudently
to administer church discipline; also, if it be practicable, to ob-
serve catechizing with all diligence ; and furthermore in all things
to execute the office of a minister, as becomes a true servant of
Jesus Christ, according to the Word of God, and in conformity

1636

100 Ecclesiastical Records

with the Netherlands churches, Confession, and Christian Cate-
chism. We request of all those to whom this instrument shall be
exhibited, and nnto whom our said brother shall come, that they
will be pleased to recognize him as a lawfully commissioned ser-
vant of Christ; and hold him in honor for his office and his work's
sake; and also to be of aid to him, as far as they can: in order
that he may fulfill his office unhindered and with gladness, to the
magnifying of God's Holy Name, and the conversion and sal-
vation of many. Whereunto we wish him the abundant blessing
of the Lord.

Thus done in our Classical Assembly, within Amsterdam, on

, and signed in the name of all

xxxix. 10.

June 7, 1G36.

5. Rules and Articles determined on — founded on the Delibe-
rations of the Deputies, (and) of the Messrs. ISTegotiators of
Moskow, (Muskovy) and submitted to the Assembly of the Clas-
sis, concerning Ministers who shall go thither; and Instructions
for said Ministers.

1. That there shall go thither a person well versed in doc-
trine, and who, as minister, shall preach the Word of God, and
administer the Sacraments, and perform all other ministerial
functions.

2. That the said person shall sail from here to Archangel at
the first opportunity, and A\-ith one of the first ships.

3. That having arrived at Archangel, he shall preach on Sun-
day mornings and on Thursday evenings, during the period of
his stay there; and if it can possibly be done, the Catechism
shall be taught on Sunday afternoons, that the Lord's Day may
bo the more fully hallowed.

4. That he shall be obliged to come back here with the fleet,
unless some Negotiator should pass the winter there. In case,
then, an agreement can be made between the parties, after the

OF THE State of New York. 101

1636

minister's engagement at Archangel has terminated, that he may,

upon invitation, continue there through the winter, taking up

his residence at Wolga, or at Jereslau — permission is granted

to the minister to do this: it being well understood that he

shall remain there not longer than a year; and in the follo-s\dng

summer he is to cross over to Dalaar (or) Gersbarte, so that

the Classis may have not only due knowledge of the location of

the (]\rinister?) there, but also that it may remain with Classis

to decide whether to continue the one thus commissioned, or to

invite another one in his place.

5. Also that ^vritten instructions shall be drawn up, in accord-
ance with which the commissioned one shall be obliged to con-
duct himself. These shall be drawn up by the Classis, and sent
along mth him.

6. That two persons shall accompany his Reverence, who shall

be chosen thereto by the Classis of the Reformed

religion in the Netherlands language (or church?)

alms, and to receive them at Archangel. These shall also make
due report of all such moneys received, as well as other moneys
collected on private occasions. These shall be brought hither,
and paid over to the Diaconate of the Netherlands Church, inas-
much as in the said Classis there are no garonen, ? The said col-
lectors shall be nominated \\dth the previous knowledge and ad-
vice of the minister, and for the present there are (nominated?)
by the Classis, Christian Mupa (?) and La^^Tence Gossnirs (?).

7. That the minister in Moscow (Muscovy) shall have sole and
independent control of his own church there; and there must
not be allowed in any vnse, any assumption (of power) or influ-
ence from the church of Archangel. This shall also be clearly
expressed in his instructions; especially because it is not? un-
derstood that the Rev. Bergius, who is at present located there,
did formerly send an elder and dsacon every 3'^ear from Mos-
cow to Archangel, and that this has not subsequently been con-
tinued. (?)

1636

102 Ecclesiastical Records

8. That the minister from (in) Moscow (Muscovy), and especi-
ally the one in Archangel shall be maintained by his regular salary,
without receiving anything for baptizing or marrying, or from
the congregation; so that the honor and reputation of the ISTeth-
erland Church in such localities may suffer no disparagement

xxxix. 11.

June 7, 1636.

6. Instructions for the Minister in Moscow and Archangel.

1. That the teachings of God's Word be presented to the peo-
ple with prudence, and in a sound and edifying manner, and in
conformity with the teachings of the National Synod recently
held at Dordrecht, (1618-19); that the Sacraments be adminis-
tered according to the institution of Christ, and in conformity
with the general order of the Eef ormed Church in this land, and
that this be done as often as the condition of the church there
may require it; that also the sick be visited and comforted, and
that church discipline be prudently attended to, according to
the necessities of the church.

2. That the ministers, both at Moscow and at Archangel, shall
concern themselves only with their respective churches, and shall
in no wise assume to themselves what belongs to the govern-
ment of (other) churches, there or elsewhere.

3. That every year a written ecclesiastical report be made to
the Classis, of the condition of the two churches. This report
shall be signed by the preachers and elders.

4. That each of these preachers must refrain from all dis-
putes, whether in behalf of or against the Russians, as well as
with others who have gone there, whether Lutherans or Papists.

They shall also prudently write but not

without the advice of their consistories.

5. Furthermore, each of these preachers must be on his guard
against inducting any person into the ser^dce of the church, or

OF THE State of JSTew York. 103

1636

into the office of the preacher, without special authorization by

our Classis.

6. That each of the said preachers shall be supported by the
regular salary assigned to them, respectively, by the Messrs. jSTego-
tiators, without laying any claim to, or receiving fees from, any-
body, for marrying, baptizing, or by way of benefit. The in-
tention of the Messrs. IsTegotiators, which is thoroughly approved,
being this : that they are not to be held accountable, outside the
said salary, for any other expenses, whether for traveling, or
for his lodgings there; but that the preacher at Archangel must
meet the cost of his travel, and for his lodging there, on the
best terms he can make; and that the be consti-
tuted and the married people, and the children for

baptism shall give zeal, and that such by the

Almighty may be

7. That the minister sent to Archangel shall be required to
go -vvith one of the first ships sailing thither; and return again
with the fleet, or at the longest (stay) there during the summer,
according to the articles of the Negotiators, concerning this ser-
vice, xxxix. 12.

June Y, 1636.

T. Drawn up by the Classis and .approved by the College of the

Admiralty, at Amsterdam, ISTov. 28, 1636.
Form of Admiapringe (appointments?) and Instruction for
Licentiates (Proponents) sailing upon Men-of-War.
Whereas, it is suitable and necessary, for the promoting of
God's glory and the salvation of men, that there should be in-
stituted upon Men-of-War (periods of) Keligious Meditations,
when, at appointed times, God's Word should be preached in a
praiseworthy manner; God's Name be publicly invoked; and the
people be admonished into true piety; and, in addition, that men
may be edified and comforted in a Christian manner, when in dis-

104 Ecclesiastical Records

couragement, or illness, and especially when in the hour of death :
Therefore, We, Ministers of the Word, and Elders of the Chnrch
of Christ, belonging to the Classis of Amsterdam, in the fear
of the Lord, and \\dth the invocation of his Name, have adjudged
the licentiate (proponent) N. N. — who has also exhibited laud-
able certificates both as to his soundness of doctrine and piety
of life : and who, after the customary examination in the prin-
cipal Articles of the Christian Religion, and his subscription to
the Formulae of Concord — as a suitable person to enter upon,
and undertake the office of Proponent, on the War Elect: for
which service he has also been accepted by the High Mighty, the
Messrs., the College of ' Admiralty :

And in order that he may become known as such to every one
whom it may concern, and that they may know how he must con-
duct himself in this his office, this Letter of Instruction is sent
with him : Therein it is ordered, that on the Lord's day, and on
other proper occasions he shall preach a sermon on God's Word,
with all edification, and unto the instruction, admonition, com-
fort and rebuke of the people.

He shall also comfort and instruct those lying at the point of
death; and also other sick and distressed ones, in their necessi-
ties and discouragements, out of the Word of God. Also, be-
sides, in private, he must admonish every one upon occasion, and
particularly against cursing, swearing, and the thoughtless abuse
of the name of the Lord, etc., and earnestly warn them.

And inasmuch as the said N. N. has agreed and -promised
faithfully to observe all this, and to accompany his ministry with
a Christian and pious walk: Therefore we request all whom
it may concern, to respect him very highly, (lit. to hold the same
in peace) as the servant of Christ, for his office and work's sake :
also, so far as is possible, to aid him, in order that he may per-
form his duties unhindered, and with gladness, to the magnify-
ing of God's Holy Name and the conversion and salvation of
many.

OF THE State of New York. 105

Thus done in our Classical Assembly, signed by ns in tbe

name of all. xxxix. 13.

June 7, 1636.

8. Form of Instruction for Preachers on Men-of-War.

Whereas it is proper and necessary for the advancement of
God's glory and the salvation of men, that God's Word should
be preached on the Ships of War, in its purity; that God's name
should be publicly invoked; that the Holy Sacraments should be
administered on occasion: that the people should be admonished
to greater piety, and be edified and comforted in a Christian man-
ner, in times of need, in illness, and especially in the hour of
death: Therefore, We, Ministers of the Divine Word, and Elders
of the Church of Christ, belonging to the Classis of Amsterdam,
in the fear of the Lord, and after invoking his IsTame; with the
consent and approval of the l^oble and Mighty, the Messrs. Coun-
cil of the Admiralty of the College of Amsterdam; after previous
and due investigation and examination of him on the principal
points of Christian doctrine; and after sufficient evidence of his
piety of life; also after the finding of the necessai-y gifts and
qualifications in him to present the Word of the Lord unto edifi-
cation ; and after his previous subscription of the Netherland Con-
fession, the Christian Catechism, and the Canones Synodi Na-
tionalis Dordreehtis: have solemnly ordained, with the laying on
of hands, and by these presents do ordain, the reverend, pious,

and highly-learned IST JST , to occupy the office of a

preacher on the War Fleet, and to perform all the functions
thereof, as becomes a pious and faithful servant of Jesus Christ.
And, to the end that the same may be known as such, to every
one whom it may concern, and since he has agreed and promised
faithfully to observe this, his ministry, in everything, according
to God's Word, and to pursue it with a pious walk: Therefore
have we given unto him these lettei-s of Instruction, %\'ith the re-
quest that every one, whom it may concern, will be pleased to
hold the same in honor, as a servant of Christ, for liis office and

1636

106 Ecclesiastical Records

work's sake; also to assist him, as far as possible, in order that
he may perform his office unhindered and with gladness, to the
magnifying of God's Holy Name, and the conversion and salva-
tion of many.

Thus done in our Classical Assembly on

Signed by us in the n^me of all

xxxix. 14.

June 7, 1636.

9. Instructions for the Minister going to Smyrna, drawn up by
order of the Rev. Classis of Amsterdam. (Given to Domin©
Thomas Koenen?)

1. He shall present and proclaim to the people the teaching of
the Divine Word in a sound and edifying manner, and with all
prudence; he shall administer the Sacraments instituted by Christ
as frequently as the condition of the place and the congregation
shall require; he shall duly visit and comfort the sick, and also
administer church discipline as occasion requires, but with all
prudence; he shall also hold catechetical exercises with all dili-
gence, so far as it may be practicable; and he shall take care that
everything be done in conformity with God's Word, and with
the confession of Faith, the Christian Catechism, and the decrees
of the last National Synod, held at Dordrecht, (1618-19), and
as is the usual practice here in this country, in our Reformed
Churches.

2. He shall also maintain a proper correspondence with thia
Classis, and advise it of all extraordinary events, if time permit
him, and annually to report in writing the state of the church.
To this end, he shall suitably note down all events as they take
place in a church-book.

3. And as soon as he arrives there, he shall endeavor to estab-
lish a church among people of our own nation. To this end he
shall seek to ascertain of what members there are

OF THE State of i!«[ew Yoek. lOY

tliere of the Reformed Keligion, and lie must give special attention
to all such, so as to promote an edifying walk among them, and
purity of doctrine, that he may from them gather members, and
form capable material, that he may, as opportunity serves, select
and establish a Consistory.

4. And in order that the preacher now going there may be pro-
vided with some help, he shall for the present discriminatingly
seek to employ the help and advice of Mr. Consul in necessary
cases.

5. When the minister has been there for some time, and there
shall have been found among those of our own nationality fit
material; or when other pious and experienced persons shall have
joined those already there; and some of these have been induced
temporarily, to exercise the duties of Elders and Deacons, until
such time as, under the mighty blessing of God, the hoped for
church shall be erected there ; — then, when the people shall have
so increased that it has become possible, shall they proceed, ac-
cording to the usual Order of the Church in this country, to the
regular election of Elders and Deacons.

6. In the reception of members, and the baptizing of children
or adults, he shall (act) according to the Order and custom which
are in use in this country. Thus may everything be done with
proper regularity and prudence, and offences be avoided as much
as possible, and the glory of the church preserved and upheld.

T. And if any come from other places, and represent them-
selves as church members of the Reformed Religion, and request
to be admitted to the Communion, but without having with them
their church certificates; it Avill be expedient to inquire, as far as
possible, into the deportment of each one of them. If nothing be
found against them, they shall be temporarily admitted upon such
evidence and during their abode in that place, as transients,
(passants). In the meantime they are to be admonished to bring
their certificates with them another time.

108 Ecclesiastical Records

8. He shall also constantly give heed, and, as far as practicable,
maintain conformity in everj^hing, with the practice of the church
in this land, in reference to betrothments and marriage, (onder-
tronwen and trouwen,) if such circumstances arise there; and
regulate himself therein in accordance with the marriage-law or
the civil ordinance in the matter of marriage made by this State.

9. He shall also take care that collections of alms be made at
religious gatherings, and a careful account of the same be kept.
Out of these, on occasion, needy transients (passants) and the
poor church members, or also captive slaves may be aided and
comforted.

10. He shall also keep a correct register of all the members,
and of those who are baptized and are married.

According to these Instructions the said jST. N". is ordered to
conduct himself in his office. He, on his part, has promised so
to do, according to his act of Call; and according to the estab-
lished Form, these Instructions are also given him.

The Hon. Consul has been pleased to agree to these points of
Instruction. At the same time it is recommended to his Honor,

1. To keep a register of those who die there.

2. To attend to the matter of organizing a school for the in-
struction of the youth in reading and writing and the knowledge
of the Christian religion.

The first his Honor (the Consul?) has deemed very necessary.
The second to be deserving of further consideration, xxxix.
IT, 18.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

(West Indies.)

Inquiry about a certain paper.

1636, Aug. 4th.

"Whereas the Assembly has understood that the said writings
from the consistory in the West Indies, sent to the Fatherland,
are in the keeping of the Hon. Councillor Cai-peutier; the said

OF THE State of ISTew Yoek. 109

brethren shall address his Hon. in order to ascertain to whom
these said papers belong. This was done; but no papers for us
were found, iv. 79; xxxix. 22.

(West Indies.)

There was read a copy of a lengthy paper, which was sent to
the Messrs. Directoi-s of the West India Company, by Christian
Ilachtoo (or Ibachtoo) who was formerly a minister in the West
Indies. And the Committee ad confus Indicus were directed to
peruse together the said paper, and to extract therefrom the most
noteworthy matters, and to present the same at the next meeting,
iv. 79; xxxLx. 22. [See Oct. 5, 1637.]

(Plan for West Indian Churches.)

The Assembly commissioned Rev. Hachendorsius, Rev. Ohars-
chius. Rev. Meefius (ISTeefius?) and Rev. ISTitmordonchius to de-
vise among themselves a certain Plan (Concert) in accordance with
which the churches in the West Indies may be governed edifyingly
and with good order; and the said Brethren shall report the same
to the Classis. iv. 80; xxxix. 22.

Syistod of JSTorth Holland, at Enkhuysen.

1636, Sept. 9, et seq.

Art. 34. Preacher for the West Indies.

His Excellency, Count (John) Maurice, of Nassau, about to
proceed to the West Indies, (Brazil) has made request that a
thoughtful and capable minister be selected, to be sent to the West
Indies in accordance with Church-Rules. This request was par-
ticularly pleasing to this Synod, and it was resolved, that the
Classes shall give heed to it at the earliest opportunity; and if
they learn of any one disposed to go thither to inform the Church
of Amsterdam. The Rev. Correspondents (of other Synods) will
also be pleased to do the same.

1636

110 Ecclesiastical Records

1636. Art. 35. (Under the Ministerial Changes this year oc-
curs the following item:)

Classis of Amsterdam.

Sent to the West Indies, (Brazil) Eev. Joannes PoUiemus.*

Acts of the Deputies.

Plan for the partial government of the West Indian Churches.

1636.

1636 [Fall.]

The plan drawn up by the above mentioned brethren was read,
relating to the regulation of the churches in Brazil. It was re-
solved that at the next meeting of the Classis this shall be more
fully discussed, and maturer consideration be given to every par-
ticular, xxxix. 23.

(East and West Indies.)

(1637, April 6th.)

It was resolved to ask advice of the Synod whethei

the Comforters of the Sick, [Siecken-Troosters] going to the
East and West Indies, in cases that may arise, shall be permitted
to perform the marriage ceremony and to baptize, iv. 90;
xxxix. 27.

[Committee on Indian Affairs.]

(1637, April 6th.)

Rev. Mourcourtius having been a member of the Committee
on Indian Affairs, and having served out his term of two years,
requested to be discharged from his office. The Classis resolved,
to continue Rev. Aarsenius, Rev. Meursius; and to them are
added Rev. Treteatius and Rev. John Ambrosius. iv. 90;
xxxix. 27.

• This Is the Johannes Theodorus Polhemus, who, with the loss of Brazil to the
Dutch in 1654, came to Long Island, and established Dutch Churches there, and It
ancestor of the Polhemus family in America.

OF THE State of IsTew York. Ill

1637

Synod of !N"orth Holland, at Edam.

163Y, Aug. 10 et seq.

Art. 29. Ministerial Changes. (Among many others:)

Classis of Amsterdam.

Sent to the West Indies: Domine Fredericus Keslerus,
preacher at Amsterdam. Domine Franciscus Planti, newly or-
dained to the service.

Classis of Enkhiiysen.

Domine David a'Doreslaer, called, examined and sent, as
minister to Brazil.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Jonas Michaelius.

163Y, Sept. 7th.

Whereas the Messrs. Directors of the West India Company
request a minister for New Netherland; and since Rev. Jonas
Michaelius is now present here (in Holland) without a charge;
the Brethren resolve that the Deputies on Indian Affairs must
put forth every endeavor to persuade him to the acceptance of
this service. Having done this, they will recommend him most
favorably to the Directors, iv. 103; also in xxxix. 33.

1637, Oct. 5th.

The Brethren, the Deputies on Indian Affairs report, that
they had recommended and proposed Rev. Jonas Michaelius
(Dominum Jonam Michaelium) to the Directors; but they had
finally given as an answer, that when they had need of him,
they would summon him. This greatly displeased the (Classical)
Assembly, iv. 107; xxxix. 34.

112 Ecclesiastical Records

1637

Indiams (East asv) West).

Plan to 1)0 devised to roach tluMu.

Altlionp,li sov(M-al luallovs rtMiiaiii inillnisliod wliioli oiig'ht to be
att(Mid(Ml (d, 1( was rcsolvod to ooiiio to soiuo dooision ix\2;avding
these snvago mon of tlio I'ast and AVc>st intlios, at tlu^ lirst oxira
Classical scission, and to scMid siu'li diM'isions to tlio olinrclics there.
In case that extra session slionld bt'conio too prolonged, it shall
then and there Avrito sjiociallv io the (rognlar meeting of the)
Classis, (a statement of the whole case); after wdiieh it shall
take lip the case of Christian ITaehtoo, allnsion to which shall
also ho made al the sanu^ time, in the same special connuunication
lo the (ri'gnlar) Chissis. iv. 107; xxxix. 3-i.

Afkaiks in the West Tnoiks.

1637, Xov. lOth.

Concerning aiTairs in tlu^ AV(>st Indies it was reported, 1. That
their Acta had been sent to the Svnod o^ North Holland and
to the chnrches of the ]\lense, (Macs); 2. That the Acta of onr
Svnod, I'vom the year 1(120 to the ]n-esont lime (1G37) will bo
sent to I hem; 3. That some copies (specin\ens) of the Alarriage
Ordinance', adopttMl by tlu^ lligli Anthoritii\s here, will be sent
tiiither; -1. 'IVniching the baptism of niibaptized children of Bra-
zilians, negroes and others: Inasmuch as this matter has been
referred to the Synod, (of "N"orth Holland,) and has been acted
on by them, their action will be sent over, (to Hra/.il.) At the
same lime they will lu> fold, that so far a.s onr C^lassis is con-
cerm>d, she has nincli wished that the casus jiad been somewhat

more specitically stated, and ]>:irticnlarly It had

really also the intention to tpiestion the t'liildnMi ot' Brazilians,
lud'ore (h(\v wci'c adopted, and so passed ov»m- into familiam
Christianornm. The Ibvlhren depnted on hulian Affairs will

OF THE State of New Yokk. 1 1 .'I

1637

correct the letters for both the Indies (East and West) and

bring them in at the next meeting of Classis. iv. Ill; xxxix.

35, 36.

Jonas Michaelins.

1637, Nov. 16th.

The case of Eev. Jonas Michaelins and Peter el ansz. Lantman

shall be bronght anew before the Directors by the Deputies, and

be earnestly rcconmicnded. iv, 113; xxxix. 37.
8

1638

114 Ecclesiastical Records

ADMmiSTEATIOIT OF WILLIAM KIEFT.

1638-1646,

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

("West Indies.)

(1638, April 10.)

It was represented to the Hon. Messrs. Directors (of the West

India Company?) by the East India Company, which

also by ministers in Brazil answered to this with

the fii'st now expected the advice of the Assembly

of the XIX

There were also handed over the Synodical Acta from the
year 1618 to 1638. It was promised to recommend this business
in the most favorable manner to the said Assembly.

In reference to the marriage ordinances, it was answered that
some had been sent before, and more would be sent.

On May 15 the Directors informed Rev. Somerus that the As-
sembly of the XIX had agreed to the suggestion, and requested
two ministers, as well as Siecken-Troosters, and Schoolmasters.
Thereupon it was resolved to recommend as ministers Rev. Jonas
Michaelius, Abraham Middlehovius, and Peter Jansen Lantman;
as Siecken-Troosters, Isaac Abrahams and Peter Wemerius, of
Meppel; as Schoolmaster Philip Cyriacus Nicolaus. These
recommendations were announced on 20th inst. to the Directors
by the Deputies. Answer was given that the decision of the
Company shall be made known to the Brethren through their
Committee, as soon as possible, xxxix. 40.

ResolutiojS" of the States General urging the Colonization

OF Xew Xetherland.

1638, April 26.

Whereas their High Mightinesses learn that a sufficient num-
ber of good and pious clergymen have not been sent to labor at
Brazil in the harvest of the Lord; also that church discipline

OF THE State of iSTEW Yokk. 115

1638

has not been duly introduced, much less practiced there, nor
even order taken for the establishment of schools for the educa-
tion of the rising youth, that they may be brought up in religion
and piety.

Secondly, their High Mightinesses receive additional informa-
tion that the population in Xew Netherland does not only not
increase as it ought, but even that the population which had
been commenced is decreasing, and appears to be neglected by
the West India Company, so that the inhabitants of foreign
princes and potentates, are endeavoring to incorporate ISTew ISTeth-
erland, and if not seasonably attended to, will at once entirely
overrun it.

Therefore their High Mightinesses, after previous delibera-
tion, have resolved and concluded on the first point, hereby to
instruct and authorize their deputies to the Assembly of the
XIX., that in conjunction with the present delegates from the
respective Chambers to said Assembly, they assist in making and
enacting such order, that Divine Worship in Brazil be duly at-
tended to, church ordinance and discipline introduced and prac-
ticed, and the rising youth educated and brought up in the fear
of the Lord and in the Christian Reformed religion.

On the second point, their High Mightinesses have resolved
and concluded, that before the present delegates from the re-
spective Chambers to the aforesaid present Assembly of the XIX.
adjourn, their High Mightinesses' deputies shall assist in making
and enacting such effectual order regarding the population of
ISTew Xetherland, and thereunto in\dte all good inhabitants of
these Netherlands by such inducements and pre-eminences as,
with the approbation of their High Mightinesses, they shall re-
solve to offer to all colonists, so that this State may not be
deprived of the aforesaid ISTew Netherland, by any indirect under-
hand dealing of some inhabitants of this country, and the intru-
sion and invasion of those of foreign princes and potentates. —
Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 106.

116 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

Jonas Michaelius.

1638, June 7th.

The Brethren Deputati ad Ees Indicas reported that thej had

recommended to the Directors of the West India Company, as

ministers, Eev. Jonas Michaelius, Kev. Middlehovius, and Kev.

Peter Jansz. Lantsman. Of these three, Peter Jansz. alone is

accepted, while they give little or no hope to the other two. It

was now resolved to ask for a more definite reply concerning

the first two. iv. 125, xxxix. 41.

1638, July 5th.

Concerning the Revs. Jonas Michaelius* and Middelhouvius,
the Deputati ad Res Indicas reported, that they understood from
the Hon. President of the West India Company that the rejec-
tion of those two individuals had been announced by his Honor,
in the name of the iVssembly, (the Assembly of the XIX, or
Governing Board of the West India Company.) iv. 129;
xxxix. 42.

XoTE ON Rev. Joannes Michielsen in England.

On May 10/20, 1641, the Dutch Church of Yai-mouth, Eng-
land, wrote to the Dutch Church of London, asking for some
pecuniary assistance. They had temporarily secured the services
of Rev. Joannes Michielsen through one of their Elders who had
met him in Zeeland. Of this they were very glad, as they had
long been without a minister, and they were hungering for the
bread of life. This Michielsen had been with them about ten
weeks to their great edification. He was now about to depart
and they ^vished to reward him for his services, — Archives of
the Dutch Church of London, Document 2610.

On Sept. 4/14, 1641, the Dutch Church of Maidstone, wrote
to the Colloque (Synod) of the Dutch Churches in London, that

* This is ttie last reference in the minutes of the Classis of Amsterdam to this
individual. From preceding documents it will be seen that his father's name was
Joannes, and he was probably thus called sometimes himself. He may have had a
son Joannes, if the following documents do not refer to himself. It may possibly
suggest Zeeland as a place to seek for further light on the subsequent history of
the first minister of New York.

OF THE State of ISTew Yokk. 117

they were about to engage as their minister Eev. Joannes
Mijchijlsen, and hence they sent their elder, Danneel Beeckman
to confer with the Colloque on the subject. — Document 2632.

On October 27 (N". S. Xov. 6) 1641, Rev. Joannes Michielsen
wrote to the Dutch Church at London.

He refers to the fact that when traveling some weeks before
to Yarmouth, by way of London, he had promised the Elders
of the Dutch Church of Maidstone that he would come to them,
in case he received no summons from Holland; but he had re^
ceived such a summons, and hence he could not fulfill the con-
ditional engagement. He was about going to Zeeland. — Docu-
ment 2640.

On ^ov. 16/26, 1641, the Dutch Church of Maidstone wrote
to the Dutch Church of London, asking for information as to
what the Colloque of Dutch Churches in London had done. Mr.
Michielsen had written them that he would come to them in two
or three weeks, but two months had now passed. — Document
2644.

ISTOTE GIST THE DuTCIT IN EnGLAND.

Statement of the number of the members of the Eoreign
Churches in England, Eeb. 23 (N. S.) 1634.

French and Walloons of London 1,400

Dutch of London 840

Walloons of Canterbury 900

Dutch of Colchester 700

Walloons of Nonvich 396

Dutch of Normch 363

Dutch of Maidstone 50

Dutch of Sandmch 500

Dutch of Yai-mouth 28

Walloons of Southampton 36

5,213

1638

118 Ecclesiastical Records

Document 2347 in tlie Ecclesiae-Londino-Batavae ArchiTum.
Published 1897, (or Archives of the Dutch Church of London.)

Eteraedus Bogaedus.

Resolution to retain him as Minister of the Gospel.

On Thursday, being the 8th of July. (1638.): In Council presented a certain peti-
tion by Everardus Bogardus, wherein he requests leave to depart for Fatherland, to
defend himself against Lubbert van Dincklage.

We have deemed it necessary to retain the Minister here, so that the Church of
God may increase more and more every day. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 10.

Mortgage on Achtervelt, L. I., given by Andries Hudde to Rev. Everardus Bogardus.

To-day, date underwritten, before me, Cornells van Tienhoven, Secretary of New
Netherland, appeared Andries Hudde, formerly Commissary of store goods here in
New Netherland, who voluntarily acknowledged to be well and truly indebted for
the sum of six hundred Carolus guilders of Holland, arising out of a certain bond
given by the said Hudde to Everardus Bogardus preacher in this place, on the first
of July 1637, which sum the said Hudde promises truly and faithfully to deliver
and pay free of costs and charges and without any gainsay into the hands of said
Bogardus; pledging to that end all his property, as well his buildings and animals
as otherwise, which the deponent may have here in New Netherland and at present
located in the district of Achtervelt, placing him, Bogardus, as he hereby does, in
possession of the effects aforesaid and finally and wholly conveying and transferring
to him the property aforesaid to him, Andries Hudde, belonging and that to the
amount of the above said sum. For all which the deponent pledges his person and
property, real and personal, present and future, without any exception, submitting
to the Provincial Court of Holland, in all good faith is this confirmed by deponent's
usual signature.

Done upon the Island Manhates, this 22nd of July 1638. A. Hudde. — Col. Docs.
N. Y. xiv. 12.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Classical Seal.

1638, Aug. 2nd.

The brethren deputed to devise a Classical Seal, submitted to
the (Classical) Assembly some (designs) drawn on paper by them.
The one which was adopted by a majority of votes contained the
words,

VERITAS ET PAX

-with an open Bible, and an olive branch lying ■^\'ithin it, and shoot-
ing up out of it iv. 132.

OF THE State of JSTew Yokk. 119

List of Buildings erected in ISTew ]^etlierland during Wouter Van
Twiller's Administration, 1633-1638. Among these are the
following references to the Church.

The Church with a house and stable behind it. (On the north
side of Pearl street, [ISTo. 33] between Whitehall and Broad
streets.)

The house of Domine Bogardus. — Col. Docs; ]^. Y. xiv. 16.

Syistod of ISToETH Holland, at Alckmaee.

1638, Aug. 16 et seq.
Article 21.

In regard to Art. 34, touching the introduction of these Eng-
lish ceremonies, (responsive readings), it has been learned that
some very good endeavors have been made about (in opposition
to) these things bj the respective Deputies of the Synod and the
Classis of the Hague. This business, therefore, remains thus far
in statu quo,

1638. Art. 28. (Among reports from the several provincial
Synods, appears this item on p. 14 from Utrecht).
The result is awaited, concerning the care of (or provision for)
the East and West Indian Churches.

1638. Art. 29. Ministerial Changes.

Classis of Alckmaer:
Removed: Eev. Joannes Megapolensis, from Wieringerweert,
Classis of Edam, to Schoorl and Bergen.

1638. Art. 30. (Interesting discussion about the newly trans-
lated Bible, but not properly belonging to New York State
history).

1638

120 Ecclesiastical Records

1638

1638. Art. 33. Gravamina of the Classis of Enkhuysen.

Whether persons who have not Answer: That the maintenance

studied, and who wish to let them- of .the laws of the National Synod,
selves be used as preachers or pro- regarding this article, in so far as
ponents in the employ of the East it is any way possible, shall be ob-
or West India Company, are or are served; and shall not be over-
not exempt from that rule, estab- stepped, except in some great ne-
lished by the National Synod, re- cessity. And that therefore those
garding those persons who have not Classes or Churches, where there
studied: Art. 3, of that Church are Chambers of the East or West
order? India Company, shall proceed with

discretion herein. But first, as re-
gards those persons who, as read-
ers, or sieckentroosters go

to the East or West Indies and come back here again as preach-
ers; or, secondly: as regards such, who, only in case of necessity,
are qualified here, in this land, and are accepted as preachers for
the East and West Indies, and subsequently, also come back here
again, from those lands, as preachers: — on this matter, action
shall be taken at the next Synod, at Haerlem, Anno, 1639. The
Classis, meanwhile, remains charged by Synod to "write a grava-
men, about this matter, to the several Classes.

Proposed Articles for CoLoisrizATioN and Trade of ISTew

Netherland.

1638, Aug. 30-Sept. 2.
On the subject of religion:
2. And inasmuch as it is of the highest importance, that in
the first commencement and settlement of this population, proper
arrangement be made for Divine worship, according to the prac-
tice established by the government of this country; Eeligion shall
be taught and preached there according to the Confession and
formularies of union here publicly accepted in the respective
churches, with which every one shall be satisfied and content;
without, however, it being inferred from this, that any person
shall be hereby in any wise constrained or aggrieved in his con-
science, but every man shall be free to live up to his own in peace
and decorum ; provided he avoid frequenting any forbidden assem-

OF THE State of ISTew Yoek. 121

Llies or conventicles, mncli less collect or get up any such; and
further abstain from all public scandals and offences, whicli the
magistrate is charged to prevent by all fitting reproofs and ad-
monitions, and if necessar}^, to advise the Company, from time
to time, of what may occur there herein, so that confusions and
misunderstandings may be timely obviated and prevented, p. 110.
8. Each householder and inhabitant shall bear such tax and
public charge as shall hereafter be considered proper for the
maintenance of Clergymen, Comforters of the Sick, School-
masters and such like necessary officers; and the Director and
Council there shall be written to touching the form hereof, in
order, on receiving further information hereupon, it be rendered
the least onerous and vexatious, p. 112.

All those who will be inclined to go thither, to inhabit the
country or to trade, shall severally declare under their signa-
tures, that they will voluntarily submit to these regulations, and
to the orders of the Company, and shall allow all questions and
differences there arising to be decided by the ordinary courts of
justice, which shall be established in that country, and freely
suffer there the execution of the sentences and verdicts, without
any further opposition. And shall pay, for passage and board in
the state room, one guilder, in the cabin (hutte), twelve stivers,
and between decks eight stivers, per diem.-^ Col. Docs. N. Y. i.
110-114.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Cornelius Pietersen, Comforter of the Sick.

1639, June 6.
In the same connection, one Cornelius Pietersen, of Edam, but
now living at Amsterdam, offered himself for service in the Vir-
ginias. He was promised the position, iv. 151. xxxix. 48.

1638

1639

122 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

Acts of the Deputies.

Adam Rolands.*

1639, July 18.

Adam Rolands having requested to go to New ISTetherland as
schoolmaster, reader, (Voorleser) and precentor, (Voorsanger),
was accepted, as recommended, upon his good testimonials and the
trial of his gifts, on August 4, 1673; and was sent thither, xx. 1.

Peter van der Linde.

Peter van der Linde asked to go as Siecken-trooster to the
West Indies. Having been heard, he was advised to exercise
himself still further in reading and singing. It was also resolved
to inquire about him in the Haerlem Street across from the " Old
England ", the first house in that street, xx. 9.

Extract from the Acta of the Classis of Brazil.

The churches of Brazil request, first, a larger number of minis-
ters; secondly, Siecken-troosters; thirdly, annually, the Acta of
the Synod of North Holland, xx. 13.

The Difficulties of England and Scotland. •

1639, July 29th.

Thirdly; Inasmuch as it is understood that the four Reformed
cities in South Scotland, have appealed to the Archbishop of
Canterbury in an earnest letter, that he would devise measures
for further removal of the grievances directed against the Church
of Scotland; (it is a question) whether it ought not to be sub-
mitted to the consideration of the Synod (of North Holland) in
conjunction with them of South Zeeland,* that we should address
a communication to this same Archbishop upon the subject, in the
name of our (Netherlands) Chui-ch. iv. 155.

* Can this be tho same Indiridual as Adam Roelantsen, who came over in 1633,
with Rev. Bogardus? In 1639, Adam Roelantsen van Hamelwaard is among the
citizens of Fort Orange, and said to be formerly a schoolmaster in New Amsterdam.
<0'Callaghan, i. 448.) See also Valentine's Manual, 1863, pp. 559-561.

• Perhaps an error for South Scotland.

OF THE State of ISTew Yokk. 123

Baptismal, Register of Church of 'New York.

1639.

The Baptismal List of the Church of New Amsterdam, be-
tween 1639-169Y, was printed in English in Valentine's Man-
ual of the Common Council of New York in 1863, pages Y38-834,
the names being arranged in alphabetical order. The same list,
from 1639 and onward, is printed in its original form, in Dutch
and in chronological order, in the New York Genealogical and
Biographical Record, having been begun in 1874, and is not yet
completed. Ten or twelve pages of names are printed quarterly.
It is interesting to notice how often twins and triplets are re-
ported, and occasionally " vierlings ".

STiSrOD OF l^ORTH HoLLAND, AT HaARLEM.

1639, Aug. 1 et seq.
Article 29.

In regard to proponents, who have not regularly studied, and
who have gone to the East or West Indies, and have returned
again; in what capacity these are to be received in the jSTether-
land Churches — of which mention was made in Art. 33, (1638,)
— shall be treated later under the Gravamina.

Article 33.

There were read and brought in by the Rev. Deputies of our
Synod, the extracts from the Acts of the corresponding Synods,
as they here follow:

From the Acts of Gelderland:

That the affairs of the East and West Indian Churches belong
to the cognizance of the ISTetherland Churches in general.

From the Acts of South Holland:

That these (Churches) will remain under the same care, until
the Assemblv further decides as to the Church affairs of the East

1639

124 Ecclesiastical Eecokds

and West Indian Churches. And that the Churches and Classes,
which now manage these affairs, shall make abstracts from the
letters coming from the East and West Indies about their prin-
cipal items of ecclesiastical business, and shall present these annu-
ally at the session of the several Synods, and shall communicates
them to the correspondents.

Also, if any one knows of any students or preachers, capable
and willing, for the service of the Churches in the East and West
Indies, they are requested to be kind enough to notify the re-
spective Chambers (of the East or West India Company), in
regard to them.

Erom the Acts of Utrecht.

(That the same) "will yet continue their care of the East and
West India Churches; together with those of Gelderland and
Overyssel.

That the Acta of the Synod of Brazil, coming annually, might
be sent to them at the expense of this Synod.

Art. 46.

The Eev. Deputatus, in correspondence, from (the Synod of)
Gelderland, requests, very amicably, in the name of his Synod,
that, in order to a good and close correspondence, there should
be communicated to it by our Synod, an account of the East and
West India Church-affairs. Eor this business, and their Church-
Order, belong to the churches in general. The Gelderland Synod
is of the opinion, and the other corresponding Synods agree
therein, that this entire Netherland Church, as the Mother-
Church of the East and West India Churches, claims equal rights
herein. Therefore is this right (of common supervision) insisted
on every year. But if this communication (overture) be rejected,
the S}Tiod must endeavor to secure this right through their High
Mightinesses, (the States-General).

The Rev. Deputati, in correspondence, from (the Synods of)
Utrecht, Eriesland, and Oveiyssel, join in the preceding request.

OF THE State of jSTew York. 125

Tliey declare that they understand, in general, by this (foreign)
business which has been alluded to, that some (understand it),
that it is the sending over of the Church-Order (as adopted in
the Indies,) with a statement of the difficulties which arise in
connection therewith, etc.; and that others understand it, that it
means (the sending over) of information about the proper per-
sons who may be employed as sieckentroosters or ministers; such
a case recently occurred in the second Gravamen of Haerlem;
so that the information, direction and adjudication of all mat-
ters should be equally attended to by all the corresponding
(S;)Tiods).

It would at least, be agreeable to them, (the above mentioned
Synods) to receive from our Synod (of Korth Holland) as much
inforiy:ation (about the foreign churches) as the Rev. Deputati
of the Synod of South Holland have been in the habit of making
known to us. For it has been resolved on in their Synod of South
Holland, as the custom has also been heretofore, to give " ex-
tracts " (of the affairs in the East and West Indies) accounts of
which are sent over — to the (several Synods), when assembled,
or to their delegates, present, as correspondents (in the Synod of
South Holland.) — (The same is asked from the Synod of North
Holland) — that their (other) Synods may also be kept informed.

Concerning all of this, it was resolved to answer on the part
of our Synod, (of North Holland) that the Rev. Synods will please
to agree among themselves as to the notes of general and par-
ticular matters which should be thus communicated; and that
these things having been made kno^vn to the Classes of our Synod,
resolutions shall be taken thereon, and declared at the next Synod.

Art. 47.

Further: In regard to this same business, it was asked by one
of the Rev. Correspondents:

(1) Whether the Classis of Amsterdam alone is authorized by
the Synod, to conduct the examinations of persons going to the
East or West Indies : and

1639

126 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

(2) Whether it, (the said Classis), ought not to render an ac-
count annually of what has thus been entrusted to it. '

As to the first question: It was answered, 'No; that the Classis
of Amsterdam is not authorized (to conduct examinations) any
more than other Classes w^here there are Chambers (of the Com-
panies).

As to the second question: It is shown by the Rev. Deputies
of our Synod, from the Acta of our previous Synods, that such
has been the practice for a long time; that the persons examined
for the service of the Church in the East or West Indies, as well
as the facts of their return, are reported to this Synod, several
instances of which are adduced; and as yet the Synod is inclined
thereto.

These examples are now adduced by the Rev. Brethren of the
Classis of Amsterdam: That there were sent, as preachers from
their Classis, to the East Indies: Rev. Simon Stuilengius, and
John Claessen Bakes, of Gisp: In the West Indies: Anthony
Claessen van (or of) Lemuyen, (although it has been learned that
he died on the way;) Peter Janssen Lantman, of Abbekerk. It
is also related by the Rev. Deputy from South Holland, that in
their Synod an extract is annually introduced in regard to th©
East and West India affairs, that these may be well attended to;
since in these affairs misunderstandings or mistakes can easily
occur. Our Rev. Deputies also read a letter of thanks from
Utrecht, for what was communicated to them in regard to Brazil.*

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Lubb. van Dincklagen asks to be relieved from his excom-
munication.

1640, March 19th.

Lubbert van Dincklagen, who was formerly Fiscal in the Vir-
ginias, (Virgenys, xxxix. 69,) appeared (in Classis) and complained

♦ The above references to ministers to the West Indies, do not profess to be com-
plete. It is a little remarkable that the reference to Rev. Everardus Bogardus, at
this time in New Netherland, is not referred to. His departure was reported to
Synod of 1632, Art. 38.

OF THE State of Xew Yoke. 127

of botli the ecclesiastical and secular proceedings. He asserted
that, although he was innocent, he was excommunicated by the
machinations of Rev. Everardus Bogaert (Bogardus;) that subse-
quently, such proceedings were instituted against him, that, in
order to escape them, he had been forced to hide himself in the
wilderness, where, for days at a time, he had been compelled to
sustain himself by the grass of the field, through lack of neces-
sary food. He requests that this Bev. (Classical) Assembly would
be pleased to investigate this case, and if they find him innocent,
as he was sure they would, that they would relieve him from the
excommunication.

Inasmuch as this case appears very peculiar to many, it was
resolved to postpone the consideration of the same until the next
meeting. But at the same time, the Deputati ad Causas Indicas,
are hereby directed to draw up a report in a legal paper, showing
all the facts in the case, and at the earliest opportunity, to hand
it over to the Eev. God. (fridus?) Petri Bontius, so that he may,
meantime, wait upon the Assembly of the Nineteen, or upon the
Committee of the States-General, or Mr. Arnhem, provisionally,
in order that his (Van Dincklagen's) affair, be not neglected to
his prejudice, or to the deprivation of his salary, iv. 193-4;
xxxix. 69, 70.

Acts of the Deputies — Foreign Churches.

1640, April 23rd.

The business and other things touching the care of the for-
eign churches, heretofore arranged by Rev. Boutum, are these
following, which shall be brought before Classis simultaneously:

1. Whether it be advisable to observe certain ceremonies in
regard to burying the dead at Ende, D. 'No. 14, and Amboyna,
D. 25?

2. Whether Leoninus de Jonge, minister at in that

city, who does not seem to be disinclined to the service of the
church in the East Indies, shall be further (encouraged?) D. 15.

1640

128 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

3. Whether henceforth all letters to the foreign churches
ought not to be copied, as well as those which are sent to us?

4. "Whether an appointed plan of index (register) in those mat-
ters ought not to be followed.

5. To note that Rev, George Candidius, shows himself inclined
to go at a certain time to the East Indies: D. l^o. 15-28.

6. Item: That the following were sent to the East Indies as
Siecken-Troosters : Edward Bout, John Willemsen, Arent Ros-
senrade, John HejTidricasen, Theo. Maelur, John Ybrecht Croese,
Stephen Heyndricasen, Peter Laurense van Lynseel, Eredeirica
Alcaen (A woman?) Michael Smit, Hejndrices Hartong, Alex-
ander Rossenrade, Isaac Eransen, Gerrit Cornelisse.

And to the West Indies: Abraham Isaacsen, John Jansen Smit,
Edward Ooms, Simon Hulse, Cornelius van der Beek, Clement
Eransen, Cornelius Andriesen.

7. To speak of the extract from Rev. Hewring's written dec-
laration of Martin Gideons " Considerations ", and the necessary
reflections drawn from the letter of the church of Batavia, handed
over in writing to the Directors; D. ISTo. 24: whereof some are
postponed for the later advice of the Classis: 25.

8. Of the of the Siecken-Troosters

about the D. iN'o. 29.

9. Of the manner in which the salaries of the Siecken-Troosters
going to the West Indies are to be provided. D. Xo. 28. Item 31.

10. Of Bartholomeus Coole: that he has handed in satisfactory
testimonials, and is recommended to the West India Company;
D. N"©. 25; is accepted by them, with the promise of fifty guilders
per month for eight or nine montlis; 24; is sent with recommenda-
tion to Utrecht, and ordered to prepare himself with a sermon at
Easter No. 26; and agaiii cited for the Classis in May. Iso. 32.

11. Jonas Aerts, accepted by the Hon. Directors, D. 26 and
32, and sent to Curacoa. The Elder van Sunderdorp was foimd
unfit. D. :N'o. 22, 23.

12. Directions given to make inquiries about the condition of
the church of Moscow, xx. 32, 33.

OF THE State of IsTew York. 129

Lubbertus Dincklagen.

1640, May 7tb.

Lubbertus Dincklagen, formerly Fiscal in ISTew ISTetherland,
appeared (in Classis.) He requested a written memorandum from
this Rev. Assembly, by which, the gentlemen of the justiciary of
this city (Amsterdam) might be informed that the excommuni-
cation passed upon him in New Netherland, should not be pub-
licly posted (published in Indicio) to his injury, or be made to
work to his prejudice. The Assembly resolved to record the
preceding as a resolution, and verbally to request the President
of the schepens, (aldermen or justices,) that the occurrence re-
ferred to should not operate to the withholding of his salary.
This will be done by the clerk, iv. 201; xxxix. 75.

Everardus Hardenbergius,

Everardus Hardenbergius, a candidate in Sacred Theology, pre-
sented his credentials from the Consistory, and the Professors
of Sacred Theology at Leyden; and among the rest, the certifi-
cate of his Preparatory Examination (for licensure). He re-
quested to be accepted as a candidate of this Classis, (of Am-
sterdam.) To this the Classis acceded: iv. 201.

James Dincklagen.

James Dincklagen, formerly sent by the brethren of Zeeland
as a Comforter of the Sick to Guinea, as well as to the island of
Spitzbergen presented his credentials. The Classis was so well
satisfied, that it was resolved, through the Deputies, to suggest
his name to the Directors, iv. 202.

New Charter of Patroonships.

Freedoms and Exemptions granted by the West India Company
to all Patroons, or others, who will plant colonies in New
Netherland.— Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 119-123.
9

1640

130 Ecclesiastical Records

1640, July 19.

In reference to religion, we find the following:
The Company reserves unto itself all large and small tythes,
all waifs, the right of mintage, laj^-ing out highways, erecting
forts, making war and peace, together -^dth all wildernesses, found-
ing of cities, to^^Tis and churches; retaining the supreme author-
ity, sovereignty and supremacy, the interpretation of all ob-
scurity which may arise out of this Grant ; with such understand-
ing, however, that nothing herein contained shall alter or dimin-
ish what has been granted heretofore to the Patroons in regard
to high, middle and low jurisdiction, p. 123.

And no other Religion shall be publicly admitted in ISTew Xeth-
erland except the Reformed, as it is at present preached and
practiced by public authority in the United Netherlands; and
for this purpose the Company shall provide and maintain good
and suitable preachers, schoolmasters and comforters of the sick,
p. 123.

1640, Aug. 21 et seq.

Syxod of Holla:!^^©, at A^nisterdam.

Art. 9. English Ceremonies.
As to Art. 18, relative to the introduction of the English cere-
monies into the English Churches in this land: Inasmuch as
nothing new has come before the Synod in regard to this matter,
it was resolved to pass by the said article, at present, and to omit
it henceforth from the Acta.

1640. Article 30.

Correspondence in the matter of the East and West India

Affairs.

As to Art. 46, Synodi superioris, regarding the closer corre-
spondence about the East and West India Church-affairs, which
was asked for in said article; (1639) The Reverend Correspond-
ents of (the Synod of) Gelderland, South Holland, Utrecht and
Overyssel, read the resolutions adopted at their respective Synods,

OF THE State of New York. 131

and the plans therein proposed. The Rev. Deputatus of Gronin-
gen. as subsequently, also, the Rev. Deputatus of Friesland, stated
that they had received no directions upon these matters, and had
no complaint (doleantie) to make; and no resolutions in regard to
this matter were to be found in the Acta of their Synods. On
this business much discussion now took place, between the Rev.
Synod and the Reverend Brethren correspondents. The corre-
spondents strongly insisted that satisfaction should be given to
them and their Synods in this matter; that they might not be com-
pelled to turn themselves to their respective (Provincial) author-
ities, and to complain (doleren) before them. It was, therefore,
resolved, in accordance with the resolution of the last Synod, at
]Taerlem, by which this Assembly is bound, and in order to satisfy
these brethren so far as possible, that the brethren correspondents
will be pleased to hand in their petitions in writing, even as they
are now spread upon their minutes. These petitions may then
be sent to the several Classes of North Holland, and the resolu-
tions of the same thereon may be learned at the next Synod. This
could have already been done at this time if the Rev. Brethren
had caused their considerations to be placed in the hands of the
Deputies of our Synod.

The petition and considerations are these, as they were ob-
tained from the Acta of the Synod of South Holland, with the
consent of the other Rev. Correspondents present:

The care of the churches in the East and West Indies does not
belong to one particular Church, or Classis, or even to one Synod ;
but it properly belongs to all the Synods of the United Provinces,
or to all the churches in general, of the Netherlands. This is
the opinion as well as the sentiment of almost all the Particular
Synods; for every one to whom the salutary correspondence is
dear, and the mutual peace of the churches desirable, should cer-
tainly have the privilege to promote the same. And this is just,
especially because such opinion and sentiment rest upon incon-
trovertible grounds, aside from the fact that each of the Com-

1640

132 Ecclesiastical Records

panies (the East India and the West India Company) received its
Charter from the Provinces in general, and is sustained by gen-
eral funds (investments from all parts) and is ruled by Directors
from each of all (the Provinces.)

This also is clear beyond all doubt: that it is a work belonging
to the National Synod, or to the churches in general of all these
Provinces, not only to originate but to establish Particular Synods ;
and to this (National) Synod, all individual Churches and Classes
belong. If any particular Church or Classes or even Synod
should assume the care of any other churches or Classes, whether
in the East or in the West Indies, not having been authorized
thereto by the churches in general: — many Provincial Synods
would take great umbrage thereat, even as, for a long time past,
they have manifested their displeasure; and it is to be feared that
such displeasure will increase still more greatly, from time to
time,, and produce troubles which ought to be prevented.

To this may be added yet the follo^ving: That such difficulties
might occur in the East or West Indies, as could and ought not,
to be settled by any particular Churches, Classes, or even Synods,
Also, particular churches (or Classes?) may be neglectful in com-
plying vath the request of the East and West India churches.
It is indeed understood that the said (foreign) churches have here-
tofore complained, and do still complain, that at times no proper
attention has been given to their letters and gravamina; and that
full information is not always furnished them of the ecclesiastical
proceedings in these Provinces.

Now to give once for all (eenelyck) some further explanation
of the matters which ought to come im^der the supeiwision and dis-
position of the churches in general: This, first of all, is regarded
as a point touching all the Synods of these United Provinces, that
they should see well to it that the said churches of the East and
West Indies abide by the purest doctrine, and by the common
church regulations, and not be allowed to introduce anything

OF THE State of !N^ew Yokk, 133

peculiar, without the knowledge and approval of all the churches
in general.

Moreover, that the gravamina of the said churches ought to be
sent over to all the Provincial Synods of this land, in order to
consult and decide about these unitedly.

Further: That the SjTiods in general have a right not only to
the inspection of all the alumni of each of the Companies, but
that these Synods ought also to have an eye to the sending and
appointing of schoolmasters, readers, sieckentroosters, proponents,
and especially ministers, upon whose fitness, so much depends
there, and in so marked a degree.

Finally, that all the Acta and letters of the churches of the
East dnd West Indies ought to be addressed to the churches in
general; even as in turn all the Synods in this land should an-
nually send over general extracts from their Acta to the churches
of the East and West Indies, in so far as these may be of service
to them.

' But in opposition to all this, it may be said, that several re-
quests and attempts have been made, to be allowed* to form, from
all the Provinces, one Ecclesiastical Assembly, which should have
common oversight of all the East and West India churches; but
that this has not been efi^ected, because it was not kno^vn how
the expenses incurred thereby could be met.

It was answered, that such an Assembly would have to be or-
ganized at the charge of each Synod; inasmuch as the said ex-
penses could not be obtained either from the Hon. Messrs. Direct-
ors, or from the High Mighty Messrs. the States, nor from
anywhere else.

It might also be said that matters now and then come up which
would not brook the delay of being treated by correspondence
with the other Provinces: But this serves as a reply: That cer-
tain ecclesiastical bodies can be appointed and authorized to con-
sider such matters as require haste. These should be required
to give an account of what they do or do not do, to their prin-
cipals, with their reasons therefor.

1640

13i Ecclesiastical Records

In order then, that this good cause may have progress and be
facilitated, it is expedient that this project be made known to the
churches of all the other Provinces.

Further : In case of refusal or longer delay, a remedy could
be requested from their High Mightinesses, the States-Greneral :
The Synods interested shall themselves recommend this to their
respective States, mth the request that they would be pleased
to promote this affair at the meeting of their High Mightinesses.

1640. Article 38.

There were introduced and read the extracts from the general
affairs, out of the Acta of the Corresponding Synods, even as
follows :

From the Acta of the Synod of Gelderland of the year 1638.

To request an increase of the salary of ministers' widows,
by the correspondencies among the Synods of these United
provinces, in regard to the East and West Indian churches :
Also the form and manner of that plan of a Marriage Ordi-
nance, (echt ordaninge; or if this be read egt ordaninge, it
might mean " genuine ordination " :) accompanied by the pre-
ceding advice of the respective Classes. This after being fur-
ther examined in the Synod, shall be presented to the Hon.
Court, and the Landschap, (landship; authorities of the com-
munity; magistrates.)

From the Acta of the Synod of South Holland:

A plan to arrange a common supervision over the church
affairs of the East and West Indies, approved by the Synod,
shall be communicated to the Eev. Brethren of Zeeland,* and to
all the Synods of these Provinces. After the said plan has been
approved, it shall be laid before the Assembly of the XVII and
XIX, and sent to the Messrs. the States of each Province.

• There was no Synod In Zeeland.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 135

Synod of North Holland, Oct. 1640.

(Extra session.)

Continuatioii of the Acts of the Particular Synod of North

Holland, reassembled at Amsterdam, on October 30, of the year

1640.

Art. 20. East and West India Church affairs.

Thereupon the said Deputatus made known, in the matter of
the East and West India Church affairs, that many debates
thereon had taken place in the Sjiiod of Utrecht; and that it
was finally resolved to let the matter rest for a year, until the
petitions and considerations, which were presented by the cor-
responding Synods on that subject, and which are embodied in
Article 30 of the Acta of the North Holland Synod, (1640) shall
have been considered in the Classes of North Holland. A de-
cision will then have been reached at the next Synod of that
Province (Utrecht). There is added thereto, that this Synod
(North Holland) will kindly permit it (Synod of Utrecht) to
receive, upon its request, which was also made in writing in a
letter of October 28, — and at its expense, the Acta of the
Synod held (or, to be held — te houden) in Brazil, whenever the
same shall be brought over.

This Synod takes pleasure in the resolution. It replies to
the second, that the request of the Synod of Utrecht, as well
as of the brethren of South Holland, who have made a similar
request, shall be favorably made known to the several Classes;
so that the Acta requested, when they come from Brazil, may
be communicated to them.

Classis of Amsterdam, 1640.

Acts of the Deputies.

Megapoleusis. 1640, Sept. 4th.

It was resolved that at the next meeting discussion shall be had
about what was comjnunicated by Megapolensis. xx. 39.

1640

136 Ecclesiastical Records

John Comelisz, of Barsinger-Horn.

1640, Oct. 15th.

A letter was read from Eev. John Megapolensis minister at
Koedjk, in regard to one John Cornelisse (Backer) of Barsinger
Horn, who is disposed to let himself be employed as Siecken-
trooster or also as minister, in the East Indies. But inasmuch
as he has not studied, this matter is set aside, xx. 41.

Petitions from the other Synods regarding Church affairs in

the Indies.

1640, Dec. 3rd.

Tinder the 30th Article, concerning the affairs of the East
and West Indies, the petitions of the Synods of the other Prov-
inces shall be examined by the Classis, against the next ensuing
Synod of ITorth Holland, iv. 217.

John Comelisz. Backer,
pp. 45, 52, 58, 78, [of Vol. 20.]

1641, Eeb. 26th.

Dr. Rudolphus reported, that Kev. John Comelisz Backer of
Barsinger Horn — ,who had been sent hither by John Megapo-
lensis (Senior) minister at Coedyk, and who had exercised him-
self there two years in the Postamena of the Christian Doc-
trine — has applied in ^vriting, to be sent to the East Indies, as
proponent or Siecken-Trooster, as the Assembly might deter-
mine. It was resolved that said John Cornelisse shall (present?)
himself before us on March 25, proximo, in order then to give

proof of his gifts (and that shall inform) his cousin,

(or Nephew, neef,) John Cornelisse, of this arrangement.
XX. 43.

John Comelisz. Backer.

pp. 43, 52, 58, 78, [of Vol. 20.]

1641, March 25th.
John Cornelisse Backer appeared, in accordance with the reso-
lution of the preceding meeting. He preached a sermon on

OF THE State of New Yoek. 137

Eom. 3 :28, " Therefore we conclude that a man is justified
by faith, without the deeds of the law ". He showed that he
understood tolerably well the justification of sinful man before
God, but when he was further questioned of un-
ending .......... the article used, and answer was given for

ministers should to the East Indies : it was consid-
ered that he would have to present himself before the Classis
again on the first Monday in May, in order to let his gifts be
ecxhibited more fully. Then his case will be acted on according
to the advice of Classis. xx. 45.

(J. C. Backer.)

1641, May 6.

John Cornelisse Backer preached a sermon on John 3:16.
The Assembly decided* that he had indeed some good notions,
(reymselen), but that all his ideas were yet crude and tame;
that he had need to study diligently, and hereafter he might
present himself again before us. xxxix. 84.

John Cornelisz.* Backer. (See) pages BY, 88, 84.

1641, June 3.

John Cornelisz. Backer presented himself in order to preach
a sermon. He was put off, and it was announced to him that
he must come back after two months, prepared to preach a
sermon, xxxix. 85.

Council Minute. Conditions under which a party of English
people may come and settle in ISTew jSTetherland.

[Kev. Francis Doughty. Newtown.]

Thursday, the 6th 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 condi-
tions 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 High Might, the
States and to the West India Company, under whose protection they are to live here.

• The letter z, with a period sometimes after it, in the middle name, stands for
" zoon ", " son ", and means that John Backer was the son of Cornelius Backer.
Sometimes the father's name, with the z attached, is placed after the full name of
the eon.

1641

138 Ecclesiastical Records

a. They shall have free exercise of their religion.

3. As to their political government, if they desire a Magistrate, they may nomi-
nate three or four of their ablest men, from whose number the Governor of New
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. They shall not build fortifications without permission.

5. The land shall be allotted to them 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 Netherland.

7. They will be obliged to use the measures and weights of the Country. — Col.
Docs. N. Y. xlii. 8.

For Patent for Mespath or Newtown, March 28, 1642, see O'Callaghan i. 425, and
Riker's Newtown, 17, 18. Extract: " With power ... to erect a church or
churches; to exercise the Reformed Christian Religion, and Church discipline which
they profess ", etc.

See further references to Rev. Francis Doughty under date of July 28, 1649, etc.

Synod of IToeth Holland, at Hoorn.

1641, Aug. 13 et seq.
Art. 29.

In regard to Art. 30, (1640), referring to the closer cor-
respondence with the Eev. Synods of Gelderland, South Hol-
land, Utrecht and Overyssel, concerning church affairs in the
East and West Indies :

The several Classes have complied with the resolution of the
preceding Synod, and have taken into earnest consideration the
representations and remarks relating to this matter, as contained
in the Acta of the Synod of South Holland, which were laid
before the Synod at Amsterdam with, the consent of the said
Brethren, the Correspondents. Upon this business, the advices
of the respective Classes have l:ieen heard and collected. The
Majority declare that it is altogether unadvisable to make any
change, or to depart from the old footing.

]Srevertheless, in order to satisfy the Eev. Bretliren, the Cor-
respondents, it was agreed, that at their request, (copies of) the

OF THE State of 'Nbw York. 139

ecclesiastical Acta of the said East and West India Cliurches
shall be sent to the respective Corresponding Synods. Much
discussion ensued on this resolution, between the Rev. Synod
and the Rev. Brethren, the Correspondents. The result was,
that finally, their Reverences read before the Rev. Synod a
grievance, (doleantie), wherein they complained of the said reso-
lution, in behalf of their principals. They also declared, in ful-
filment of their commission, that their interested principals
would be compelled to resort to such other means as the con-
stitution of the church, and the nature and the justice of the
case permit. Thereupon, the Rev. Deputies of the other Synods
were warned to guard against anything which they might under-
take, that might be to the prejudice of this Synod.

Art. 49.

2. Whereas it is insufferable, that the limitations of callings
and offices should be confused, (lit. that the boundaries should
overlap), it is asked whether the Rev. Synod ought not to estab-
lish a fixed nile, that no preacher, either now or hereafter, under
any pretext vs'hatever, should intrude himself into the practice of
Medicine ?

Answer: The Rev. Synod (decrees) that the ministers prac-
ticing (medicine), whether now in such practice, or about to
undertake it, shall at once desist from such medical practice.
And in order that the said resolution may suffer no infringement,
the Classes and Churches belonging to this Synod are enjoined
to give serious heed thereto, and to act with all earnestness; to
the end that, once for all, the intent of Synod may be complied
with. In case any of the said ministers refuse to obey the said
resolution, the Classes and Churches shall report such trans-
gressors to the next Synod that further provision may be made
against this practice in the most suitable manner. The Rev.
Deputies of Synod are also charged to be vigilant in this matter.

1641

140 Ecclesiastical Records

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

John Cornelis Backer, of Barsinger-Horn.

pp. 45, 43, 58, 78.

1641, Sept. 3rd.

John Cornelis Backer, in accordance with the order of the Rev.
Classis, preached a sermon before the Assembly on the words of
Christ, Matt. 16 :18, " Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will
build my Church ". The Assembly found that he had improved;
but admonished him still further diligently to apply himself.
Another text was given him on which to preach a sermon at the
next meeting of Classis, to wit: John 2:3, " And hereby do we
know that we know him, if we keep his commandments ". Of all
this report shall be made at the next Classis. xx. 52, 53.

John Cornelisse Backer.

pages 88, 85, 84.

1641, Sept. 2.

John Cornelisse Backer came before Classis aimounoing that
he had come to preach a sermon, even as the Classis had charged
him; but inasmuch as there was a great deal to be done, his
request was postponed till tomorrow after the (regular Classical)
sermons. Then he might preach his sermon before the Depu-
ties on Indian Churches, xxxix. 87.

1641, Oct. 7.

The Brethren Deputies on Indian Affairs report, that they
have heard the sermon of John Comelisz Backer on Matt. 16:18,
and had been reasonably well satisfied therewith. They had also
assigned him as a text 1 John 3:1, on which he was ready to
preach before the Assembly. It was then resolved that the said
Deputies should hear him on the morrow, and if they obtained
good satisfaction, they should speak Avith him, to see if he could

OF THE State of New York. 141

1641

let himself be employed on Curacoa. Later, a decision could be
reached thereupon in our Assembly, as soon as convenient.
xxxix. 88. '

John Corneliz Backer, pp. 52, 45, 43, 58, 78.

. 1641, Oct. 8th.

John Comelisz Backer, in accordance with the injunction of
Classis, appeared before the Assembly, and preached on the
words of 1 John 2:3. Therewith the Assembly was reasonably
well pleased, and it was deemed advisable to advance him to the
ministry on the Island of Curacoa, in place of Jonas Aertz. In
regard to this the Directors of the West India Company shall be
spoken to. xx. 58.

John Cornelissen Backer.

1641, Nov. 1.

A sermon by John Comelisse Backer on Rom. 3 :1, was
listened to. Therewith the Assembly was so greatly pleased,
that it was resolved to proceed with his examination. This shall
take place this afternoon to be conducted by the Rev. President
Witten"\\Tongel. xxxix. 91.

Two Ministers in the Classis of Alkmaar, not disinclined to sail
to the East or West Indies.

1641, Nov. 19th.

John Comelis Backer informed the Assembly that he had
learned on good authority that there were certain ministers in
the Classis of Alkmaar, who were not adverse to making the
journey to the East or West Indies, in this same service, if they
could obtain good and favorable conditions. These were the
minister at Schorel, and the minister at Koedyk.* In regard to
them, John Corneliz Backer was told that, in the name of this
Assembly, he should request these two ministers to come down

• One of these ministers was John Megapolensls.

1641

142 Ecclesiastical Records

to this Classis in order that fuller conference might be had with
them about this matter. The Classis promised to do everything
that might sei-^-e towards their advancement, xx. 62, 63.

Acta Deputatorum ad res Exteras.

i 1641, Nov. 19th.

Rev. Peter Wittenwrongel in the chair.

A communication, with some accompanying documents, was
read, which had been sent to the Classis by the elders and deacons
in New Netherland, (at ISTew Amsterdam.) Therein they report
and justify the procedure of the church against Lubbert Van
Dincklagen, the treasurer (of the Colony.) They sent to the
Classis two commendatory testimonials concerning their pastor,
one from the Consistory, and another from the Director. They
desire and request that the good correspondence be maintained
with them more promptly than had been the case for a long time
past. They report the good condition and daily increase of their
congregation. The Americans (Indians) come not yet to the
right knowledge of God; but the negroes, living among the col-
onists, come nearer thereto, and give better hope. They request
earnestly and perseveringly that the Rev. Classis would take
their case to heart, and support them in their action against Lub-
bert Van Dincklagen, in order to maintain the honor of their
worthy pastor, the Rev. Edward Bogardus. xx. 64.

John Cornelisz. Backer.

1641, Dec. 2.

The Rev. President questioned John Comelisse Backer. He
was examined in the fundamentals of the Christian Religion.
His answers so pleased the Rev. Brethren that they will present
him, at the proper time, to the Messrs. Directors of the West
India Company, to be sent as minister to Curacoa. Further-
more, he shall be ordained to the ministry by the laying on of
hands, against the time that the ships shall depart for the said
place, xxxix. 92.

OF THE State of jSTew York. 143

1642, Feb. 7.

Agreement between Adam Roelantsen of Dockum, and John
Teunison, Carpenter, respecting the building of a house for
said Eoelantsen.

John Teunison agrees to build the same of the following dimen-
sions: In length thirty feet, in width eighteen feet, in height
eight feet; the beams to be hewni at four sides, the house to be
well and tight clapboarded, and roofed with substantial reeden
thatch; the floors tight and made of clapboard; two doors, one
entry, a pantry, a bedstead, a staircase to go to the garret; the
upper part of the chimneys to be of wood; one mantelpiece; the
entry to be three feet wide, with a partition. The house to be
ready by 1st of May next. All for the sum of three hundred
and fifty guilders (one hundred and forty dollars,) to be paid,
by Roelantsen, one half when the timber is on the ground and
the other half when the building is finished. — Dunshee, 17.

CONTEACT BETWEEN PaTEOON VaN ReNSSELAEE AND ReV. JoHN

Megapolensis.

1642, March 6th.

Conditions freely assented to and accepted by Kiliaen Van
Rensselaer, in his quality as Patroon of his Colony named Rens-
selaerswyck, and by Dr. Johannes Megapolensis, minister of the
Holy Gospel to the congregation at Schoorel and Berge, under
the venerable Classis of Alkmaar, in the presence of Mr. Adam
Bessels, copartner in the said Colony, and the Rev. Jacobus Lau-
rentius and Petrus Wittenwi'ongel, both ministers of Amsterdam,
as preacher to administer and promote divine service in the
aforesaid Colony for the term of six successive years, according
to previous dismission from his said Classis.

First, Dr. Johannes Megapolensis, thirty nine years old, with
his wife, Machtelt Willemsen, aged forty two years, besides his
children, Hellegond, Dirrick, Jan, and Samuel, aged fourteen,
twelve, ten and eight years, shall furnish and provide themselves

1642

144 Ecclesiastical Records

as well with clothing, furniture, and other utensils, and these
put up in such small and compact parcels, as can be properly-
stowed away in the ship.

In the meantime, as his six years and his salary shall commence
so soon as he shall set foot in the aforesaid Colony, the Patroon,
in addition to free board for them all in the ship, until they
reach the Colony, shall over and above make him a present, for
future service, at once, of three hundred guilders, without
deduction.

And in case it happen, which the Lord God in His mercy for-
bid, that he and his family come to fall in the hands of the Dun-
kirkers, the Patroon promises to use all diligence to procure his
ransom; to forward him afterwards on his voyage, according as
occasion shall again offer, and to cause to be paid him, during his
'detention, for the support of himself and his family, forty
guilders per month; and also so much here monthly, after he
shall have received his liberty and orders, and shall have con-
veyed him hither, until he embarks.

On his arrival, by God's help, in the Colony, the Patroon shall
cause to be shown to him where he and his shall lodge at first,
until a fit dwelling shall be erected for him. So soon as he shall
reach the Colony, his hereafter-mentioned salary shall commence,
and his board and wages cease, and the Patroon be discharged
therefrom.

Which salary, in order that he and his family shall be able
honorably to maintain themselves, and not be necessitated to
have resource to any other means, whetlier tilling the land, com-
merce, rearing of cattle, or such like; but by the diligent per-
formance of his duties for the edifying improvement of the inhab-
itants and the Indians, without being indebted to any person,
which he also acknowledges to observe; wherefore the Patroon
promises to cause to be paid to him for the first three years
salary, meat, drink, and whatever else he may claim in that
regard, one thousand or ten hundred guilders yearly, one half

OF THE State of ISTew York, 145

here in this country, the remaining half in proper account there,
according as he requires it, in provisions, clothing, and such like,
at the ordinary and accustomed prices, and a further yearly addi-
tion of thirty schepels of wheat — ■ I say thirty schepels — and
two firkins of butter, or, in place thereof, sixty guilders in
money's worth. Should the Patroon be satisfied with his ser-
vice, he shall give him yearly, the three following years, an in-
crease of two hundred guilders.

In case of decease within the aforesaid six years, at which time
the salary shall cease, the Patroon shall pay to his widow, besides
the supplement of the half year in which he shall have entered,
a yearly sum of one hundred guilders, until the expiration of the
aforesaid six years. He shall, besides, befriend and serve the
Patroon, in all things wherein he can do so without interfering
with or impeding his duties. The aforesaid Johannes Mega-
polensis having also promised to comport himself in the said
Colony as a loyal subject and inhabitant thereof, the above named
Patroon, on his side, also promises for him and his successors, to
perform and execute what is herein-before set forth, and to fur-
nish him with due acte and commission sealed with the seal of
the Patroon and the Colony: and in acknowledgment of the
truth, without fraud, guile, or deceit, has this writing been signed
by both sides. In Amsterdam, this 6th of March, 1642.

Kiliaen Van Rensselaer.

Johannes Megapolensis.

See also O'Callaghan's New Netherland, i. 449; Munsell's
Annals of Albany, i. 21, 92.

Van Rensselaer.

1642, March l7th.

Rev. Peter Wittenwrongel announced to the (Classical) Assem-
bly, that Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, liaAang a colony in New Nether-
land, made request of us to aid him in sending a minister thereto;

that such a minister had been suggested to him, with excellent
10

1642

146 Ecclesiastical Kecoeds

testimonials, by the name of John Megapolensis, Jr., at present
settled in the church of Schoorel, in the Classis of Alkmaar.
The Deputies on Indian Affairs ask, that the brethren of the
Classis would lend their aid in these affairs. Everything was
confirmed bv the Classis, and the further direction and execu-
tion of the call, both with respect to the church and the Classis of
Alkmaar, were commended to the Deputies, iv. 249.

Acts of the Deputies.

1642, March 18th.

Rev. Peter Wittenwrongel in the Chair.

Her. John Megapolensis, pastor at Schorel, by request,
appeared in the meeting. He was asked if his Reverence were
inclined to go as preacher to Rensselaerswyck in ISTew IS^ether-
land. He responded that he had a great desire to do so. There-
upon the meeting requested Mr. Rentselaer, (who, in connection
with a few partners, is engaged in commerce at the above men-
tioned-place), to please to come into the meeting, and confer
with the said Rev. Mr. Megapolensis, and make arrangements
about his salary. Having come to a good understanding con-
cerning this, and Mr. Rentselaer having accepted him (Mega-
polensis) in the above-mentioned capacity, the meeting resolved
to expedite his dismissal from his church and Classis. Revs. Lau-
rentius and Britmannus were appointed a committee to effect
this. It was further resolved that the next meeting be held
two weeks from date, viz. April 1st. xx. 70.

1642, March 22nd.
Call of Rev. Johannes Megapolensis.

"VThereas, by the state of the navigation in East and West
Indies, a door is opened through the special providence of God,
also in 'New N'etherland for the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus
Christ for the salvation of men, as good fruits have been already
witnessed there through God's mercy; and whereas the Brethren
of the Classis of Amsterdam have been notified that Mr. Kiliaen

OF THE State of jSTew York. 147

van Rensselaer hath within the said limits in the JSTorth Eiver
as Patroon, or Lord, founded a Colony, named Rensselaerswyck,
and would fain have the same provided with a good, honest, and
pure preacher; therefore they have observed and fixed their eyes
on the Reverend, Pious and TVell Learned Dr. Johannes Mega-
polensis, Junior, a faithful servant of the Gospel of the Lord,
in the congregation of Schorel and Berg, under the Classis of
Alkmaar, whom ye have also called, after they had spoken vnth.
the said Lord, Mr. Kiliaen van Rensselaer, in the same manner
as they, with his Honor's approbation, do hereby call him to be
sent to ISTew Ketherlaiid, there to preach God's Word in the
said Colony, to administer the Holy Sacraments of Baptism and
the Lord's Supper; to set an example to the congregation, in a
christian-like manner, by public precept; to ordain elders and
deacons according to the form of the holy Apostle Paul, 1 Tim.
iii., v. 1; moreover to keep and govern, with the advice and
assistance of the same, God's congregation in good discipline and
order, all according to God's Holy Word, and in conformity with
the government, confession, and catechism of the itTetherland
Churches and the Synodal Acts of Dordrecht, subscribed by him,
to this end, with his own hand, and promised in the presence of
God, at his ordination, requesting hereby all and every who shall
see and read these, to respect our worthy brother as a la'wfully
called minister, and him to esteem by reason of his office, so
that he may perform the duty of the Gospel to the advancement
of God's Holy ISTame and the conversion of many poor blind men.
May the Almighty God, who hath called him to this ministry,
and instilled this good zeal in his heart, to proclaim Christ to
christians and heathens in such distant lands, strengthen liim,
more and more, in this his undertaking; enrich him with all sorts
of spiritual gifts ; and bless overflowingly his faithful labors : and
when the Chief Shepherd, Christ Jesus, shall appear, present liim
with the imperishable Crown of Eternal Glory. Amen.

1642

148 Ecclesiastical Records

Thus given in our Classical Assembly at Amsterdam, this 22nd
day of March, 1642. Signed in the name and on behalf of the

whole body,

Wilhelmus Somenis, Looo Praesidis,

Zloahar Swalmins, Scriba Classis,

Jonas Abeels, as Elder.

Examined and approved by the Directors of the West India
Company, Chamber of Amsterdam, 6th June, 1642.

(Signed) Charles Looten,

Elias De Raet.

See also O'Callaghan's -Nev7 Is^etherland, i. 449; Mimsell's An-
nals of Albany, i. 21, 92.

1642, April 1st.

Eev. Peter Wittenwrongel in the Chair.
The minutes of the last meeting were examined, and also the
minutes of the Classis, in reference to Indian Affairs, to see if
there was anything therein needing consideration, or which ought
to be brought before the Classis. It was foimd that the Com-
mittee ad causas were charged to inquire concerning the Spanish
translation of the Dutch Confession of Paith. THs had been
entrusted to their excellencies, the Directors of the West India
Company, and the above Committee were directed to endeavor to
obtain it from them. Eev. Mr. Wittenwrongel promised to do
this. It was also thought proper to present or read in the next
meeting of the Classis, extracts from the letter and documents of
the K'ew J^etherland Consistory concerning the case of Lubbei-t
Van Dincklagen, that that business may be discussed in a proper
manner. It was also resolved, as certain vessels were soon to sail,
to write letters to the East and West Indies, as well as to the
Consistory of New Netherland with special reference to the case
of Lubbert Van Dincklagen. xx. 71.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 149

A COMMTJNICATION FROM NeW KeTHERLAND ABOUT LuBBERTUS

Van Dincklagen.

1642, April 7tli.

The Rev. Meui'siiis stated that a communication had been re-
ceived from N^ew iJ^etherland, (New Amsterdam,) coming from
the Consistory there, and signed "by the elders and deacons. They
request that correspondence may he maintained with them by let-
ters. They state that they had sent over the proceedings against
Lnbbert Dincklagen, and were very much surprised that hitherto
no reply had been received. They request that one of (the state-
ments?) of Everardiis Bogardns may be placed over against Lnb-
bert Dincklagen. They hand in for this purpose a certificate (at-
test) and extract from his Church Book, being a vindication of
the aforesaid Everardus Bogardus. This having been discussed,
after (the reading?) of the aforesaid missive and certificate, it was
resolved to postpone the matter until after further examination
of the Acta of the aforesaid Consistory, (of New Amsterdam)
which must be sent over; and until after Dincklagen himself
should have been heard. Meanwhile the Rev. Brethren ad causas
Tndicas shall inform that church of our action by writing. They
shall also investigate the whole matter ab ovo, so as to be able
properly to inform the Classis in regard to everything, iv. 252;

xxxix. 102.

1642, April 8th.

Rev. Matthias Meursius in the Chair.

Revs. James Laurentius and Henry Britmannus report, that
in accordance with their cojnmission they went before the Con-
sistory at Schorel, and before the Rev. Classis of Alkmaer, and
that they had requested and obtained the dismissal of Rev. John
Megapolensis, pastor at Schorel. He will at the earliest oppor-
tunity depart for ISTew N'etherland to enter upon his charge at
the place called Rentselaerwyck. xx. 72.

1642

150 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

The Classis of Amsterdam to the Consistory of K'ew Amsterdam,

April 22, 1642.

Reverend, Pious, Wise, Discreet and much Beloved Brethren,

Rev. (Bogardus) and Rev of the Church of Christ

at Manhattan in New Netherland:

We duly received your esteemed letter which you sent us
in September of last year (1641) with all the accompanying
papers. We learned therefrom not only the good condition of the
Church of Christ among you, and your hopes for the conversion
of the Americans (the Indians) and the Negroes; but we also
learned of your entire condition, and your acts and procedures
against Lubbert van Dinclagen, formerly fiscal (Treasurer) there.
Regarding the first items, we heartily rejoice, and thank the good
God for the great grace and blessing which He bestows upon the
proclamation of his saving Word in those strange and far distant
lands, and that He vouchsafes a reasonable degree of prosperity
to his church there; also that good hopes exist for the conversion
of the jSTegroes, (jSTegrita-men). W^e beseech him as Lord of Lords
(or Sovereig-n) of the most hardened, that it may please him to
open also the door among the Americans (the Indians), so that
the ministration of his Holy Word may have free course among
them; and that those blind heathen may be delivered from the
thick darknesses of their idolatries and the service of the devil,
and brought to the knowledge and fear of the true God and
Saviour, to the glory of His name and their own salvation.

As regards the second item, touching the affair of Lubbert van
Dincklagen : we have diligently perused your papers, and seriously
noted the extract from your church-book in relation to his affairs;
and also the laudatory testimony given to your minister, the Rev.
Edwardus Bogardus. We should have immediately summoned
the said Lubbert van Dincklagen before our Classical Assembly,
to lay all this before him, and to hear what h6 had to say about it;

OF THE State of New Yoke. 151

1642

but we were informed that he was not living in the city, (of Am-
sterdam), but had some time ago removed his residence to

It was therefore resolved by us to write to him, and to act fur-
ther in the premises as might seem proper. In the meantime we,
here, shall not fail to defend the honor of a minister, our honored
colleague, Eev. E. Bogardus; and as occasion serves, we shall
write further what shall be done by us in this matter.

There is also to be sent to New ISTetherland, notwithstanding a
verbal protest, to wit, to Rensselaerswyck, a certain minister of
the name of John Megapolensis, who has been in the ministry in
this country (Holland) for a long time already, (since 1634),

with whom Eev. Bogardus and his entire Consistory

are admonished and exhorted to hold correspondence and com-
munion, so far at least as the circumstances and the place permit;
and thus with united hands to proclaim the Word of the Lord
not only among our own nationality, but also among the blind
heathen in America. Thus will we all heartily rejoice that the
kingdom of Christ Jesus is more widely extended there. May the
Lord bless the labors of both these ministers abundantly,
strengthen them by the power of the Holy Ghost, and grant that
they may faithfully use their talents to the magnifying of His
Holy Name, to the extension of the kingdom of our Saviour Christ,
and to the conversion and salvation of men.

Heremth concluding, Reverend, Pious, Wise, Discreet, and
Much Beloved Brethren, we commend you all unitedly, and at
the same time the Rev. Domine Bogardus, our colleague and fel-
low-laborer in the work of the Lord, to God and the Word of His
Grace. May He strengthen you in your respective offices and in-
vigorate you with long continued health, to the glory of his Name,
and to your own salvation. Amen. Dated at Amsterdam, April
22, 1642.

By order and in the name of the Rev. Brethren of the Classis
of Amsterdam, the Committee thereof, etc. xxxix. 103, 104.

1642

152 Ecclesiastical Records

[Names not given in the Record Book.]

1642, April 24th.
Eer. James Lanrentius in the Chair.

As the vessels for the East and West Indies, and for New
Netherland, lay ready for sailing, two letters were written, re-
vised, signed, and despatched: one to the East Indies, and one
to New Netherland. But the letter for the East Indies was de-
livered a little too late; and it was deemed unnecessary at this
time to write to the West Indies, as during the previous winter
there had been sent thither full information concerning all the
affairs, xx. 72.

Case of Everardus Bogardus and Lubbertus Dincklagen.

1642, May 5th.

Regarding the case of Rev. Everardus Bogardus versus Lub-
bert Dincklagen, the Rev. Deputati ad causas Indicas stated that
they have already written to the church of New Netherland (New
Amsterdam,) and that they have also investigated the whole mat-
ter, so as to be able to instruct the Classis in accordance with the
foregoing resolution, (of April 7, 1642.) But the case is post-
poned until the arrival of the aforesaid Dincklagen, with whom
the Rev. Deputies will then confer, after which they will make
their report, iv. 253-4; xxxix. 104.

Johannes Megapolensis.

1642, June 2nd.

Concerning the case of John Megapolensis, the Deputed
Brethren report, that in compliance with their desire, they had
proposed to and urged upon the Classis of Alkmaar, the dismissal
of the aforesaid Megapolensis, ancl had also secured the same,
iv. 258; xxxix. 107.

OF THE State of New Yoek. 153

Memorandum for Dominie Johannes Megapolensls, this 3rd June, 1642, proceeding
to the Colonle by the ship De Houttuyn, skipper Adrlaen Dlrcksen Houttuyn.

From the Rensselaerswyck MSS. — His Reverence -will be pleased to take charge
of my people and property, which are at present conveyed over In God's name, In
the ship De Houttuyn. The persons going over will be these: —

Do. Johannes Megapolensls, Jeurlach Bestvaell, van Lr.ydendorp,

Matheld Willemsen, his wife, Claes Jansen, van TVaalwyck,
Hellegond, Dirrick, John, and N. Brabant,

Samuel, his children, Paulus Jansen, van Geertruydenburg, do.

Abraham Staes, surgeon, Hans Vos van Baden.

his servant, Juriaen van Sleswyck, N. Brabant,

Evert Pels, beer-brewer, Hendrlck Albertsen van Wuden,

his wife, 29 years old,

his man, Gertrude Dries, his wife ~j
Cornells Lamberssen, van Doom, 23 years old, I From

Utrecht, farm servant, Hendrlck, Dries, her bro | Driesburg.
Jochim Kettelhuer, van Cremyn, ther, 21 years, J

Johan Helms, van Barltt, N. Brabant,
Johan Carsterssen, van Barltt,

N. Brabant,

It Is to be remembered that this Hendrlck Albertz, for his three; Abraham Staes,
for his two; Evert Pels, for his three, must pay the skipper Adrlaen Dlrcksen for
their board, in the same manner as all the other freemen. But the farm servants
are to come at my expense.

N. B. The book-keeper in the colonle shall usually observe that the expense of
the board of the freemen must be charged to their account, as Director Kleft some-
times places it under one head, altogether to the charge of the Patroon.

He shall take care that these persons embarked on shipboard, and having arrived,
by God's help, at the Manhattans, where the Noble Director Kleft resides, obtain
that they, and my goods, be forwarded to the colonle by the first opportunity, and
provided with food at my expense, and according to my cordial salutations to the
Honorable Director Kleft, which shall be followed.

On the arrival of these persons at the colonle, they shall present themselves first
to the Commissary Arendt van Curler, to be by him registered, and allotted their
work, by and with the advice of the officer Adrlaen van der Donck, who, if eo be
he should have occasion for the services of the two Bredaeise young men, may keep
them by him. Otherwise they are there on my account for closer examination.

Herry Albertzen, who hath equally come home before his time, has allowed me
one guilder per hide for recognition, according to contract made with him. Then
concerning the amount of tobacco over the tenths, (which he hath consented to,) I
have not been able to agree with him. He has been treating with me for the place
of ferry-man, fixing his dwelling by the Beavers Creek, in order to convey the
people to the church neighborhood, (Kerckebuyrte.) and back again from thence.
As the church, the minister's house, that of the officer, and, moreover, of all the
trades-people, (ambachten,) must henceforward be established there, as Abraham
Staes and Evert Pels, the brewer, have undertaken, I am entirely willing, and con-
sent that, with the exception of the farmers and tobacco-planters, who must reside

1642

154 Ecclesiastical Records

at their farms and plantations, no other tradesman, henceforward and after the
expiration of their service, shall establish themselves elsewhere than in the church
vicinage, in the order and according to the plan of building sent herewith; for every
one residing where he thinks fit, separated far from others, would be, uafortu-
nately, in danger of their lives, in the same manner as sorrowful experience has
taught, around the Manhattans, of all which the commissary, Arendt van Curler,
shall give notice to all persons, being called together, so that they may regulate
themselves accordingly. — O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol. i, 451, 452.

June 6, 1642.

Agreement between Kiliaen van Rensselaer and the Directors
of the West India Company, relative to the approval of the call of
Rev. Mr. Megapolensis.

Whereas, differences have occurred between the Directors of
the Amsterdam Chamber of the West India Company and Eliliaen.
van Rensselaer, Patroon of his Colony named Rensselaerswyck,
in New Netherland, as to the approval of the Acte of Commis-
sion granted by the Classis of Amsterdam to Domine Joannes
Megapolensis to be invested with the office of preacher in the
aforesaid Colony of Rensselaerswyck in ISTew Netherland, and as
the ship wherein the said minister must depart lies ready to sail,
60 that periculmn in mora est of injuring the said voyage —
Therefore, the aforesaid Kiliaen van Rensselaer consents that the
said Directors shall affix their approbation to the aforesaid Acte
of Commission, under express protest that he, Rensselaer, shall
not be prejudiced in his right, but the parties on either side shall
remain unprejudiced in their present rights. In witness whereof,
the Directors and Kiliaen van Rensselaer have granted and signed
this present Acte at Amsterdam, this 6th June, XVI hundred
two and forty.

Signed respectively,

Charles Looten,
Elias De Raet.

See also O'Callaghan's New Netherland, i. 449; Munsell's An-
nals of Albany, i. 21, 92.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 155

1642

Catalogue of Books which are sent for the Library In Rensselaerswyck, to be for-
warded there.

IN folio.

1. Biblia Graeca,

2. Concordantia Bibliorum,

3. Opera Calvini, 8 torn.

4. Opera Ursinii,

5. Polyanthea Langii et Gruteri: torn 2.

6. Titus Llvius,

7. Cursus Philosoph. Roderlci de Arriag,

8. Theatrum Terrae Sanctae Christiani

Andrichonii.

IN QUARTO.

1. Adrianl Metii Primum Mobile,

2. Adrianl Metii Arithmet.,

3. Theologia Naturalis Alstedii,

4. Manuale Conciouum, Did. Alrares,

5. Animadversiones in 4 Evang. Lud: de

Dieu,

6. Thesaurus OBconomiae, J. Casi,

7. Petri Rami Arithm. et Geom.,

8. Distinct. Philos. et Theolog. Casta-

ner,

9. Theologia didactica Alstedii.

REMARKS ON THE ABOVE, BY DR. T. BOMEYN BECK.

Folio.
No remarks necessary on 1, 2, and 3.

4. Urslnius, (probably Zachary.) the friend of Melancthon and of Sir Philip Sidney.
Horn in Silesia, in 1534; died, 1583. (Chalmers' General Biographical Dictionary.)

5. John Gruter, (in Latin, Janus Gruterus,) born at Antwerp, 1560; died, 1627. He
edited the Polyanthea of Langius. (Biographic Universelle.)

7. Arriaga, (Roderic de.) A learned Jesuit, native of Castile. Born, 1592; died,
1667. Chancellor of the University of Prague; published, in 1632, a Course of
Philosophy, In one volume. Folio. (Ibid.)

8. Christian, Andrichonius, a geographer of considerable reputation, born at Delft,
In Holland, 1533; died, 1585. The work for which he is best known is Terrae
Sanctae Theatrum et Biblicarum Historiarum, or History of the Holy Laud, illus-
trated by maps. It passed through a number of editions in folio, from 1590 to
1682. (Watt's Bibliotheca Britannica.)

Quarto.

1, 2. Adrian Metius, an able Dutch Geometrician, born at Alkmar, in 1571; died,
1635. His "Treatise on Arithmetic" was published in 1611, in quarto. " I'rimum
Mobile astronomice, sciographice, Geometrice, et hydrographice novi methodo expli-
catum." Amsterdam: Quarto: 1631. (Biographic Universelle.)

3, 9. Alstedius. born at Herborn, county of Nassau, where he became Professor
of Philosophy and Theology. He then went as professor to Weissenburg, in Tran-
sylvania, where he died in 1638. He was a member of the Synod of Dort. A
most indefatigable writer. (Ibid.) Alstedius " Theologia Naturalis " was published

1649

156 Ecclesiastical Records

in 1615 and In 1662 In quarto. (Biographical Dictionary of the Society for the dif-
fusion of Useful Knowledge, vol. 2.)

4. Dldacns (Diego) Alvarez. There vrere two of this name. One a Spanish Do-
minican, Archbishop of Trasii, died in 1635; the other a Spanish Jesuit, died 1617.
I cannot find the above work among the list of their writings.

5. Lewis de Dieu; Protestant Professor in the Walloon College at Flushing. Born,
1590; died, 1642. His work entitled "Animadversiones in quatuor Evangelia," was
published at Leyden, in quarto, in 1631. (Biog. Universelle.)

6. Case, John, M. D., an eminent Physician and Philosopher of Oxford; born at
Woodstock, Bng. ; died, 1600. He published a number of works, among which is
Thesaurus CEconomiae, seu Commentarius in CT>onomia Aristotelis; Oxon. 1597,
1598; Hanov. 1598; 8vo. There is a monument to his memory in St. John's College.
(Watt; also Biog. Diet.)

7. Peter Ramus, a celebrated French Mathematician, born 1515; died, 1572. Pub-
lished "Arithmetica, Graeca et Latina," at Paris, quarto, 1555; " Geometria," at
Basle, quarto, 1596. (Watt.)

8. Henry Lewis Castaneus published a work entitled " Celebriorum distinctionum
tum Philosophicorum et Theologicorum Synopsis." (Watt.) — O'Callaghan's History
of New Netherland, Vol. i. 454, 455.

Classis OF Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

John Cornelisz Backer.
43, 45, 52, 58.

1642, July 21st.

Whereas John Cornelisz Backer has earnestly requested cer-
tain of the Brethren, Deputies ad Causas, that his case should
be pushed with all seriousness with the Messrs. Directors of the
"West India Company, that he may sail as minister to Curacoa
at the earliest opportunity, as was promised him by the Classis:
therefore it was resolved, that to-morrow the Messrs. Directors
shall be addressed about this matter, in order to advance it as
much as possible, xx. 78.

Arrival of Megapolensis.

The Rev. Johannes Megapolensls, " the pious and well-learned minister of th?
congregation of Schoorei and Berge," under the Classis of Alkmaer, was duly called
to disseminate the light of the gospel among the Christians and heathen in the
colonic, and regularly commissioned " to preach God's Word there; to administer
the holy sacraments of baptism and the Lord's Supper; to set an example. In a
Chrlstlan-llke manner, by public precept; to ordain elders and deacons; to keep
and govern, by and with the advice and assistance of the same, God's congregation
In good discipline and order, all according to God's Holy Word, and in conformity

OF THE State of ISTew York. 157

with the government, confession, and catechism of the Netherland churches, and
the synodal acts of Dordrecht."*

The allowance guaranteed to this clergyman was free passage on board for him-
self, his wife and four children, who accompanied him to New Netherland; an
outfit of three hundred guilders, or one hundred and twenty dollars, and an annual
stipend, for the first three years, of eleven hundred guilders, (four hundred and
forty dollars,) thirty schepels of wheat and two firkins of butter, or In place
thereof, should he prefer it, sixty guilders in cash. This salary was to be further
Increased by an addition of two hundred guilders a year, for the second term of
three years, if the Patroon were satisfied with his services. A pension of one hun-
dred guilders per annum was secured to his wife, in case of his demise within the
above term, for and during whatever time might remain unexpired of his engage
ment.

These preliminaries having been thus arranged, an obstacle was unexpectedly
thrown in the way of Mr. Megapolensis' departure by the Directors of the West
India Company, who claimed the exclusive right to approve of his appointment. To
this, however, the feudal lord of Rensselaerswyck demurred; and it was not until
after a lapse of several months that a compromise was agreed to, the Directors
approving of the appointment under protest on the part of Mr. Van Rensselaer,
saving his right as Patroon.

The Rev. Mr. Megapolensis and family embarked, together with Abraham Staes,
surgeon. Evert Pels, a brewer, and a number of other freemen, farmers, and farm-
servants, shortly after this, in the ship the Houttuyn, or Woodyard, which was
freighted with a quantity of goods for the Colonie — between two and three hun
dred bushels of malt for Mr. Pels — four thousand tiles, and thirty thousand stone
for building — besides some vines and madder, the cultivation of which the Patroon
was desirous of introducing among his people. On the arrival of Mr. Megapolensis
at Rensselaerwyck, a contract was concluded for the erection of a dwelling for
himself and family, but the contractor having failed in fulfilling his agreement, a
house belonging to Maryn Adriaensen, constructed entirely of oak, was subsequently
purchased for h\h use, for the sum of three hundred guilders, or one hundred and
twenty dollars.

A church, thirty-four feet long, and nineteen feet wide — the first In this quarter
— was erected in the course of the following year. Though humble In its dimen-
sions, when compared with modern edifices of a similar sacred character, it was
considered, at this time, sutficiently ample for the accommodation of the faithful,
" for the next three or four years, after which it might be converted into a school-
house, or a dwelling for the sexton." A pulpit, ornamented with a canopy, was
Boon added for the preacher, as well as pews for the magistrates and for the dea-
cons, and " nine benches " for the congregation. The expense of all this neces-
sary furniture amounted to the sum of thirty-two dollars. While providing accom-
modation for the living, the dead were not forgotten. The " church-yard " lay In
the rear, or to the west, of the Patroou's trading-house — In what is now very
correctly called " Church " street: and in order " to be safe from the ravages of
the Indians," the Infant hamlet, living and dead, nestled close under the guns of
Port Orange, t

* This gentleman was the sou of the Rev. Johannes Megapolensis. minister of
Coedyck In Holland, and of Hellegond Jansen. He married his cousin Machteld Wll-
lemsen, daughter of William Steengs, or Heengs, who was his senior by three
years. See Appendix J; also Alb. Rec. v., 323. 339.

t The date of the erection of the above church is taken from Van Curler's letter
to the Patroon, dated June. 1643, which will be found translated in part, under
that date. Kieft, when proposing, in 1642, to erect a church in New Amsterdam,

1642

158 Ecclesiastical Records

Synod of Nokth Holland, at Enckhuyzen.

1642, Aug. 12 et seq.
. Art. 34, East and AVest Indies.

In reference to Art. 29, (1641), the Deputati reported, that
certain Deputies from the S;)Tiods of Gelderland, South Hol-
land, Utrecht and Overyssel, handed in to their High Mighti-
nesses a doleantie, in which they complain that the Synod of
North Holland arrogates to itself the care and supervision of
the churches in the East and West Indies; and that such care
ought to be common to all the churches of the United Provinces.
At the same time they request that matters should be so ar-
ranged, that upon the granting of ISTew Charters (to the East
India Company and to the "West India Company) a casus corre-
spondentiam might be decreed, consisting of Deputies from the
Synods of all the United Provinces; that these should have
charge of eveiything necessary for the welfare of the East and
West India churches. Their Honors, however, have given such
instructions to the Eev. Synod of South Holland, that the same
has agreed to (hold) a conference between our (and) their Depu-
ties, in the presence of the corresponding brethren. Finally
the f ollo-wdng proposition was submitted :

To prevent all estrangement and dissensions which would nec-
essarily arise between the respective Synods, so is it, that the

referred to the then contemplated erection of this church in Rensselaerswycli. That
it was erected in 1643. is evident from Megapolensis' tract on the Maquaas, pub-
lished in 1644, in which allusion is made to it. The expense of the pulpit, pews,
etc., is taken from the " Groet Boek der Colonie Rensselaerswyck," anno 1645-6, p.
56, in which we find to the credit of " Willem Fredericksz " the following entry: —
" Voor dat hy in de kerck heeft gemaakt een Predickstool, het verwulf, een
voor de overicheyt, een ditto voor de Diaconie, een cosyn met 2 lichten, een kruys
cosyn dieht gemaackt, en daerin een kusje, een hoeckjo nevens de stool, met een
banck in een wlnckelhaeek, en 9 bancken, te saemen voor. SO fl." This church was
Bufflciently wealthy in 1647, (May 29,) to loan two hundred guilders to the Patroon, ■
for which the Diaconie, or deacons, received the obligation of the colonial court,
payable in one year after date, at ten per cent. See account-book F. Rensselaers-
wyck MSS.; also the obligation itself in the Gerechtsrolle. A new " stoop," or steps,
was added in 1651, to the front of the above building, which accommodated the
faithful until 1656, when a second church was erected at the junction of what are
now State and Market streets. In 1715, a new church was erected on the latter
site, including within its walls that of 1656. The church of 1715 was finally pulled
down in 1806.— O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol. I. 328-331.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 159

charge of, or the correspondence with, the churches in the East
and West Indies shall be maintained by, and left to, all the
respective churches. Classes, and SjTiods, within whose bounds
there are Chambers (of the Companies). They shall carefully
see to it, that the churches in those far distant regions shall
abide by the same doctrine of the truth, and ecclesiastical order
and government as the churches of this land; and until such time
and occasion as shall otherwise be determined at a National
Coetus on the subject, and to the mutual satisfaction of the re-
spective Synods, these following matters are provisionally sub-
mitted and accepted: First: That all the churches and Classes
where the Chambers are located, shall annually make a full
(pertinent) report in their Synods of the state of the churches
in the East and West Indies; what ministers and Ziekentroosters
have been sent thither; and that a summary thereof shall be in-
serted in the Actis Synodibus, and this brought to the knowl-
edge of all the Synods of our land.

2. That the Correspondents shall, at their own expense, take
with them copies of the Classical Acta, and of all other letters
and documents which are of any pertinence to these matters.

3. That whenever any notable difficulties arise in these Indian
Churches, touching Doctrine or Order, and which can not well
be acted on in any one particular Classis or Synod, that then
such difficulties shall be communicated to the several Synods of
these lands, in order to obtain also their decisions thereon; and
in case the matter did not permit any further delay, then the
facts should be made kno^vn to the Revs. Deputies of the sev-
eral Synods.

4. So, also, whenever any individuals from the Classes or
Synods where there are no Chambers (of the Companies) might
be inclined to serve the church of God in the East and West
Indies; such shall address themselves to some Classes or Synod
where there are such Chambers, and if they are provided with

1642

lt30 Ecclesiastical Records

proper certificates as to doctrine and life, caeteris paribus, they
shall always be held in good recommendation.

This proposition the Eev. Synod of South Holland has ac-
cepted provisionally, and the Eev. Brethren, the Correspondents,
have promised to make it known to their respective Synods. On
this occasion was also read a certain writing from the Classis
of Walcheren, (in Zeeland), addressed to this Synod; they have
also sent over their remarks on the abovementioned doleantie,
(complaint) which were submitted to their High Mightinesses.
In these they argue against tliis matter at great length, and
request that these their remarks may be read at this SjTiod, and
be properly considered; also that they may be informed as to
what shall be resolved on in regard to this new proposition of
the aggrieved Synods, as to the care of the churches of the East
and West Indies. Thereupon their remarks were read to the
Assembly. These having been listened to, some of the Rev.
Brethren, the Correspondents, manifested their displeasure at
such manner of ^vriting, and requested a copy.

The Synod after looking into and considering everything well,
in the first place, accepted the aforesaid proposition, drawn up
at the last Synod of South Holland, at Gorkum.

2. They thought that the giving of a copy of that paper from
Walcheren (Chamber at Middleburg on the Island of Walcheren)
might easily cause some unpleasantness, and retard the accept-
ance of the said proposition by the other aggi'ieved Synods. There-
fore the Rev. Brethren, the Correspondents, were requested, in
the interest of peace, to relinquish the demand for a copy; es-
pecially, as the letter from the Classis of Walcheren plainly
indicates that the oft mentioned proposition was not kno\vn to
them at the time; otherwise they doubtless would not have sent
their objections.

3. That the President of the Deputies, Wittewrongel, shall
thank the Rev. Classis of Walcheren for the good correspond-
ence maintained in this instance, and let them know in what

OP THE State of ^ew York. • 161

state this case is now; also that while recognizing their object
as good, the Rev. Synod, nevertheless, could have wished that
they had employed a somewhat gentler and less offensive man-
ner of writing; especially, as the Rev. Brethren, the Correspond-
ents had shown no little displeasure at the same. The Depiit^ti
were also thanked for their diligence and faithful care.*

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

John Jansen Smeet — John Cornelius Backer.

1642, August 19th.

The Rev. Jacob (James) Laurentius, and Matthias Meursius,
reported, that according to their commission, they had been be-
fore the meeting of the Directors of the West India Company,
and had presented before them the name of John Jansen Smeet
as Krankbezoeker, making mention at the same time of the
meagerness of his knowledge of writing, and also of their doubt
whether indeed heretofore he acted as schoolmaster in Brazil,
as he said. Whereupon the Messrs. Directors aforesaid, taking-
no account of these objections, accepted him in the said capacity.
They did also at the same time speak with the said Directors
about the case of John Cornelius Backer. The Classis long ago
resolved to advance him as minister to Curacoa, and then re-
quested their Honors that, if it were possible, they would for-
ward him thither as soon as convenient, inasmuch as he was
getting distressed by the long delay and the consumption of his
means. They answered, that for the present, they saw no op-
portunity of sending him thither, as no ship would sail for Cura-
coa for a long time. They added that a resolution had been
adopted by the Assembly of the Nineteen that they would ac-

• Zeeland stood by North and South Holland, because there were Chambers of
the Companies also In Zeeland. There were no Chambers of the East India Com-
pany In the bounds of the complaining Synods. The West India Company had a
Chamber in the bounds of the Synod of Friesland only, besides those in Holland
and Zoelaud.

1642

162 • Ecclesiastical Recokds

ccpt no more as ministers in their service. But Lav-
ing reflected further on this matter, a few days later they let
some of the Brethren of the Committee (the Deputies) know
that their Honors, through some of their Committee, would once
more enter into negotiations with us in this matter. 'i'liey
wished to in(juire what was best to be done for the satisfaction
and solace of the said person. For long before that resolution
of the Company, he was examined by the Classis with the knowl-
edge and approval of their Honors. Their request was accepted
by the Brethren, xx. 84, 85.

John Cornelisz Backer.

* 1642, Sept. 22nd.

Appeared at the meeting, John Cornelisz Backer. He said
tli.'it lie li:ul spoken with some of the Directors of the West
India Company, and had understood that their Honors had dis-
cussed the question whether they should remove their people
from Curacoa and abandon the island, or whether they should
still keep it. In case they should wish to keep their {xjople
there, thou that they would send him thither as minister. He
requested that the Assembly would please to assist him in this
matter as much as possible. It was now a long time since he
was examined. The Assembly resolves to await the action of
the Directors as to the Island of Curacoa, in order to act properly.

At this same time the Bev. Laurentius and Swalmius told of
a conversation with some of the Directors, in reference to said
John Cornelius Backer, as is indicated on page 84; that, finally,
the Directors presented him for his solace and satisfaction in
one sum, one hundred Ryks-dollars ($100.) They also promised
him, in addition, that in case he should not go as minister to
Curacoa, they would ctnploy liim in tliat capacity on some other
good opportunity, either in (Juinea or at Angola, or at some
other place, only excepting Brazil. Thereupon the said John Cor-
nelisz answered their Honors that he would consider their offer.
The matter for the present remains in this condition, xx. 92.

OF THE State of IvTew York. 163

John Cornelisz Backer.

1642, Oct. 16th.

The Assembly has understood that the Directors of the West.
India Company, at their General Meeting of the Nineteen, had
decided to maintain the Island of Curacoa and their people on
it; that thereupon they had accepted John Cornelisz Backer
to serve there as minister. To this end John Cornelisz Backer
was ordained by the laying on of hands to that same service,
and his Instructions were given him to take with him upon
his intended voyage, xx. 94.

Affairs of the Brethren in Zeeland. ,

1642, Oct. 16th. ^
There shall be communicated to — "The Committee of the
Classis of Zeeland* on the ecclesiastical affairs in the West
Indies " — what our Classis has decided on, in regard to the mat-
ters which were discussed by us and by them, in reference to
the Acta of the Classis of Brazil. Of these mention is made pp.
80, 89, and 93. xx. 96.

To write to Brazil.

1642, Oct. 16th.
At this time a letter shall also be written to the churches
of Brazil, both in regard to the observations on the affairs pre-
viously related, in the Acts of their Classis; as also concerning
the Brazilian pamphlet by Rev. David a Doreslaer, (?) and some
other matters; in reply to their letters sent at various times to
our Classis. xx. 96.

The Church in the Fort.

The church erected by Director Vnn Twlller, had. by this time, shared the fate
common to all the public bnli.linps constructed during his administration, and was
now In such a state of dilapidation, that It was considered nothing better than "a
mean barn ". The necessity of a new church was admitted by the Director and
council so far back as 1640; when, with a view to supply the fund s requisite to

• There was no Synod of Zeeland, but only a Classis.

1642

164 -Ecclesiastical Records

defray the expenses of a new building, a portion of the fines imposed l)y the court
of justice was appropriated to that purpose. But nothing practical eventuated
from this arrangement. The accommodation continued to be of the most wretched
description, when Captain Darld De Vries urged the matter anew on the consider-
ation of the Director General. " It was a shame," he said, " that the English
should see, when they passed, nothing but a mean barn In which public worship
was performed. The first thing they did in New England, when they raised some
dwellings, was, on the contrary, to build a fine church. We ought to do the same,'"
he continued; " we had good materials, fine oak wood, fine building stone, good
lime made from oyster shells, which was better than the lime in Holland." This
reasoning, backed by the intelligence that the colonists of Rensselaerswyck had it
In contemplation to raise a church also, had considerable weight with Director
Kieft. He seemed desirous to leave behind him a monument to perpetuate the
memory of his zeal for religion, and forthwith inquired who should superintend the
good work. There were not wanting " friends of the Reformed Religion." Joachim
Pletersen Kuyter, " who was a good Calvinist, and had a good sett of hands," was
elected deacon, and with Jan Dam, Captain De Vries, and Director Kieft, " formed
the first consistory to superintend the erection of the projected church."

These points having been arranged, the next question to be decided was. the site
of the building. It was ordered to be erected within the fort. But this was looked
upon in the light of " a fifth wheel to a coach," and excited considerable opposition
among the commonalty, who represented that the fort was already " very small,"
and that it stood on the point, or extremity of the island, whereas a more central
position ought to be selected for the accommodation of the faithful generally. It
was, moreover, particularly urged that the erection of a church within the fort,
would prevent the southeast wind reaching the grist-mill which stood thereabout,
and thus cause the people to suffer, especially in summer, through want of bread.*

These objections were, however, overruled. It was with justice remarked that
the building would be more safe from the attacks of the Indians, within than with-
out the fort. As to its being an impediment to the working of the wind-mill, it
was remarked that the walls of the fort then impeded the action of the southeast
wind on the mill, and prevented its working even before the erection of the church.*

Nought, therefore, now remained but to find ways and means to defray the neces-
sary expenses. Director Kieft promised to advance a few thousand guilders from
the public chest. The remainder was to be raised by private subscription.

It happened about this time that the daughter of the Rev. Mr. Bogardus was
being married. This was considered a favorable opportunity for raising the re-
quired subscription. So when the wedding party was in the height of good humor,
and mellow with the host's good cheer, the Director General called on the guests
to subscribe. The disposition to be generous was not wanting at such a time. Each
guest emulated his neighbor, and a handsome list was made out. When the morn-
ing came, a few were found desirous of reconsidering the transactions of the wed-

* Men spraake, dan, van de plaatse waerse staende sonde. De Directeur wllde en
oordeelde datse in het fort staen moest, daerse oock tegens wll en dank van de
andere geset Is; en immers soo wel past als het vyffde wlel aen een wagen; want
behalve dat hot fort cleyn is, op een punct leyt, dat meer importeren sonde in
cas van populatie. De Kercke die de gemeente, diese becostlght hebben, eygen
behoort te wcsen, soo breeckse en beneemt den zuytooston wint aen de koren-molen,
die daeromtrcnt staet; het welcke een mede oorsaek Is, dat men des zomers dick-
wils by gebreek van maalen sondcr broot is Van der Donk.

Eer de kercke gebouwt was, oonde de coornniolon met een zuyt oosten wint niet
malen, doordleu de wint door de wallen van't fort sestut wiert. — Van Tieuhoven's
Answer to Van der Donck.

H H

>^2

55 ^

OF THE State of New York. 165

ding feast. But Director Kieft would allow no such second thought. They must
all pay without exception.*

He entered, as churchmaster, into a contract, forthwith, for the mason-worli,
with John and Richard Ogden, of Stamford, who engaged to build a church of
rock-stone, seventy two feet long, fifty two feet broad, and sixteen feet over the
ground, in a good and workmanlike manner, for the sum of two thousand five hun-
dred guilders, equal to one thousand dollars. The churchmasters were to furnish
the lime; to transport the stone from the river side to the spot where the building
was to be erected; and to allow the use of the company's boat to the contractors,
who were to receive also a douceur of one hundred guilders, equal to forty dollars,
should the work be finished to the satisfaction of the employers. t

With such energy now was the work pushed forward, that the walls soon rose
to their proper height, and the shingle roof soon followed. To commemorate the
zeal both of the Director General and the commonalty on this occasion, a marble
slab was placed conspicuously in front of the building, with the following Inscription

engraved thereon: —

Anno 1642;

willem kieft, DIRECTEUR-GBNERAEL;
" heeft de gemeente desen Tempel doen bouwen." §

1642. The old church had now become dilapidated; and De Vries, dining with
Kieft, told him it was a shame that the English, when they visited Manhattan,

• De Directeur hadde dan besloten een kerck te doen timmeren, en dat ter plaetse
daer het hem goot docht. Het man queert hem aan de penningen; en waer die te
becomen? Het gebeurde om desen tyt, dat den Predikant Everardus Rogardus
eene vrouwvoordochter bestede. Dese gelegeutheyd oordeelde de Directeur een
bequame tyt tot zyn voornemen te wesen, dat hy, naer den vierden off vytt'deu
dronck oock in 't werck stelde, en hy selffs met een goet exempel voorgaende, Het
de bruy-looffsgusten teyckenen, watse tot de kerckgeven wilde. Ider, dan, met een
lichthooffd, teyckende ryckelick wech, de een tegcn de ander; en hoewel het
eenige wel beroude, doen de sinnenweder 't buys quamen, sy moesten even wel
betalen, daer viel niet tegen. — Van der Donok.

t The following is a copy of the contract: — "Appeared before me Cornells van
Tienhoven, secretary in behalf of the General Privileged West iftdia Company, In
New Netherlands, the Honorable Wm. Kieft, Churchmaster, at the request of his
brethren, the Churchmasters of the Church in New Netherlands, to transact, and
ill their name to conclude the following busiuess; So did he, as Churchmaster, agree
with John Ogden, about a church in the following manner: — John Ogden of Stam-
ford, and Richard Ogden, engaged to l)uild, in behalf of said Churchmasters, a church
of rock-sioue, seventy two feet long, fifty feet broad, and sixteen feet high, above the
soil, all in good order, and in workmanlike manner. They shall be obliged to procure
the stone, and bring it on shore near the fort at their own expense, from whence
the Churchmasters shall further convey the stone to the place where it is
intended to build the church, at their own expense. The Churchmasters afore-
said will procure as much lime as shall be re(iuired for the building of the afore-
said church. John and Richard Ogden shall at their own charge pay for the
masonry, etc., provided, that when the work shall be finished, the Churchmasters
shall pay to them the sum of two thousand five hundred guilders, which payment
shall be made in beaver, cash, or merchandise, to wit: — if the Churchmasters are
satisfied with the work, so that in their judgment the two thousand five hundred
guilders shall have been earned, then the said Churchmasters shall reward them
with one hundred guilders more; and the further promise to John and Richard
Ogden to assist them whenever it is In their power. They further agree to facili-
tate the carrying the stone thither, and that John and Richard Ogden may UBei
during a month or six weeks the company's boat; engaging themselves and the
aforesaid John and Richard Ogden, to finish the undertaken work In the manner
they contracted. Done in Fort Amsterdam, in New Netherlands. (Signed) Willem
Kieft, John Ogden, Richard Ogden, Gysbert op Dyck, Thimas Willett." — Alb. Rec.
Hi., 31 These Ogdens are the ancestors of the present families of that name in
New York, New Jersey, etc.

§ "Anno 1642, William Kieft, Director-general; hath the Commonalty caused this
Temple to be built."— Van der Donck. Judge Benson, writing in 1817, says that
when the fort was taken down " a few years since," the marble slab, above alluded

1642

1643

166 Ecclesiastical Records

" saw only a mean barn in which we preached ". " The first thing they built In New
England after their dwelling houses, was a fine church; we should do the like ",
urged De Vries; " we have fine oak wood, good mountain stone, and excellent lime,
which we burn from oyster shells — much better than our lime in Holland *'. De
Vries immediately subscribed one hundred guilders. The Director agreed to advance
" some thousand guilders " on the West India Company's account. For security
against the Indians the church was ordered to be erected within the Fort. At the
wedding of Domine Bogardus' daughter about that time, the Director secured lib-
eral subscriptions. A stone building was erected 72x50 feet, and 16 feet high, at a
cost of twenty five hundred guilders. The honor and the ownership of the work
were both commemorated by a square stone inserted in the front wall bearing the
inscription "A. D. 1642. William Kieft, Director-General, hath the commonalty
caused to build this Temple ". When the foundation of the Fort was dug away in
1790 this stone was found. It was removed to the belfry of the church in Garden
Street, where it remained till both were destroyed in the great fire of December
1835.— Brodhead i. 335-337. See document under July 28, 1649.

The Jesuits in New Yokk, 1642-3.

The Jesuits commenced their labors in Canada a little later than the Dutch
settled in New York. The first Jesuit Missionary who entered within the borders
of the State of New York was Father Isaac Jogues. He was also the first priest
who visited Manhattan Island. He was captured by the Mohawks in 1642 and
treated with great cruelty. He was beaten with clubs and stones; all his finger
nails pulled out, and the fore-finger of each hand gnawed by the savages. They
Journeyed five weeks to reach Central New York, Jogues and the other prisoners
being obliged to carry the baggage of their persecutors. Here Father Jogues had
the thumb of his right hand cut off by an Indian woman, at her chieftain's com-
mand, although she was a Christian. Now also Rene Goupil, a lay brother, who
accompanied Jogues, was killed by the blow of a hatchet.

Father Jogues was at length permitted a little more freedom, and he instructed
some Indians in-the faith and baptized some dying children. He afterward escaped
to the Dutch at Fort Orange, who protected him against the wrath of the Indians,
and finally paid them one hundred pieces of gold for his ransom. This was sub-
sequently remitted to them from France. Domine Megapolensis secreted him until
he went to New Amsterdam. Gov. Kieft kindly received him, and gave him clothes
and lodged him in the Fort. He afterward wrote a description of New Nether-
land. He sailed for France and was received with great honor. He returned to
Canada in 1646, and returned to Central New York and was killed by the Mohawks.
— Bayley's Hist. Catholic Church, 13-15.

Van Curler's efforts to rescue Father Jogues. Rescue of Father Bressani, 1642-1644.

Van Curler's benevolent mind was, however, ill at ease in the midst of these re-
joicings. The Christian captives might be doomed to undergo, in a few days, at the
Btake, all the tortures which savage cruelty and ingenuity combined could invent to
render death more terrific and appalling. Among the prisoners was the mild and

to, was found, with the Dutch inscription on It, burled in the earth, and then re-
moved to the belfry of the church in Garden street. New York, belonging to the
Dutch Reformed Congregation. On the destruction of the latter building by the
great fire 1835, this slab totally disappeared.

The Immediate completion of this church was, however, doomed to be interrupted
by the spirit of faction, and continued misunderstanding with the aborigines, the
progress and ruinous consequences of which it becomes our duty now to relate. —
O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol. 1, 259-263.

OF TUB State of New Yokk. 167

disinterested Father Jogues, a learned Jesuit missionary — " one of the first to carry
the cross into Michigan, and now the first to bear it through the villages of the
Mohawks." Despising ease, comfort, life, and every attachment which nature ren-
ders dear to man, he preferred captivity, suffering, and mutilation, to an abandon-
ment of his tender converts; and now awaited, in resignation and prayer, the crown
of martyrdom for which his soul had so long panted.

To save these unfortunate men, Van Curler called together the chiefs of the dif-
ferent Mohawk castles. He recalled to their minds the friendship and alliance
which had so long existed between them — and demanded the release of their
captives, offering, at the same time, for their ransom, presents to the amount of
six hundred guilders, which, to their honor be it recorded, the Dutch settlers of the
colonic, forgetful of all differences of creed, and actuated by the holy impulses
of the Gospel, had generously subscribed to purchase the freedom of their Christian
brethren. The savages, however, were not to be moved, either by appeals to ancient
friendship, or by the Dutchmen's presents. They were willing to grant to their
allies whatever was in their power, but on the point under discussion they would
remain silent. Curler well knew how the French treated those who fell into their
hands. Had the chief not been successful in his attack, the Iroquois would have
been burnt. For the liberation of the French prisoners he could not treat. In a
few months the warriors of the several nations would assemble, and then th.i
matter would be finally disposed of. All Van Curler could effect was to persuade
the savages to spare the lives of their prisoners, and to promise to restore them
to their country. Escorted by a party of ten or twelve, armed Indians, the Dutch
ambassadors now returned to Beverswyck, their minds filled with admiration of
the lovely country through which they traveled.

The disinterested missionary continued now to solace his captivity by spreading
the light of Christianity through the benighted region into which Providence had
cast his lot. Though his labors were most signally blest, and numbers of converts
were brought into the fold, the hearts of the principal savages continued hardened
against him. In one of his visits with some Indians to Fort Orange, he learned
that inlelligence had been received that the Mohawks were defeated by the French
at Fort Richelieu, and that he, on his return, would assuredly be burnt. The
commander of the fort counselled him, thereupon, to escape. A vessel was about
to proceed to Virginia. There he would be safe. Father Jogues demanded until
the morrow to consider this proposal, " which greatly surprised the Dutch." The
offer was finally accepted, but it was not so easy to evade the vigilance of his
savage companions. Innumerable difl3culties followed. He at length succeeded iu
secreting himself in the hold of a sloop in the river, whose close air and a horrid
stench made him almost regret that he had "not remained among the cruel Iroquois,
who now, enraged at the escape of their victim, crowded to Beverwyck, and de-
manded, with violent gestures and angry words, the surrender of their prisoner.
The Dutch were much embarrassed. They could uot consent to deliver over a
Christian brother to the tortures and barbarities of the heathen. The States Gen-
eral had sent out orders that every means should be used to rescue from the sav-
ages those Frenchmen who might fall into their power. On the other hand, the
colonic was too feeble to make any resistance. In this dilemma the offer was
again renewed to ransom the fugitive; after considerable wrangling, the Indians
accepted this offer, and presents to the amount of about one hundred pieces of gold
were accordingly delivered them. Father Jogues was sent to New Amsterdam,
where he was most kindly received and clothed by Director Kleft, who gave him a
passage to Holland in a vessel which sailed shortly after. But misfortune was not
yet weary of persecuting the Christian missionary. The vessel was driven in a
Btorm on the coast of Falmouth, where It was seized by wreckers, who, as

1642

168 Ecclesiastical Records

merciless as the savages, stripped Father Jogues and his companions of every
article of their wearing apparel, and left them bruised and naked to pursue their
journey as best they could.

In the course of the following year Father Bressani, another Jesuit missionary,
fell into the hands of the Iroquois. " Beaten, mangled, mutilated; driven barefoot
over rough paths, through briers and thickets; burnt, tortured, wounded, and
scarred, he was eye-witness to the fate of one of his companions who was boiled
and eaten. Yet some mysterious awe protected his life, and he too was at last
humanely rescued by the Dutch," who purchased his freedom at a large sum, and,
with true Samaritan kindness, dressed his wounds and nursed him until he was
perfectly convalescent, when they supplied him with clothing, " of which he stood
in much need," and sent him to the Manhattans. Here he was received in the
most hospitable manner by the public authorities, who furnished him, at his de-
parture for Europe, with the following letter of safe-conduct: —

" We, Willem Kieft, Director-General, and the Council of New Nethcrland, to all
those who shall see these presents, greeting: Francis Joseph Bressani, of the Society
of Jesus, for some time a prisoner among the Iroquois savages, commonly called
Maquaas, and daily persecuted by these, was, when about to be burnt, snatched
out of their hands, and ransomed by us for a large sum, after considerable difficulty.
As he now proceeds with our permission to Holland, thence to return to Prance,
Christian charity requires that he be humanely treated by those into whose hands
he may happen to fall. Wherefore we request all governors, viceroys, or their
lieutenants and captains, that they would afford him their favor in going and
returning, promising to do the same, on like occasion. Dated in Fort Amsterdam,
in New Netherland, this 20th September, anno Salutis, 1644, Stylo Novo."

These and many other acts of similar kindness secured ever afterwards, for both
the inhabitants and authorities, as well of Rensselaerswyck as of New Netherland
generally, the warm attachment and regard of the Jesuit missionaries, who at the
risk of health and life were disseminating the truths of the Gospel among the
Indian tribes in the valley of the Mohawk, and along the shores of the great lakes,
and who, it may be safely said, allowed no occasion to pass without giving expres-
sion to their gratitude and respect. — O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol.
1. 334-337.

1643, May 6.
Inventory of the personal property of the widow Bronck at Emaus.

Among the many items enumerated the following books are mentioned: — One
Bible, folio; Calvin's Institutes, folio; Bullingeri. (Opera.); Schultetus Dominicalla.
(Medical); Moleneri Praxis, quarto. (Moral and Practical Discourses); One German
Bible, quarto; Mirror of the Sea (Seespiegel), folio; One Luther's Psalter; Sledani,
folio. (History of Reformation); Danish Chronicle, quarto; Danish Law-Book,
quarto; Luther's Complete Catechism; The Praise of Christ, quarto; The Four Ends
of Death; Petri Apiani; Danish Child's Book; Forty Pictures of Death, by Symoi»
Golaert; Biblical Stories; Danish Calendar; Eighteen Dutch and Danish Pamphlets;
Seventeen Books In Manuscript; Eleven Pictures, large and small.

This Inventory was made in the presence of Rev. Everardus Bogardus. — Co).
Docs. N. Y. XIV. 42, 43.

Van Curler's Letter to the Patroon.
Laus Deo. At the Manhattans, this 16th June, 1643.

What the Lord, my master, commands me to receive in good regard the counsel
of Domine Megapolensis; and therein to follow his Reverence's advice — I have
never failed so to do, but have always communicated to him whatever occurred

OF THE State of jSTew York. 169

here, to have his opinion thereupon ere I concluded to uudertalie anything, aud
have always thankfully received his Reverence's counsel. Further, I shall use my
utmost diligence to collect the rest and to post all the debits and credits, (schuldeu
en wederschulden,) Beavers and Seawan. I shall then, without fall, send you all
by the next opportunity. As to what appertains to the duffels, I have, in all I
received, not perceived any damage worth mentioning, but got them in good con-
dition.

1643

As for the Church, it is not yet contracted for, nor even begun. I had written
last year to your Honor, that I had a building almost ready, namely, the covenanted
work, which would have been for Domine Megapolensis; and this house was not
agreeable to the taste of Domine Johannes; in other respects it was altogether
suitable for him, so that I have laid it aside. That which I intend to build this
summer in the pine grove, (in het Greynen Bosch,) will be thirty four feet long by
nineteen feet wide. It will be large enough, for the first three or four years, to
preach in, and can afterwards always serve for the residence of the sexton, or for a
school. I hope your Honor will not take this ill, as it happened through good in-
tention. — O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol i. 456, 457, 459.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Clmrches in England.

1643, July 27th.

In aid of the suffering churches in England, the following
measures are found good and necessary:

1. Earnestly and fervently to pray for the same in public and
private.

2. To urge upon their High and Great Mightinesses (i. e. the
States-General and the several Provincial States, separately,)
days of public fasting and prayer.

3. Also to beseech the same to contribute all that is within
their power for the advocacy and preservation of the Holy Gos-
pel in all verity, iv. 294.

Already Xew England had begim to desire that these exiles

in England and Ireland should be sent to America, as appears

from the following:

1643, Feb. 10, X. S.

Petition of the Inliabitants of New England to the House of
Commons, for a Collection.

They ask for a collection in the parishes in and about London,
for two Lords days, for the transporting of poor children driven

1643

170 Ecclesiastical Records

out of Ireland, and other orphans in England. The request was
granted.

The Major of London arranged for these collections to pay
the transportation of boys and girls to ISTew England. Argu-
ments and recommendations are presented.

Documents 2704, 2705, 2706, in Archives of London Dutch
church; pages 1907-S.

NOTE ON HUGH PETERS, 1643.

It was in this year that Rev. Hugh Peters visited Holland. — He was born of an
old English family in 1599, and graduated at Cambridge, 1622. He was ordained
by Dr. Mountain, Bishop of London, but on account of his opposition to the Bishops,
retired to Holland, and officiated in the English congregation at Rotterdam. In
1643 he went to New England, and was elected minister at Salem, and officiated also
in Boston. In 1641 he was sent by the colonies to England, on official business
with Parliament, in reference to the boundary between New England and New
Netherland. He found the civil war raging in England and joined the Parliamen-
tarians. In 1G43 he again visited Holland, and preached so violently against Charles
I. that the English Ambassador complained of him to the States-General. He gave
a series of discourses in the English Congregation in Amsterdam, accusing Charles
of exciting the Catholics of Ireland against Cromwell, so that women gave their
wedding rings to supply the English under Cromwell with funds. The Dutch were
not opposed to his actions. Peters subsequently became chaplain to Cromwell, and
is said to have thanked God for the Drogheda massacre. After the restoration
Peters was accused as one of the regicides, and he was put to death in 1660. — See
Bancroft's U. S. ii. 32.

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

(Brazil.)

[Rev. J. T. Polhemus was from 1635-1654 in Brazil.]

July 31, 1643.

From the Acta of the Coetus preparatorii ad Synodum, held in
Brazil, at Recyst, ISTovember 12, 1642.

There appeared also at this session one of the Councillors of
India, being deputed thereto.

Art. 10.

Complaint is made, that there have not been sent to them the
Acta of the Synod of JN'orth Holland, since the year 1637. They
also promise that they will make an effort to send theirs.

OF THE State of ^ew York. lYl

Art. 13.

1648

The pavment of the ministers has been remedied. Hereto-
re tl
sailors.

fore their salaries were taken from the wages of soldiers and

Art. 16.

In the case of the Jews, nothing else has been done, except
only that blaspheming has been forbidden. A rule has also been
established that their men servants and maid servants may not
be Christians. And the Popish (services?) ought to be limited
within their churches.

Art. 20.

It is requested that six or seven more ministers may be sent to
them.

Art. 41.

The ministers have been denied their housing; or these have
been taken by the Company.

Art. 47.

Rev. de Varix is judged unfitted to serve any churches in
Brazil, as it is declared that he has never produced any edification.

Art. 69.

How those shall be regarded Avho were baptized by Siecken-
Troosters, and by others who are not ministers, and whether
these must be rebaptized; the advice of the Synod of North Hol-
land is asked on this subject.

Art. 29.

Lack of Siecken-Troosters, Schoolmasters and large Bibles
is referred to.

Art. 80.

Rev. Oosterdach, who came out from South Holland, is dis-
charged from his service.

1643

172 Ecclesiastical Records

Art. 89.

A resolution is referred to about bringing the judicature
(trial?) of cburch matters to the civil (power?); but it is under-
stood that this must not be done. The Hon. Directors shall
be remonstrated ^vith on this subject.

Art. 90.

It was resolved, that the representatives of the civil power (lit.
the Politicals) shall not be permitted to appear in Classes and
Consistories; but only at Synods. The cutting off of corre-
spondence is sought by the Politicals, but the Synod shows its
inclination for such correspondence.

Art. 12, in the order of Synod.

Mention is made of the writing and sending of the Synodical
Acta, to Classes and Churches; but nothing is said of the
Fatherland.

Acta of the Synod of Brazil held February 29, 1643.

Art. 47.

Rev. Doomich is dismissed from his charge in Pariba, and
declared unable (physically) to do any more service in churches
of the West Indies; on that account he shall be sent back to his
congregation in the Fatherland.

ISTo '^ Censura Morum " was held.

Letter to the Rev. Classis of Mauristad, (in Brazil?) March. 24,

1643.

They are surprised about our poor reformations, and that we
should not have accepted these, against them (?)

They refer themselves to the first Art , on the

subject of the sitting of Civilians in Church Assemblies.

|i • OF THE State of IsTew York. 173

31643

They complain of the harshness of the censures of the Classis

of Amsterdam.

They declare themselves to be a Reformed Church.

They accuse us of Cayture (?)

Letter from Francis Plante, in the ISTame of their last General

Assembly.

They say that they have need of more Siecken-Troosters.
That we should take heed to have only capable Schoolmasters.
That they are still awaiting the Bibles.
Excuse is made for the pamphlet of Doom. xx. 114-116.

Synod of ISTokth Holland, at Edam.

1643, Aug. 11 et seq.

Art. 3. Ecquest of the Revs. Deputati Synodi.

The Rev. Deputati of our Synod requested that their fellow
Deputies, who are with them entrusted with the business of
'^ Preachers practicing medicine " might be written to for Thurs-
day, so that they might be able to render a proper report on
what has been done on this subject. It was resolved to summon
the said fellow Deputies ad causani for the time stated, and to-
write to those outside of this city.

Art. 27. East and West India Affairs.

Under Art. 34, (1642), of East and West India Affairs, the
Rev. Deputati Correspondents are recommended to do their best
in their o^^nl (Synods), that the Articles proposed and agreed to,
for the accommodation of the several Synods, may be accepted
by their (Synods).

On this same occasion it was also ascertained, that the Rev.
Synod of South Holland had resolved to instruct their delegates
to the corresponding Synods, to try to induce the objecting
provinces to accept of the Articles which have been put into
practice and approved by the respective Synods.

:i634

174 Ecclesiastical Records

It is found advisable this same week to have an interview
with (to go to) those of South Holland, in order to arrive at the
"desired agreement; also that our Deputati ad correspondentiam
336 furnished with reasons.

And, in accordance with the first proposition, it was asked
in reference to these Articles agreed on, whether the several
^churches or Classes within whose bounds are located the Cham-
laers of the Companies, ought not to inform this present Synod
as to the condition of the churches in the East and West Indies,
by way of report, (tot opening). The Rev. Brethren of Enck-
huysen declared that in this business nothing had occurred in
particular. The Brethren of Hoorn said likewise. But the
Rev. Brethren of Amsterdam exhibited many and various papers
touching the state of the East and West India Churches. Also
the aforesaid Rev. Brethren of Amsterdam, read an extract
about East and West India Affairs. It was resolved, that the
respective Classes within whose bounds are located Chambers
(of the Companies) shall remain enjoined henceforth, in this
same manner, to make a report to Rev. Synod, in conformity
with those words of the project of the 34th Article, (1642);
and that such reports shall be inserted imder the extracts of
Synod.

Art. 30. Exiles from Ireland.

A letter was read from two ministers who had been driven
out of Ireland, William Davidzoon, and Alexander Junius,
wherein was represented their distressed and precarious condi-
tion. They requested therewith, in an enclosed paper, that some
eubsidium might be granted them in their very pressing need.
It was resolved that they be granted, in conformity with the ac-
tion of the Synod of South Holland, a proper amount, (sum-
metie, sommetje?) with the announcement that they must hold
themselves contented therewith, and not annoy our churches
individually.

OF THE State of Xew Yokk. 175

1643

Art. 54. Churches of England.
II. That this VENEEANDA SYNODUS, according to the
duty enjoined by " The Communion of the Saints ", and after
the example of the churches of Zeeland, South Holland, and
Switzerland, would be pleased to consider, and look about, for
ecclesiastical methods, to aid and solace, in an ecclesiastical man-
ner, the churches in England, Scotland and Ireland. These are
at present in the utmost need and peril. The same also form-
erly, when our churches of the Fatherland were in need and af-
fliction, interested themselves faithfully in them.

Answer: The VENEKANDA SYNODUS — having learned
the application to their Noble Great Mightinesses, (the Pro-
vincial States), made through the Estimable, the Messrs.; the
Commissioners, (the civil magistrates in Synod); and that their
Estimables would manage the business of the churches in Eng-
land, Scotland (and Ireland) in such a way that the same would
be left in statu, even as it is now, — declared its good wishes,
and inclinations to aid and solace the said churches in an ecclesi-
astical manner, and by ecclesiastical methods. They therefore
requested that their Estimables would make these things known
to their Noble Great Mightinesses, and the decision of their
Koble Great Mightinesses shall be awaited.

Art. 57. Individual Question by Amsterdam.
1

2. Baptism by Ziekentroostcrs.

What shall be held regarding the baptism administered by
Ziekentroostcrs? Among these are some who are authorized to
baptize by the Classis of Amsterdam; and there are (baptisms)
by others, who are not ministers; — whether these are to be
rebaptized?

Answer: This matter was referred to the several Classes.
When these have been heard from, a Synodical advice will be
drawn up.

1643

176 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

1643. Extracts from Acts of the Corresponding Synods,

Art. 17. The (Synod) of Gelderland, 1642.

Regarding the general direction of the East and West India
churches, the Eev. Synod (of Gelderland) understands that this
business shall be placed, generally, under the Synods of all the
Provinces; and so far as this could not be brought about, the
Deputati Synodi shall address themselves to the iN'oble Court,
(Hof — Legislature), of Gelderland to issue letters to their rep-
resentatives at The Hague, in the States General, so that this
point may be taken notice of, in the petition for the prolonga-
tion of the Charters of the said Companies.

Extracts from the Synod of South Holland, at Brielle, 1643.

The plan for the care of the East and West India Churches
shall be made palatable to the objecting provinces by acquiesc-
ing therein for the present, (in als een interim), until another
arrangement can be made at a general Coetus. The Remon-
strance of both Synods, with the prodromus (?) has been handed
over, and their Noble Great Mightinesses have placed the same
in the hands of the ISToble Court to serve it by way of advice.

Upon the proposal of the Rev. Brethren from Zeeland regard-
ing the distressed state of the churches in England (Scotland)
and Ireland, their High Mightinesses (the States General) re-
solved, that the respective Synods shall be given a copy of the
intercession by the States of Zeeland, as also of the creditive of
the delegates, and of the plans as proposed, so that these may
be more fully communicated to their respective bodies.

To the West India Churches shall be communicated in writ-
ing the displeasure at the printed booklets; and that they do not
possess such Synodical liberty as they imagine they do. . . . . . . . .,

As yet the decision, (arrest) on the regulation (Constitution)
regarding the English preachers, shall not be requested; but where

OF THE State of New York. 177

they are, and have independent (gesloten, closed) Consistories and
lawful calls, the Classes are permitted to ask them to come under
their jurisdiction.

England and Ireland shall be frequently prayed for, and also
be placed in the petition for days-of -prayer, in genere " Oppressed
Churches ", if the^STorth Holland Sjaiod doth also so resolve; and
the resolution of their Noble Great Mightinesses (the Provincial
States) does not militate against this petition, (which shall first be
av.'aited.)

Extracts Ex actis Synodi of Utrecht, held Anno 1642.

Eev. Keselius sent to the Synod the Ecclesiastical Acta of
Brazil, of the year 1636 to 1641, inclusive.

Extracts Ex actis Synodi of Friesland held at Bolswart, 1643.

The plan regarding the care of the East and West India
Churches was communicated to Synod, and placed in Actis

Extracts Ex actis Synodi of Overyssel, held at Deventer, 1643.

The short Catechism of the Synod of Zeeland shall not be in-
troduced for the youth in the schools; but besides the Heidelberg
Catechism, only the small Catechism at the back of the Psalm
Book, shall be used.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Letter from London.

1643, August 31st.

Finally, there was read the letter which had been received from

many Reformed ministers in London, in behalf of the distressed

churches in Ireland, where more than 150,000 have been mur-
12

1643

1648

178 Ecclesiastical Records

dered, driven away, or have otherwise perished in some miserable
manner, while those who are left still run the risk of perishing
from hunger and want. It is, therefore, requested, by said minis-
ters, of the minister of the English (Presbyterian) Church,* in this
city (of Amsterdam,) to make a statement of this distress to all
the N'etherland churches, that they come to their aid with all
possible means. It was resolved to come to the assistance of
these churches as quickly as possible, with collections, as has been
done in the case of other suffering churches, and to inform the
Eev. Synod (of ISTorth Holland) of this need, and of our resolu-
tion thereon, together vnth the communication of the letter, al-
though with all prudence, iv. 295.

Alms for the Irish Churches.

1643, Sept. 7th.

Three letters were presented which had come from England.
One, from the committee of Parliament, on Irish affairs; one from
the Consensus Theologus at London; and one from Rev. Dr.
Frisissus (?). These give the information that Irish Papists, or
rebels in Ireland, within four months have mutilated and mur-
dered 154,000 of our brethren in the faith, and are seeking to
wipe out the remainder, not only there, but throughout the whole
world. Wherefore they request and beseech that the churches
of these provinces, in accordance with their customary compas-
sion and liberality towards others, would be pleased also to be-
stow their Christian alms, in this direction, for the preservation
of the brethren in the faith in Ireland. This was sympathetically
acceded to by the Eev. Classis. It was unanimously resolved,
that the officers of each (church) shall do their utmost to collect
the greatest amount of alms possible. In order to transmit this

* This was Rev. Theodore Paget [Latinized into Pagetus,] who settled over the
Presbyterian Church in Amsterdam, on the Begyn-Hof, In 1639. In 1646 he removed
to another field. His name frequently occurs in the Minutes of the Classis of.
Amsterdam.

OF THE State of New York. 179

money safely, it shall be delivered into the hands of the comr
mittee on this business in London, through the Rev. Professor
Wittenwrongel, Eev. Matthew Meursius and Isaac Van Beeck,
the deputies of the Classis on this matter. But all this shall be
done under these special securities and conditions:

1. That what is donated shall be given purely as Christian alms
for the suffering fellows-in-the-faith, in Ireland,

2. That there shall be obtained from them a particular receipt
and acknowledgment, upon the delivery of the moneys, wherein
the recipients shall make it clear, that these donations, for suf-
ferers in Ireland, have been duly received, under the conditions
aforesaid.

Hereupon there appeared two representatives of the above
mentioned Committee of Parliament, viz., Sir Adam Lawrence,
and Maurice Thompson, who confirmed by word of mouth what
is related above, and requested a liberal alms, if possible, in aid
of the churches in Ireland. The sympathetic resolution of the
Classis was then made kno\vn to them, for which, friendly (thanks

were offered) by them, and they took their leave

The Acta adopted by the Provincial Synod (of ISTorth Holland)
were read, and whatsoever concerned this Classis was observed,
and noted for further discussion at the next Classis. iv. 297-8.

Collection for England.

(1643,) 'Nov. 13, 10.

In view of the fact that there has been ordered by their noble
(Jreat Mightinesses, (the Provincial States,) a public collection
for the distressed members of Christ in Ireland, in the churches
of this province, and the need of the same is great; the Rev. Mr.
Wittenwrongel proposes, whether it would not be well tliat this
work of love were pushed as rapidly as possible in the respective
churches of this Classis, and the moneys handed to Isaac van
Beeck, elder in Amsterdam. It was learned that this had already
been diligently done, and liberally by several churches. The

180 Ecclesiastical Records

1643

others were exhorted to hasten the work as rapidly as possible.
Revs. Meursius and "Wittenwrongel, who had been appointed bj
Classis to keep account of the moneys and deliver the same, were
urged to secure the distribution of the same, as soon as possible^
for the assistance and relief of those distressed (church) mem-
bers, iv. 300.

Letters from the Synod of London,

1644, April 4th.

Rev. Wackendorssius, as deputy from this Synod, hands in a
certain letter from the Synod of London, addressed to the Classis
of North Holland. Therein, after a vivid recital of the sad state
of the church of God in that land, two things are requested of the
churches of this Synod: First, the Christian prayers, of these
(Dutch) churches, are earnestly besought in their behalf, in their
sad state; Secondly, as might be determined on by the church here
(in Holland).

The Covenant between England and Scotland was also read.
Thereupon, it was resolved to send this letter, after it has been
recorded by the clerk for the use of the Classis, to the other Classes,
and to propose that each Classis would appoint two (of its mem-
bers) to consult with the regular deputies as to the character of
the reply (to be sent to London). Also the regular Deputies were
requested to inform the Rev. Body (the Synod of London) as soon
as possible, of the receipt of their letter, and to promise them all
good will. This Classis provisionally nominated the Rev. Presi-
dent and Rev. Wittenwrongel, to treat with the Deputies of the
other Classes as to the full response to the aforesaid letter, iv,
303.

Collection for Ireland.

1644, April 4th.

The Acts of the Classis of October 5th last, (September 7.
? 1643), and specially those items which refer to the collections
of this Classis, for the distressed members of Christ in Ireland^

OF THE State of New Yoek. 181

■were read over again. Rev. Wittenwrongel and Meursius gave
the information that most of the churches had done their share in
this business, and the few others will yet do the same. The said
Brethren promised to bring in a complete account thereof as soon
as possible. Also on motion of Thomas Cave, elder in the English
(Presbyterian) church here (at Amsterdam,) it was resolved that
the moneys in this Classis be expended here, in this land (Hol-
land) for victuals and other necessities, iv. 304.

(The English and Scotch churches in Holland were members
of the Dutch Classis. Food was also cheaper in Holland.)

Lubbert Dincklagen.

1644, April 4th.

A letter was read from Lubbert van Dincklagen, making re-
quests that complaints which might be renewedly made against
him, should be made known to him, that he might answer them.
Also that Rev. Bogardus be summoned hither. It was resolved
to await the arrival of Rev. Everardus Bogardus, and then to sum-
mon Lubbert van Dincklagen. The clerk will inform him of this
action, iv. 304; xxxix. 120.

Letters from the Synod of London.

1644, May 2nd.

In reference to the letter of the Rev. Synod of London, it was
reported that the same had been copied by the clerk for the use
of this Classis. Rev. Wackendorssius also sent a copy of the same
to the other Clas^Bcs of this Synod, but has, as yet, received no an-
swer. And inasmuch as no reply, in acknowledgment of the re-
ceipt of this letter has yet been sent to that same Rev. Body (the
Synod of London) , it was resolved that the Rev. Deputy Wacken-
dorssius shall again communicate with Rev. Deputy Puppius, to
send the receipts (recepisse, acknowledgments) as soon as possi-
ble. If any objection be raised by him, such acknowledgment shall
be made by Rev. Wackendorssius, and the two brethren of this

1644

182 Ecclesiastical Records

Classis heretofore charged with the full reply, as soon as possible^
and in nomine hnjiis Classis. iv, 306.

Collection for Ireland.

1644, May 2nd.
In reference to the collections for Ireland, the accounts of Revs.
Wittenwrongel and Meursius have been brought in. What each
church had contributed, was read, amounting altogether to the
sum of florins 22,451f ($8,980.50 cts.) Everything was per-
fectly exhibited m writing. The two brethren of the committee,
as well as Mr. Isaac van Beeck, were thanked for their trouble.
They remained charged with the duty of procuring a receipt from
the parties in Ireland, iv. 305.

Catalogue of the Classis.

1644, May 2nd.

The clerk inquires whether the catalogue made up by order of
Classis, should not be recorded, (literally, placed in the book;)
also, whether any one should be put down as not in his proper
location. Reply was made that it should be recorded, even as it
was read. iv. 307.

(There are no lists of ministers and churches in the Minutes of
the Classis of Amsterdam; but such lists came to be written on
the fly leaves of the buccessive volumes. These were amended from
time to time, as changes took place, but dates were not always
added. The erasures and additions made these lists often very
difficult to read. A few of these in the earlier volumes were
copied, but there are no allusions to America.)

Dincklagen.

1644, May 2nd.

The letter of Lubbert van Dincklagen has been answered by the
clerk, iv. 307.

OF THE State of New York. 18P*

RepJ V to the Letter of the London Synod.

1644, June 13th.

In regard to the reply to the letter of the Rev. Wackendorssius
reports, that he had written to the Rev. Puppius to send a receipt
(acknowledgment) to the said Rev. Synod but that Rev. Puppius
still objected. It was resolved that the said acknowledgment,
(recepisse,) in accordance with the preceding resolution, should
be drawn up by the brethren designated, so that our sympathy
with their sad condition may be made known to them; also that
the arrival of the Rev. Puppius shall yet be awaited to-day. The
draft of the acknowledgment, meantime having been composed,
may be examined by the Classis. Rev. Times shall fill the place
of Rev. Anthonides. iv. 309.

Reply to the Letter of the London Synod.

1644, June 13th.

The brethren deputed to draw up a reply (recepisse) to the letter
of the Rev. Synod of London, read a written Latin reply composed
by them, which pleased the Classis. It was resolved to forward
the same as soon as possible to the same Rev. Synod, in the name
of this Classis. iv. 311.

Letter to London Synod.

1644, July lYth.

Rev. Wittenwrongel handed in a copy of the letter, which was
written and sent, in the name of this Classis to the Rev. Synod
of London. It was resolved to preserve this in the Classical chest
(keep on file.) iv. 314.

Synod of North Holland, at Alckmaer.

1644, Aug. 16 et seq.

Art. 28. East and West India Affairs.

Regarding Article 27, relating to the East and West India
Affairs; it has been ascertained that the Synods of Gelderland,
Utrecht and Overyssel were not yet fully contented. It was re-

1644

184 Ecclesiastical Recokds

solved that, in conformity with the action of South Holland, we
shall continue, as before, to make the Plan, provisionally, pala-
table, through the Deputies of Synod ad Correspondentias. It
was then asked, in turn, whether the Classes, where there are
Chambers, had anything to communicate to the Synod. It was
ascertained that nothing had been received, because no ships had
arrived. The Classes of Amsterdam and Enkhuysen reported the
names of those who had been sent out as preachers and sieken-
troosters to the East Indies. — These had been sent out by, Amster-
dam:

Rev. Goergius Candidius, to Tajoucken, ) .

Rev. John a Briel, to Batavia, \

As Zieckentroosters, the following:

Lawrence Zacharias.

Cornelius Willemsen.

Paul Jansen.

Alexander Abrams.

Dirck Vermeule.

Reynier Adriaensen.

Jacob Claessen Schoenmaker.

And as minister to Muscovy, Rev, John Gaiwinckel, to Thoula ;
from Enckhuysen as Ziekentrooster to the East Indies, Hein
Jansen.

At the same time it was asked of the Rev. Deputies of the Classis
of Amsterdam, whether the ministers and siekentroosters on re-
turning home again to the Fatherland, ought not to present them-
selves and show their certificates to the Classes by whom they
were sent out. The Rev. Synod resolved to charge the respective
Classes, where there are Chambers, to take heed to this.

Art. 36. Letters from London to be answered.

It was resolved that the letter sent to the Classes of our Synod
by the Rev, Synod at London, the contents of which have been

* OF THE State of !N"ew Yokk. 185

1644

made known to all the respective Classes, through the copies here-
with furnished to the Classes, shall be answered nomine hujus
Sjnodi. To draft this letter, Eev. Correspondent of South Hol-
land, Peter Cabbeljauw is invited ; and Eev, Deputati Sjnodi
nostri, John Puppius, and with him, Pev. Adrianus Snellius. The
copy of the same shall be inserted at the back of the Acta of
Synod.*

Art. 42. Baptism by Siekentroosters.

To the second question of Amsterdam, — See on the same Art.
57, (1643) — "What shall be held as to the baptisms administered
by Siekentroosters, etc. It is understood that the opinions of the
respective Synods are, that baptism by Siekentroosters is to be
held of no value. As to the matter of rebaptising ? The Synod
refers this to the answers to the Questione particularia vige simani
nonan Synodi l^ationalis, held at Dordrecht Anno 1578. — (This
was the first ISTational Synod ever held in Holland, 1578.)

Art. 52. 1644 — p. 21. Greek Letter.

Deputati Synodi nostrae are ordered to communicate a certain
Greek letter handed in b}^ the Estimable Commissioner Dedel,
sent to this Synod by the Bishop of Ephesus, Meletius Pantagolus,
to Revs. Deputati of South Holland, in order to act conjunctim
with the same pro re nata.

Book of Guilielmus Apollonius, on Church Government, sent
from Holland to the Westminster Assembly.

Oct. 16, 1644.
Title.

Consideratio quanmdam Controver&iarum ad Pcgimcn Eccle-
siae Dei spectantium, quae in Angliae Regno hodic agitantur. Ex
mandato et jussu Classis Walachrianae conscripta a Guilielmo

• A photographic copy of this letter, embracing five closely written pages, was
secured from the copy In the records. Vol. 52, 111. p. 29, at 100 Java straat, in the
Hague.

186 Ecclesiastical Records

1614

Apollonii Verbi Dei apud Middelburgensis Ministro. Et ab

Ecclesiis Walachris ad Ecclesianim suarinn sensiim et consensum

judicandum transmissa ad Sjnodum Londinensem 16 Octobris

Anni 1644.

(Translation.)

A Consideration of certain Controversies at this time agitated
in the Kingdom of England concerning the Government of the
Church of God Written at the Command and appointment of the
Walachrian Classis by Guilielmus Apollonii, Minister of the Word
of God at Middelburgh. And sent from the Walachrian churches,
to declare the sense and consent of their Churches to the Synod
of London, Oct. 16, 1644, JST.S. Translated out of the Latin,
1645. — See Corwin's Manual of Reformed Church, 1879, page
xii, note. Also Steven's Dutch Ecc. Establishment, and his His-
tory of the Scotch Church of Rotterdam.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Letters from Curacoa and Angola. Johannes Backerus.

1644, Nov. 7th.

A letter was read from John Backerus, minister at Curacoa,
relating to the state of the Church on the said island also, another,
from Rev. Jacobus Beth, minister at Angola. Each asked what
they must do in reference to baptizing the children of heathen.
It was resolved that the clerk look up the resolution of the Synod
on this subject, and report the same at the next Classis. iv. 335.

Acts of the Deputies.

Service of the Church in the West Indies.

(1644.)

Regarding the Sacred Ministry in the Churches in the West
Indies, it was resolved that Revs. Deputies ad res Indicas shall
make request of the XIX (the Executive Committee of the
West India Company) that we may be allowed to look about

OF THE State of New York. 187

for some capable ministers, in order to dispatch them thither at
the earliest opportunity. And in doing this, we must inform
them, that there is danger from the great necessities of the field,
that persons of all sorts of character, and therefore but little fit
for so worthy an ofiice, may seek that position and be advanced
thereto, xxxix. 137.

Book on the Mohawk Indians, by Rev. John Megapolensis.

1644.

Rev. John Megapolensis wrote the following: ''A short Ac-
count of the Mohawk Indians, their country, language, figure,
costume, religion and government. Written and despatched from
N'ew ISTetherland, AugT^st 26, 1644, by J. M., minister there.
"With a brief account of the Life and Manners of the Stapongers
in Brazil ".

This was published at Alkmaer, by Ysbr. Jansz v. Houten, 8vo.
pp. 32. 1651, without the author's consent. Translations may
be found in Hazard's State Papers i. 517-526 ; and in the Histori-
cal Collections of the State of ISTew York, iii. See also Duyck-
inck's Cyc. Lit. i. 80.

Rev. Richard Denton.

Those New England settlers who preferred Presbyterianlsm to Independency,
drifted southward, through Connecticut and Long Island into New Jersey. Rev.
Richard Denton was one of these. He came from England in 1630, with a largo
part of his congregation, and settled at Watertown, Mass. Denton was a Presby-
terian by choice. He was graduated from Cambridge in 1623, and was subsequently
pastor of Cooly Chapel. He was driven out of Massachusetts on account of opposi-
tion to his Presbyterian ways. He removed to Hempstead, Long Island, in 1644,
but there he experienced the same troubles. The Independents and Presbyterians
did not then harmonize well. In 10.36 two of Denton's sons purchased lands of the
Indians and founded Jamaica. They seem to have had a Church from the start,
for as early as 1G62 they provided a parsonage. In 1710, George McNlsh was called
as eighth pastor of Jamaica. The last notice of that Presbyterian Church at Hemp-
stead is 1729. The history of the Jamaica Presbyterian Church Is unbroken. Den-
ton was a man of more than ordinary talent and ability. — Hays, 64.

New JSTetherland 1614-1639. — Historical Extract.

Report of the Board of Accounts on New Netherland. 1644.

Report and Advice on the Condition of New Netherland, drawn up from docu-
ments and papers placed by commission of the Assembly of the XIX., dated 15th
of December, 1644, in the hands of the General Board of Accounts, to examine the

188 Ecclesiastical Records

eame. to make a digest thereof, and to advise the Assembly how the decay there'
can be prevented, population increased, agriculture advanced, and that country
■wholly Improved for the Company's benefit.

New Netherland, situate in America, between English Virginia and New England,
extending from the South River, lying in thirty four and a half degrees, to Cape
Malabar, in the latitude of forty one and a half degrees, was first frequented by tho-
inhabitants of this country in the year 1598 (?), and especially by those of the
Greenland Company, but without making any fixed settlements, only as a shelter
in the winter. For which purpose they erected on the North and South Rivers
there, two little forts against the incursions of the Indians. A charter was after-
wards, on the 11th of October, 1614, granted by their High Mightinesses to Gerrit
Jacobsz. Witsen, antient burgomaster of the city of Amsterdam, Jonas Witsz, Sy-
mon Morrisen, Lambert van Tweenhuysen, Wessel Schenck and associates, all In-
habitants of these parts, to trade (1614-1617) exclusively to the newly discovered
countries, situate in America, between New France and Virginia, and now called
New Netherland, to resort thither exclusively for the term of three years, without
any other persons being able, during that time, to frequent that place from this
country, on pain of confiscation of ships and goods, and a fine of fifty thousand
Netherland ducats. — Col. Docs. i. 149.

In the years 1622 and 1623, the West India Company took possession, by virtue
of their charter, of the said country, and conveyed thither, in their ship, the New
Netherland, divers Colonists under the direction of Cornells Jacobsz. Mey, and Adri-
aen Jorissz. Tienpolnt, which Directors, in the year 1624, built Fort Orange on the
North River, and Fort Nassau on the South River, and after that, in 1626, Fort
Amsterdam on the Manhattes. In all which, garrisons were continually maintained,
and trade was carried on in those several districts with yachts, sloops and other
crafts. And in the year 1629, the Freedoms and Exemptions conceded by the Hon-
orable Assembly of the XIX. were published, with their High Mightinesses' appro-
bation. Thereupon divers Patroons and Colonists resorted thither and endeavored
to advance agriculture and population. For further security. Fort Good Hope was
also erected in 1633, on the Fresh River. But said population did not experience
any special impulse until the year 1639, when the fur trade with the Indians, which
had been previously reserved to the Company, was thrown free and open to every
body; at which time not only the inhabitants there residing spread themselves far
and wide, but even new Colonists came thither from Fatherland; and the neighbor-
ing English, both from Virginia and New England repaired to us. So that in place
of seven Bouweries, full thirty were planted, and full one hundred more expected
in a short time from the plantations which were taken up; insomuch that there
was every appearance that provisions might be furnished in two or three years for
ten thousand men. — Col. Doc. N. Y. i. 149. Copied from Wassenaar's Description of
the First Settlement of New Netherland.

Council Minute, that Rev. E. Bogardus refused to receive an admonition in writing
sent him by Dir. Kleft.

23rd March 1645.
The Honorable Director William Kieft has, by approval of the Council, sent an
admonition in writing, dated 23 March to the minister Bogardus, which he would
not receive or open, and the paper is returned by the court messenger. — Col. Does.
N. Y. xiv. 59.

. OF THE State of i^^Ew Yoek. 189

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

Acta of the General Coetus in the West Indies.

1645, June 26th.
The Acta have also arrived from the General Coetus last held
in Brazil. These having been read in the Assembly, the foUomng
things are to be noted :

1. Articles 2, 3, 4, 7. That several persons of various nation-
alities have presented themselves ad examen preparatorium, that
they may be admitted ad propositiones publicas; as Englishmen,

etc., and others. From this, not without reason, disorder

in the church is to be apprehended.

2. Article 14. To send the Acta of their Classis to all
churches (Classes?) and SjTiods; and to request the Acta from
such in return; and also to correspond with all the churches.
This they wish to have communicated to the XIX.

3. Article 20, Of children baptized by Siecken-Troosters.

4. Article 21. Of ministers and Siecken-Troosters; also to
send a French minister, xx. 141.

Report to the Assembly of the XIX.

1645, July 24th.
At the resumption of the preceding Acta, report was ren-
dered by Mourcourtius and Prudentius. In compliance with
the commission laid upon them by the Rev. Classis, they
had appeared before the Assembly of the XIX at the West
India House, (on Rapenburg; building still standing;) and re-
quested for the churches of Brazil seven ministers and a few
Siecken-Troosters. In regard tO' this request the Hon. Directors
desired to see the said request put in writing. This the Brethren
did, and received as a reply, that the Assembly of the XIX have
referred this request, by means of a circular letter, to the next
meeting of the XIX, in Zeela.nd. xx. 141.

1645

190 Ecclesiastical Records

Extract about Indian Affairs for the Synod.

1645, July 24th.

Further, it was resolved to ascertain from the Classis how far
the Deputies should go, in laying Indian affairs before the Synod.
Meantime the Rev. Mourcourtius was directed to make a short
extract (memorandum) thereof, for the consideration of the next
meeting of the Classis.

Extract of the East and West India affairs since the last Synod
at Alkmaar, 1644 xx. 141.

Synod of Nokth Holland, at Haarlem.

1645, Aug. 8 et seq.
Art. 20. East and West India Affairs.

Regarding the 28th Article referring to the East and West
India Affairs : Inasmuch as the Rev. Synods of Gelderland,
Utrecht and Overyssel have not yet accepted the Plan as to this
business; therefore after an exhibition of the difficulties which
arise from disagreement on this matter, it was resolved, in order
to secure some good result, earnestly to request the Rev. Cor^
respondents to make the said Plan acceptable to their principals.
At the same time it was resolved to order the Rev. Deputati of
our Synod to insist earnestly that the objecting Synods accept
this Plan.

The question having been put, whether the Classes where there
are Chambers did not have something to report about the state
of the churches in the East and West Indies, the Rev. Delegates
from the Classis of Amsterdam read this following:

Extracts concerning the state of the churches in the East and
West Indies, as this has been made known to us since the last
Synod held at Alkmaer, 1644.

1. Of the East Indies.
(Four pages, relating to Batavia, Coromandel; and Formosa,
where fifty nine hundred had been baptized, etc.)

OF THE State of ITew Yoke. 191

2. Of the West Indies.

From the churches of the West Indies we have nothing in par-
ticular, except that the instruction of the Brazilians progresses
very well; that they have found a school teacher for the Negros,
of whom they have good hopes of success.

That also some children of the Tapoyers will be brought to
the Aldeen, to be educated, even as the same have requested.

But they complain much of the scarcity of ministers, inasmuch
as Jacobus Cralingius has died there, and many others have re-
cently left for the Fatherland, namely: Bev. Joachim Soler,
Franciscus Planter, Rev. Kettelius. These are on the point of
being followed by still others. Wherefore those few who are still
there, must in the meantime scatter themselves, and repair to the
other places to help supply them, not without injury to their own
churches. They have need of at least seven more ministers in
other places, which they name.

For which reason they also earnestly request that at the earliest
opportunity some good and pious ministers may be sent to them,
as otherwise they would have to take up with the material which
they have there. These are mostly of foreign nations, English,
Spanish, and such others as present themselves. Work has begun
with some of these, to promote them in time to the ministry; but
from them it is to be feared that nothing but great disorder in
the church will come.

The Classis of Amsterdam has made an effort with the Directors
of the West India Company, to get them to send ministers and
Siekentroosters thither. They have also pressed this matter upon
the Assembly of the XIX, lately met at Amsterdam, and earnestly
recommended the request of the churches of Brazil. Thereupon
they received for an answer, that said Assembly had admonished
those Chambers which were behind hand, to send tlieir preachers;
and further had referred this request as one of the points, in the
notice for the next meeting of the XIX to be held in Zeeland.

1645

19S! Ecclesiastical Records

And so also not more than one siekentrooster has been sent to
Guinea, namely, Jacob Cornelissen.

Th§ Rev. Brethren of the Classis of Hoorn reported nothing
more than that Rev. Sixtus u- Besten was sent out as minister to
the East Indies.

The Rev. Brethren of the Classis of Enckhuysen also reported

that there were sent out to the East Indies, Rev. Isaac Schipio

as preacher, and John Pietersen as siekentrooster; and to Guinea,

Albers Elbersen, and Adrian Lourentse Kuysterman, as sieken-

troosters.

Art. 52. Plan of the Synod of England.

It appears from the Acta of the Synod of South Holland, that
the Rev. Synod of England had agreed upon a certain Plan of
Church Government, practically the same in most points as that
of the Reformed Church of this country, and has laid the same
before the Parliament of England, with the request for the ap-
proval thereof.

This was heard by the entire Assembly with great gladness and
with singular satisfaction, with the assurance that between the
English Church and our Church there should be effected a similar
form of government.*

Council Minute. Proclamation to be issued ordering a Day of Thanksgiving to be
observed on account of the Peace •with the Indians.

The 31st of August (1645).

It has been resolved in Council, to Issue a proclamation for a day of general
thanksgiving, which shall take place on the 6th of September next in all the Dutch
and English churches within the limits of New Netherkind. 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 Nether-
land, in order that in all places, where Dutch and English churches are established,
the Almighty God may be especially thanked, lauded and blessed next Wednesday.
the 6th 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. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiil. 19.

* This refers to the great Westminster Assembly and the adoption of Presby-
terianism by the Commonwealth under Cromwell.

OF THE State of i^ew York. 193

Proceedings of the Assembly of the XIX, in Regard to New

Netherland.

1645, Sept. 21.

Extracts from the Kesolutions of tlie Assembly of the XIX. of the
West India Company, holden at Middleburg, from the 9th of
September to the 16th of October, 1645, as far as they relate
to the affairs of New Netherland.

Ttiesday, the 21st September, 1645.

The opinion of the before mentioned deputies being heard, it
is, after divers discourses between the members from Amsterdam
and other Chambers, concluded and resolved; inasmuch as some
Clergymen are about to return home from Brazil, that they be
permitted to return, and that the number of those who shall re-
main there be limited to nine persons, to wit: one for each ninth
part, to be distributed by the President and Supreme Council
among the principal places where the hearers are most numerous,
and their services shall be most advantageous.

And that the smaller places shall be served by precentors, com-
forters of the sick, and schoolmasters, who shall offer up public
prayers, read aloud from the old and new testament, from printed
sermons; and tune the psalms.

But inasmuch as the Amsterdam Chamber maintains, at its
charge, seven of the aforesaid clergymen, besides one in Curacao,
one in New Netherland and one in Loando, making ten in all;
on the other hand, Zealand and the Maese have only one; Zealand
and North Holland is to send one, and Stadt en Landen"'*' hath sent
one by the last ship; it is resolved that the Supreme Government
in Brazil shall be bound herein to make an equal re-partition of
those who are to remain in the service or are sent out, in order that

1645

* In 15&4, Prince Maurice reduced the city of Gronlngen and united the Omme-
landen, or surrounding rural dlatrlcta, to It as one province. Martinet. Beschryvlng
der Nederlanden, 11, 148. The province of Gronlngen was hence sometimes called
"Stadt en Landen "; city and country. — Ed.

194 Ecclesiastical Records

1646

thus the nine parts hereafter to be borne by the members, be

equally charged. — Col. Doc. ]Sr. Y. i. 163-4.

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies. Commission of Classis to the Deputies.

1646, May 28th.

Inasmuch as at the last Classis the Deputies ad res Indicas were
commissioned to consider the desolate state of the churches in
Brazil, and to give information of the same to the Hon. Directors;
it was resolved, that inasmuch as the XIX do not assemble here,
but at The Hague, to refer this matter again to Classis, and to
ask in what manner the Deputies shall act in this business, xx.
152, 153.

Minister to New Netherland.

Whereas the Brethren Deputies, charged with calling a minister
to New Netherland, had, to this end, written to Eev. Aemilius
van der Poel and Eev. Nicholas Ketelius, and requested that they
would either personally appear here, to speak with them orally;
or to make kno^\'n to us their disposition in writing before June
11; and inasmuch as neither they themselves nor any communi-
cations from them have been received; it was resolved, since there
is need of haste in the matter, to write once more to one of them,
and to request a speedy reply. The clerk will do this. xx. 153.

Extracts from the Acta of the Classis of Brazil.

Whereas the Brethren Deputies have shown to our Classis their
extracts from the Acta of the Classis of Brazil, and have asked
advice, as to whether, and how, this same matter shall be laid
before, (lit. remonstrated to; but this has not that force, as in
English), the Messrs XIX; the Classis recommends this to the
discretion of the Deputies. ' They, in order to ward off their
have noted down what affairs ought to be laid before

OF THE State of New Yoke. 195

the XIX, aJid have written to the churches, and having considered
the said extracts, they have

1. Resolved: As to the setting aside of the Conunissariefi
of the church of Brazil, to stir them up (animate them) to oppose
their money

2. As to the licensing of the Jews: About this much com-
plaint has been made in Brazil; that the XIX shall be requested

— inasmuch as Judaism is in direct conflict with Christianity and
therefore can particularly hinder the course of the Gospel there

— that the Hon. Directors would seriously heed such complaints
and not permit them such liberty.

3. As to the boldness of the Papists: the session resolved to me-
morialize the XIX earnestly, and to give them to understand that it
gi-ieves us to hear that liberty has been heretofore granted them, al-
though under some limitation; but misfortunes have arisen there-
from. Therefore their Honors may deduce that the Papacy is not
to be limited; and they are to be requested to deprive them of
such liberty hereafter.

4. As to the correspondence with all the Synods of the Prov-
inces: They are seriously to advise the Messrs. XIX against this.

5. As they complain that no answer has been written them,
in regard to those baptized by Siecken-Troosters — how this should
be regarded: the resolution of Synod shall be forwarded to them.

6. Inasmuch as such sad betrayals have revealed themselves
in the West Indies: That this be laid before the Messrs. XIX,
and they be asked, in accordance with the desire of the church
there, that henceforth no high officials be appointed for the civil
government there, except such as are of the Reformed Religion,
and also church members,

7. As to gentlemen restoring the state there: That all Popery
be turned out.

8. To maintain capable schoolmasters and schooknistressee,
for the very young (young youth) who now run idle in many
places.

1646

196 EOCLBSIASTIOAL EeCORDS

9. In the union of the Classes : to seek help of the XIX.

10. As they complain that for five years no ministers have
been sent them : they shall be told who is to blame therefor.

11. Our request of the Messrs. XIX for six or seven minisr-
ters, to be renewed.

12. To Art. 52 : that we have received their Acta of the year
'44, (1644,) through Rev. Kesterius.

13. As the Classis has granted them the Acta of the year
1640 and subsequent years: These shall be sent to them, pro-
vided the company will bear the expense, which shall be asked of

it— XX. 153, 154.

New Netherland.

1646, June 5th.

The Rev. Deputati ad res Indicas reported, that the Directors
of the West India Company have need of a minister and school-
master in ISTew Netherland; also another minister was needed in
Brazil. And whereas Revs. Cornelius van der Poel and Nicolas
Ketelius have come home from that locality, it was resolved to
make an effort to induce them to go thither (to New Netherland).
For this business the said Rev. Deputati ad res Indicas, were
authorized, iv. 389 ; xxxix. 140.

THE CASE OF DOMINIE BOGARDUS.

Summons to the Rev. E. Bogardus to appear before the Council and answer charges
against him, and f'^rther proceedings. [June 11, 1646.]

In the name of the Lord, Amen. Anno 1646 in New Netherland.
The Hon. Director and Council to the Reverend Everardus Bogardus, minister here.
Although we are informed of your proceedings in the time of the Honorable
Wouter van Twiller, the former Director, and were also warned to be on our guard,
yet were we unwilling to pay any attention thereto, believing that no man that
preached the Word of the Lord would so far forget himself, notwithstanding we
have letters in your own hand, among others, one dated 17th June 1634, wherein
you do not appear to be moved by the spirit of the Lord, but on the contrary by a
feeling becoming heathens, let alone Christians, much less a preacher of the Gospel.
You there berate your magistrate, placed over you by God, as a child of the Devil,
an Incarnate villain, whose buck goats are better than he, and promise him that
you would so pitch into him from the pulpit on the following Sunday, that both you
and his bulwarks would tremble. And many other such like insults, which we re-
frain from mentioning, out of the respect we entertain for that gentleman.

OF THE State of New York. 197

You have Indulged no less In scattering abuse during our admlnlBtratlon. Scarcely
a person in the entire land have you spared; not even your own vclfe, or her sister,
particularly when you were in good company and jolly. Still mixing up your human
passion with the chain of truth, which has continued from time to time, you asso-
ciated with the greatest criminals In the country, taking their part and defending
them. You refused to obey the order to administer the Sacrament of the Lord and
did not dare to partake of it yourself. And in order that you may not plead igno-
rance, a few out of many Instances shall be cited for you, as follows:

On the 25th of September 16.39, having celebrated the Lord's Supper, observing
afterwards in the evening a bright fire In the Director's house, whilst you were at
Jacob van Curler's, being thoroughly drunk, you grossly abused the Director and
Jochlm Pietersen, with whom you were angry, because the Director had asked
something of you for said Jochlm Pietersen which you refused. (See aflBdavit in
our possession.)

Since that time many acts have been committed by you, which no clergyman
would think of doing. In the hope that you would at least demean yourself in your
oflBce in a christianlike manner, we have over looked those things until March 1643,
when one Maryn Adrlaensen came into the Director's room with predetermined pur-
pose to murder him. He was prevented and put in irons. Taking up the criminal's
cause, you drew up his writings and defended him. He, notwithstanding, was sent
to Holland In chains against your will. Whereupon you fulminated terribly for
about fourteen days and desecrated even the puplt by your passion. In what man-
ner you conducted yourself every evening during this time is known to your imme-
diate neighbors. Finally, you made up friends with the Director, and things became
quiet.

In the year 1644, one Laurens Corneiissen being here — a man who committed
perjury; once openly took a false oath and was guilty of theft — he Immediately
found a patron In you, because he bespattered the Director with lies and you were
daily making good cheer with him. In the summer of the same year, when min-
ister Douthey administered the Lord's Supper in the morning, you came drunk into
the pulpit in the afternoon; also on the Friday before Christmas of the same year,
when you preached the sermon calling to repentance.

In the beginning of the year 1645, being at supper at the Fiscal's where you ar-
rived drunk, you commenced as is your custom, to scold your deacons and the Secre-
tary, abusing among the rest deacon Oloff Stevensen as a thief, although he did
not utter an ill word against you; whereupon the Director, being present, suggested
to you in a kind manner, that it was not the place to use such language. As you
did not desist, the Director finally said, that when you were drunk, you did nothlhg
but abuse, and that you had been drunk on Friday when you went into the pulpit;
that it did not become a minister to lead such a life, and to give scandal to the
worthy congregation.

Some days after, the Director not being able to attend church in consequence of
indisposition, to wit on the 22ud January 1645, you abused him violently from the
pulpit, saying " What else are the greatest In the land but vessels of wrath and
fountains of evil, etc. Men aim at nothing but to rob one another of his property,
to dismiss, banish and transport ". For this reason the Director absented himself
from church, in order to avoid greater scandal; as he will maintain that he never
coveted any man's property, or took it away, or acted unjustly, or banished any
one who had not deserved three times severer punishment. Whomever he dis-
missed was discharged because such was his prerogative, and he will vindicate hl9
act In the proper quarter. It is none of your business.

1646

198 Ecclesiastical Records

On the 21st March 1645, being at a wedding feast at Adam Brouwer's and pretty
drunk, you commenced scolding the Fiscal and Secretary then present, censuring
also the Director not a little, giving as your reason that he had called your wife a

, though he said there that it was not true and that he never entertained such

a thought, and It never could be proved. Wherefore on the 23rd March, we being
moved by motives of mercy, and on account of the respect attached to your office
Instead of prosecuting you, sent you a Christian admonition under seal, which you
twice refused to receive. (See Report of the Messenger.)

You administered the Lord's Supper at Easter and Whitsuntide without partak-
ing of it yourself, setting yourself as a partisan; assuming that the Director had
sent the Yoncker* and one lottho, meaning Lysbet the midwife, to you in order to
seek a reconciliation, but that you would think twice before making peace with him;
using similar language also to the Yoncker and Anthony de Hooges, as shall appear
by credible witnesses. At the making of the peace, many words and means were
used to break it off. Good effect was expected from the order which was sent to
you to offer up prayers to the Lord, but instead of a prayer, people heard an in-
vective, the tendency whereof was of dangerous consequences. Peace being con-
cluded with the Indians, an extract from the order of the Lords States was sent
to your Reverence, to return thanks to God on the 6th of September therefor. Your
Reverence preached well and gave a good sermon, but throughout not a word was
uttered about the peace, and though the day was appointed specially for that pur-
pose, you offered no thanks to God for it, as the other clergymen who dwell within
our limits have done with great zeal. By this, people can estimate your disposition
towards the Company, by whom you are paid, and the welfare of the country;
which disposition is also manifested by favoring those who have grossly defrauded
and injured the Company; the conventicles and gatherings held and still daily con-
tinued in reference thereto.

On the 22nd of December, you said publicly, in the course of the sermon on re-
pentance, that you have frequently administered the Lord's Supper, without par-
taking of it yourself, and wished that those who are the cause of the trouble were
dismissed, and when families are visited, they cannot give a reason, why they ab-
sent themselves. Your bad tongue is in our opinion, the sole cause, and your stiff-
neckedness, and those who encourage you in your evil course, the cause of its con-
tinuance. We know no one but only you who has refused to make peace. When
you make a visitation you do not enquire the reason of such absence if it be
demanded.

On the 24th of the same month, you remarked in your sermon, that in Africa, in
consequence of the excessive heat, different wild animals copulate together, whereby
many monsters are generated. But in this temperate climate, you knew not, you
said, whence these monsters of men proceeded. They are the mighty but they
ought to be made unmighty, who have many fathers and place their trust in the
arm of the flesh, and not in the Lord.

Children can tell to whom you here alluded. These and many similar sermons
which you have often preached, have obliged us to remain away from church.

Seeing that all this tends to the general ruin of the land, both in ecclesiastical
and civil matters, to the disparagement of authority which your Reverence is bound
by duty and also by your oath to support; to the stirring up of mutiny among the
people, already split into factions; to schism and contention in the church, created
by novel and unheard of customs, and to rendering us contemptible in the eyes of
our neighbors, which things cannot be tolerated, when justice is accustomed to be
maintained, therefore our bounden duty obliges us to provide therein, and by virtue

• Adrian van der Donck.

OF THE State of New York. 199

of our commission from their High Mightinesses, His Highness, and the Lords
Directors of the Incorporated West India Company, to proceed against you for-
mally; and in order that the same may be done more regularly, we have commanded
th.Tt a copy of this our Acte be delivered to you, to be answered in fourteen days,
protesting that your Reverence shall be treated in as Christian and civil a manner
as our conscience and the welfare of Church and State will permit. The 2nd of
January 1646.

1646, 4th of January.

We have seen the writing dated third January last sent us by Bverardus Bogardus
through the messenger, and found it futile and absurd and not an answer to the
extract dated 2nd of January 1646, sent to said Bogardus. It is therefore ordered
that said Bogardus shall give a pertinent answer to the contents of said extract,
either affirmatively or negatively within the time therein mentioned, on pain of
being prosecuted in court as a rebel and contumacious.

Thus done in Council at Fort Amsterdam in New Netherland on the above date.

On the l&L*i of January.

We have seen a certain writing of Domine Bogardus sent us by the messenger,
full of vain subterfuge, calumny, insult and profanation of God's holy word, to the
disparagement of justice and his lawful superior, which he uses, as is his custom,
to vent his passion and to cover up the truth, and is in no wise an answer to our
charges and order sent him on the 2nd and 4th of January last. Therefore we order
him a second time to answer it formally within fourteen days either negatively or
afBrmatively on pain as above.

On the first of February Anno 1646.

Having seen the slanderous writing of Domine Bogardus purporting to be an an-
swer to our charges, wherein he afiirms some and denies other points thereof, and
demands proof.

Ordered that the Fiscal shall give said Bogardus satisfaction as his party.

On the 8th of March, 1646.

Having seen the answer of Everardus Bogardus, minister, dated 8th of March,
Ordered, if he has anything more to allege either against the witnesses or other-
wise in the remainder of the suit, that he produce it within eight days, and at the
same time specify the reason which the Honorable Director and Council gave him
for abusing tliem from the chair of truth, and refusing to obey their order; In de-
fault whereof the buit shall be proceeded with to proof, notwithstanding his subter-
fuges. The 8th of March 1646.

Whereas Domine Bogardus has not yet answered the papers sent to him on the
8th of February, he is hereby ordered to answer them by the next court day, and
show cause why he has calumniated the Magistrate from the Chair of Truth, and
in his writing.

Having seen the wriiing u;;tod the 15th of March 1640 sent b.v the messenger
from Everardus Bogardus, minister, it is for the second time ordered that Deft,
shall declare at the next session whether he has any more objections against the
evidence and other points of the suit, and any other cause why he has calumniated
the Director and Council in the Chair of Truth, and neglected their order. In
default, the suit shall be despatched.

Everardus Bogardus, minister, has delivered in Court an answer to the resolution
of the 15th of March and previous dates, wherein he declares that he will not at
present proceed further or deeper in the case, or with the evidence or remainder
of the suit; and whereas he, Bogardus, has challenged the Director and Council as
judges, although we, by virtue of the commission granted us by their High Mighti-
nesses, his Highness, and the Honorable Lords Directors, are fully qualil3od to de-

1646

200 Ecclesiastical Records

cide the case, as It concerns our oflBce and the authority of our superiors vested in
us, Yet in order to obviate all occasion of scandal, we are willing to place our claim
In the hands of impartial judges of the reformed religion, such as Domine Johannes
Megapolensis, Mr. Douthey, both ministers, and two or three impartial members of
this Province, provided Bogardus shall submit his case, as we do, to their judg-
ment, and that he, in the meanwhile, shall not privately or publicly, directly or
Indirectly, by abuse or calumny offend the Director and Council; and if, meanwhile,
another Director and other Councillors arrive here, we are content to place the
matter in their hands. On which he is ordered to communicate his resolution on
the 12th of April next.
Dated 22nd of March 1646 in Council in New Amsterdam.

12 April Anno 1646.

Having seen the answer of Everardue Bogardus, minister, dated the 12th of

April, delivered In writing, whereby he refuses the civil offer made him on the 22nd

of March last by the Director and Council, to submit the suit against him to two

Reformed ministers and some impartial members of this country, but appeals to

the coming of a new Director and Council; and whereas it Is uncertain what time a

new Director will arrive; we cannot consequently neglect putting a stop to the

disorder and scandals which have prevailed hitherto, but are resolved to proceed

with the suit; we therefore order that an answer to his last writing delivered to

us shall be sent to him, Domine Bogardus, within eight days, to be by him replied

to for the last time on the 2eth of this month, in default whereof the case shall be

decided.

nth of June.

Whereas Oloff Stevensen, deacon and commissary of cargoes and the store, has
presented a petition to us wherein he requests that four arbitrators may be named
by us who might decide the difficulty which he has with Domine Everardus Bogar-
dus, minister here, to which said Bogardus also consents, (see his writing delivered
to us by him, Oloff): Therefore we do not object so to do, and hereby nominate
Domine Megapolensis, Mr. de Hooges, Yoncker Adrlaen Verdonck and Laurens van
Heusden, commissary, whom we amicably request, authorize and empower to de-
cide and settle the aforesaid question as far as in their power lies, reserving the
action which the Fiscal may have against Oloff Stevensen.

Thus done in Fort Amsterdam the 11th of June Anno 1646.

The Honorable Director and Council to you. Reverend Bogardus, minister here.

Although the offer we have made your Reverence to submit our case to arbitra-
tion, as you have requested, sufficiently proves the justice of our proceedings and
the inclination we have for peace, as your refusal establishes the contrary; never-
theless the respect we bear the dignity of the ministry, and the desire for your
Reverence's welfare prompt [us] once more to seek it, seeing the opportunity that
now presents itself on the part of those whom we had nominated thereto; From the
ministers, Domine Johannes Megapolensis and Mr. Douthey, and such other Impar-
tial members as you yourself will be willing to select; protesting in case of refusal
that we shall proceed to judgment. And in order that we may with more fervour
pray God in the midst of the congregation that He would dispose you and our hearts
to a Christian concord, we request Domine Megapolensis may preach next Sunday,
as has been always his custom, and being here make us partakers of the gifts with
which God has blessed him. Your Reverence will please to gratify us so far in
this matter as that we may hear him on that occasion. Relying thereon, and not
doubting that your Reverence will have any objection to it seeing the justice of our
request, we shall await your Reverence's immediate answer thereto, and on the
preceding matter next Thursday, being the 14th of June. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv.
69, 70, 71, 72, 73.

OF THE State of New York. 201

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

1646, June 12th.
Rev. Henry Rntelius in the Chair.

The committee charged with calling a pastor for ]^ew I^ether-
land, had written, for this purpose, to Rev. Cornelius Vander
Poel, and Rev. Nicholas Ketelius. They requested their Rever-
ences either to appear here in person to confer with us by word
of mouth, or to make known their inclination in writing by June
11th. But they did not arrive nor did any letter. It was there-
fore resolved, since the matter is of a pressing nature, again to
write to them, and to request a speedy reply. This the Clerk
will do. XX. 163.

Remonstrance [Memorial] to the XIX.

Rev. Bantius was directed to draft these matters into a Remon-
strance to be sent to the Hon. Messrs. XIX ; also to draft a let-
ter to be sent to the churches in Brazil, xx. 154.

John Walraven.

1646, June 25th.

John Walraven who was to be recommended as schoolmaster
and voorleser to New Netherland appeared: The brethren, who
presented him, related the experience which befell them before
the Directors, namely; that the Directors, besides taking little
pleasure in his writing, denied (lit. ignored) that they had given
a commission to call a schoolmaster who should at the same time
be a voorleser. Thereupon we reminded them, that Isaac van
Beeck had recommended us thus to do. They then gave the
affair again in commission to certain gentlemen of their Assembly.
These informed us, in reply, that they were not accustomed to pay
n schoolmaster; but if he wished to journey thither as Siecken-
Trooster and voorleser and precentor in the church, that they
would accept him as such. They would then consent also to

1646

202 Ecclesiastical Records

maintain a school, and would give for this thirty six florins per
month; and that he would have to get along on this. This being
put before him, he declared that he was satisfied therewith, and
woidd go thither in such capacity. Thereupon the Assembly
resolved to examine him. In this examination, he bore himself
in such fashion that the Assembly judged him to be fit to be em-
ployed in said capacity, in the said locality. The Rev. Presi-
dent and Clerk were thereupon commissioned to recommend him
to the Messrs. Directors accordingly, xx. 154, 155.

1646, June 25th.
Rev. John Bantius in the Chair.

The brethren. Revs. Cornelius Vander Poel and Nicholas Ke-
telius appeared, in response to the letters addressed to them asking
them whether they felt inclined to go as preachers to ISTew aSTether-
land. Rev. Mr. Ketelius declared that he had a call to Moort in
the Classis of the Gouw, and thanked the brethren for their kind
interest. Rev, Mr. Vander Poel also declared that a call was
opened to him, which he would lay before the Classis of Gor-
chon on Monday, 25th inst. He did not know for a certainty,
whether it would be approved; but if there were any difficulty
in the matter, he would accept a call to ISTew Netherland. He
also requested the brethren to wait for him until he had been
before the Classis, and received this decision. As he has only
partially engaged himself in this call, he would let us know the
result by Tuesday or Wednesday, either by word of mouth, or
by letter. His request was granted. The meeting also resolved,
that should he appear in order to accept this call, the clerk, and
the Rev. Mr. Rutelius shall request their Excellencies, the Di-
rectors, to call him ; but in case he fail to appear. Rev. Mr. Cantius
shall have an interview with John Hormansen van Til, at Wesop,
who had previously requested to be examined and admitted to
licensure by our Classis, and to ascertain if he were willing to go
to New Netherland as pastor. Upon this we will take action
hereafter, xx. 155.

OF THE State of Xew York. 203

1646

ISTew ISTetherland.

(1646, July 9.)

The Rev. Depiitati ad res Indieas reported that the two breth-
ren, Keteliiis and van der Poel have been called to churches here
in this country, and that they cannot be made available for the
church in Brazil or ISTew Netherland. xxxix. 141.

Remonstrances to the XIX.

1646, July 9th.

A remonstrance [or Memorial] had been written on account
of the distresses in the Church in the West Indies. It had been
handed in to the Directors of the Assembly of the XIX, when
convened in Zeeland. There had also been a communication sent
to the church of Zeeland. iv. 391.

Remonstrance to the XIX, (or to the Executive Committee of
the West India Company; by the Classis of Amsterdam.)

1646, July 9.

Honorable, Wise, Prudent and Very (Estimable) Gentlemen : —

Inasmuch as the Classis of Amsterdam has hitherto adjudged
what is proper for the propagation of the Gospel and the salvation
of men, not only in her own home districts, but also among the
blind heathen, in lands under the jurisdiction of your Company,
seeking to build them up in sound doctrine and in truth: and
ever desirous to show also all due respect to your Honors : So that
same Classis in more recent times, is still seeking these same ends
in conjunction with your Company. Therefore, for the glory of
God, and with the most cordial good wishes for the prosperity of
your Company, she cannot neglect to make known to your Assem-
bly (of the XIX) those things which (being detrimental?) she
would rather have done by word of mouth. Nevertheless, because
of distance, she finds herself compelled to do the same in writing,
through her Deputies. The business consists principally of the
following items:

1646

204 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

I. First of all, we do not doubt but that it is well known to you,
how vigorously the churches in Brazil, both in their Acts and in
their letters, as well as the Classis of Amsterdam through her
Deputies, have hitherto complained of the licenses (for trade)
granted by you to the Jews, who are the sworn enemies of our
Lord Jesus Christ. "We perceive from the last Acts of (the Classis
of) Brazil, in Article nineteen, if we understand it correctly, that
no improvement, in regard to said licenses, has taken place; but
in addition thereto — and which fact grieves us not a little — it
has never hitherto been thought improper by the Hon. Company,
to grant to the Jews such liberty. And we conclude therefrom,
even as we also can gather from a certain concert (plan) concocted
by the Committee of the XIX, Art. 1041, that the Jews have also
been allowed the free exercise of their religion in Brazil, although
under some limitations. We submit to your consideration how
injurious such liberty granted to them, is to the Christian Re-
ligion. For what else can the heathen, and the newly converted
Christians in those regions conclude therefrom, than that our
continued zeal for the doctrine and the glory of our Savior (is
not sincere ?) ; besides, that Christianity and Judaism are not so
incompatible and antagonistic to each other as would appear from
the reading of the New Testament. Do we unite ourselves for
gome temporary gain, with such a sect, which so completely scorns
and slanders the Christian Religion ? and do we grant them free-
dom ? What ! shall we keep silent on such a matter ? Can your
Hon. Company expect it ? Does it not appear from the teaching
of our Redeemer, Matt. 6:33, where He commands us to seek
first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and then promises
us that all other things shall be added unto us — (that such union
is wrong?)

So also no pains have hitherto been spared either by ourselves
or by the churches of Brazil, to show your Estimables what mani-
fold acts of insolence spring up from your licensing Papists (to
trade in Brazil ?) ; and what great misfortunes may be expected

OF THE State of !N^e"w Yokk. 205

therefrom. We learn not only that such licenses still exist, but we
understand also, with pain of heart, from Art. 20, that the Hon.
XIX have resolved that Papists shall continue to enjoy the exer-
cise of their religion, as guaranteed to them by the compact. We
consider that the connivance (by the authorities here) at the as-
sembling of Papists here in Holland, to be the reason of their
perseverance in their blindness. Therefore, we are of opinion,
Hon. Gentlemen, and all pious ministers who have returned from
Brazil agree with us therein, that by these grants of freedom to
the Papists there, the door of their conversion has been closed.
He who builds up with one hand and breaks down with the other,
makes all his labor and expense come to naught. Let no one
hold such opinion at his peril. Let it be your aim to stand for the
exercise of no other religion (than the Reformed). All experience
teaches the danger of allowing liberty to Papists. What concord
hath Christ with Belial ? There can be as little agreement between
them as between light and darkness; and we hold it as certain
that unless your Assembly, (of the XIX), first and last, strive
earnestly for the true God and against all the idolatries of the
Papacy, God will arouse himself for the vindication of his own
glory, and do battle for the same, and not to our profit.

That your Estimables should imagine that you can keep their
insolence within due bounds by placing some limitations on them
(is a great mistake). Experience has already and for a long
time, taught us, that the Papacy cares not for limitations, and
keeps compacts made with it only so far as it suits them to main-
tain them ; and all this is done under the pretext that faith need not
be kept with heretics.

If now your Estimables will please to take some notice of their
own plans (concepts) for the year 1641, and what was considered
satisfactory to them then ; they will discover from the Acts of
the churches of Brazil, and especially from Art. 105 of the year
1644, and from the Acts of some preceding years, what is the
basis of these Articles, and that the most important ones of them

1646

206 Ecclesiastical Records

have for a long time been disregarded by the Papists. And inas-
much as, only recently, it was made as clear as day, how little
one can depend on compacts made with Papists : — We trust that
your Estimables, taking notice of their faithlessness, treacheiry,
perjury, riot and the murders committed by them, will deny them
in the future, all liberty, even in new territories which you con-
quer. Also that you will take heed with more Christian zeal to
the twelve grievances of the churches of Brazil, which are to be
found in Article 42. And besides all this, in the execution of
these things, take into proper consideration what is requested of
the same (churches in Brazil,) which are to be found in Article 37.
Por we judge that by these two suggestions, misfortunes experi-
enced can be remedied, and future evils averted.

II. In the second place, your Estimables are not unaware how
earnestly the churches of Brazil complain of the great scarcity
of ministers among them. Prom this circumstance they are still
suffering, having obtained no redress to their complaints. The
Gentlemen of the churches of Amsterdam have indicated to us,
from time to time, that they were not at fault, but had at their
charges a greater number of ministers than they needed to take,
according to a certain equalization made among the (five) Cham-
bers (of the West India Company). Furthermore the lack is
becoming more severely felt. Furthermore, they show in Article
49, that besides the English minister, and two ministers among
the Brazilians there, jSTetherland ministers should re-
main there ; yet of these, two were thinking of departing with the
fleet, as appears from Art. 58.

Your Estimables can and fairness, appreciate this

complaint, to wit: That it is not possible for so few ministers to
take care of so many places. Therefore we request with them,
and in their behalf, that they may be provided as speedily as
possible with a sufficient number of ministers, according to their
request in Art. 61 ; and especially, that they may not be compelled,
from the very necessity of the case, to make proponents and min-

OP THE State of New Yoke. 20T

isters for themselves. For this appears to have been done, ac-
cording to Articles 1, 4, 44. For your Estimables can easily under-
stand, that they are obliged there to take what they can. get, and
not what they wish.

We would also urge your Estimables to consider whether Guinea,
where Meyndert Hendrickse occupies the pastorate, and has made
a good beginning of a (congregation?) ought (not?) to be pro-
vided once more with a good minister ? Besides there is the addi-
tional request in Art. 45, in reference to schoolmasters and school-
mistresses, for the instruction of youth in the principal localities.

III. Thirdly, we cannot keep silence in regard to the govern-
ment of the churches in Brazil. Those churches formerly requested
from the Hon. XIX, and secured the right to divide the Classis
into two Classes, with the ultimate design of forming a Synod
with these two Classes. We cheerfully confess, Honorable Gen-
tlemen, that we were not able to guess what object they had in
view with such a plan ; much less could we see what apprehension
(benefit?) they could hope therefrom. But we could easily see
that instead, only discord and alienations would arise therefrom.
And now they themselves begin to fear these same things. They
are therefore themselves making request to restore their Assembly
back into a single Classis, which is to be the highest ecclesiastical
Assembly in Brazil. See Arts. Y, 8, 49. We trust that your Esti-
mables will not deny them so small a matter as this. It will pro-
duce no injustice, but promote better order, closer union among
the ministers there, and fewer difficulties for your Hon. Com-
pany.

Of a like nature is their request, to be allowed to correspond
with all the different Provincial Synods in this country (Hol-
land;) offering to send their (Ecclesiastical) Acts to all these
Synods, upon condition of receiving copies of theirs in return.
This action was taken in 1644, Art. 14. But such a course is
not necessary, and would certainly be productive of harm. We

208 Ecclesiastical Records

have, therefore, for important reasons, strongly advised against
such permission, as appears from Art. 24.

But inasmuch as, according to Art. 52, it appears that they
are determined to keep this matter open, (lit. to leave it in statu)
until the decision of the Hon. XIX, shall reach them: There-
fore it is our loving request, that your Estimables will he pleased
to allow the former custom to continue, namely ; that the churches
of your conquered territories, shall correspond only with those
Classes, within whose boundaries the Chambers of the Companies
are located ; for with such they are in closest communication, both
as to order, and church government. For out of such a widely
extended correspondence, nothing else could result than estrange-
ment in different matters, and very tardy help for the churches.
For gifts which are provided by many, would be slower than those
which are provided by a few.

And whereas it is sufficiently plain from their Ecclesiastical
Acts, that they are now mostly inclined to correspondence with
a single Synod (to correspondence on a single footing) ; and in-
asmuch as, in Art. 63, they make request only for the Acts of the
Synod of JSTorth Holland from 1640 to the present time (1046) ;
and, inasmuch as, before 1640, the Acts of that Synod (of North
Holland) were sent them, through the favor of your Estimables:
So we request that the same may thus be continued to be sent, and
which will furnish them all good aid in reference to matters of
church government.

IsTow all these things. Estimable, Wise and Prudent Gentlemen,
which are also especially important, we feel that we must make
known to your Estimables, in accordance with our commission.
We lay them before your Estimables by these presents. This is
done from a just zeal for the glory of God, and a sincere desire
for the prosperity of your Hon. Company. We trust that your
Estimables will regard them in no other light, and will receive
them in the fear of the Lord; and that you will render your de-
cision thereon, unto the glory of God's Holy l^ame and the best

or THE State of jSTew York. 209

interests of his Cliurch. We respectfully request that your Esti-
mables will let the churches of Brazil know of your reply, long
desired by them.

Trusting to such a result, (lit., leaving ourselves to this), we,
in the meantime, wish your Estimables the spirit of wisdom and
prudence and courage in your burdensome and anxious affairs.
We pray God to frustrate all evil machinations against your Hon.
Company, and follow up your good decision with his pure and
rich blessings; and that you may be a Wise Counselor for great
success and prosperity, to the glory of his great ISTame, through
Jesus Christ, iv. 391 ; xxxix. 141-143.

Commission of Petek Stuyvesant as Director General of
ISTew ISTethbrland.

1646, July 28.

From the Commissie-book of the States General in the Royal Ar-
chives at the Hague. Commission for Petrus Stuyvesant as
Director on the Coast of ISTew JSTetherland, as well as the Island
of Curacoa, and the places thereupon depending.

The States General of the United Netherlands to all those to
whom these Presents shall come, or who shall hear them read,
Health. BE IT KNOWN: Whereas We have deemed it ad-
visable for the advancement of the affairs of the General Incor-
porated West India Company, not only to maintain the trade and
population on the coast of New Netherland and the places situate
thereabout; also, the Islands Curacoa, Beimaire, Aruba and their
dependencies, which have hitherto been encouraged thither from
this country; but also to make new treaties and alliances with
foreign princes and to inflict as much injury as possible on the
enemy in his forts and strongholds, as well by sea as by land ;
for which purposes it becomes necessary to appoint a person Di-
rector; We, therefore, confiding in the probity and experience of
Petrus Stuyvesant, formerly entrusted with Our affairs in, and
the government of, the aforesaid Island of Curacoa and the places
14

1646

210 Ecclesiastical Records

thereon depending, We, being well pleased with his services there,
have commissioned and appointed, and by these presents do com-
mission and appoint the said Petrus Stuyvesant, Director in the
aforesaid countries of New !N^etherland, and the places thereunto
adjoining, together with the aforementioned Islands of Curacoa,
Beunaire, Aruba, and their dependencies; to administer, with
the Council as well now as hereafter appointed with him, the
said office of Director, both on water and on land, and in said
quality, to attend carefully to the advancement, promotion and
preservation of friendship, alliances, trade and commerce ; to di-
rect all matters appertaining to traffic and war, and to maintain,
in all things there, good order for the service of the United ITeth-
erlands and the General West India Company; to establish regu-
larity for the safeguard of the places and forts therein ; to admin-
ister law and justice as well civil as criminal; and, moreover, to
perfonn all that concerns his office and duties in accordance with
the Charter, and the general and particular instructions herewith
given, and to be hereafter given him, as a good and faithful
Director is bound and obliged, by his oath in Our hands to do;
Which done. We, therefore, order and command all other officers,
common soldiers, together with the inhabitants and natives resid-
ing in the aforesaid places as subjects, and all whom it may con-
cern, to acknowledge, respect and obey the said Petrus Stuyvesant
as Our Director in the countries and places of New Netherland,
and in the Islands of Curacao, Beunaire, Aruba, and their de-
pendencies, and to afford all help, countenance and assistance in
the performance of these things, as We have found the same to be
for the advantage of the Company. Done in Our Assembly at
the Hague, on the xxviii. July, 1646. — Col. Docs. i. 178.

Acts of the Classis of Amsteedam.

Extract.

1646. There were read by Rev. Mourcourtius the extracts re-
garding the affairs of the East and West Indian Churches, which

OF THE State of New York. 211

will be exhibited at the next meeting of Synod, iv. 394; xxxix.
143.

Acts of the Deputies.

Rev. Simon Welmerdonckius in the Chair.

1646, July 28th.

Whereas the two ministers, Revs. Ketelius and Van der Poel,
have declined accepting the proposed calls to I^ew IsTetherland,
both having received calls in this country, and have returned
their thanks to our Assembly; and as it has been understood from
their Excellencies, the Directors, that they will inquire of Rev.
Mr. Bogardus, who is still over there, whether he is not vailing
to remain: therefore the Assembly postpones this subject for the
present, xx. 157.

Synod of ISTgrth Holland, at Amsterdam.
Art. 22. Plan as to East and West India Affairs.

1646, Aug. 7 et seq.

Regarding Art. 20 (1645), touching the Plan as to the East
and West India Affairs: It is understood that the Rev. Synod
of Gelderland does not as yet accept that Plan; the Synod of
Utrecht accepts it, with the reservation that they may retain the
privilege of themselves directly presenting and recommending
ministers and siekentroosters to the Messrs. Directors. Those
of the Synod of Friesland, who heretofore were in harmony with
us, or at least acquiesced, now put forward the same obstacle as
those of the Synod of Utrecht. The Rev. Synod of Overyssel
persists in its former complaint, with especial protest against
all misfortunes which might arise on this account. Those of
the Synods of Groningen and Ommelanden, agreed before to the
Plan, and hold to it yet. Whereupon it was resolved to take up
this whole subject ad notam, and to inform the several Classes of
our Synod thereof, in order to see what further action must be
had in this matter; meantime the Rev. Deputati of our S}Tiod shall

1646

212 Ecclesiastical Records

also commimicate tlie same to the Eev. Deputati of South Hol-
land; and the Rev, Brethren ad correspondentias shall be charged
on this point to insist with all earnestness before the Synods ob-
jecting, and seek to induce them vnih good arguments, so that
by all means the proposed Plan may be accepted by all.

Article 23.

Arrived there (Brazil) Rev. Henricus Hermannius, minister
of Greuningen. Siekentroosters sent: Abraham Henrixse Duy-
senpoort, to Brazil; John Walraven, as siekentrooster and school
master to New Netherland.

Those of Hoom had nothing to report at present.

Those of Enkhuysen had only this; that by their Rev. Classis
had been sent during the current year, as Krankenbesoeker, to
Brazil, Eranciscus Henrixsen Huppelen.

ISTew ISTetherlaxd, Coverhstg the Years 1641-1646.

[This covers six years in the latter part of the ministry of Rev. Everardua
Bogardus, 1633-1647. — From the Journal of New Netherland.]

There is first given a description of the country, as to its location, geographical
features, climate, animals, and native inhabitants. Concerning the natives, the
following is said:

" The Indians are of ordinary stature, strong and broad shouldered; olive color,
light and nimble of foot, subtle in disposition, of few words, which they previously
well consider; hypocritical, treacherous, vindictive, brave and pertinacious in self
defense; in time of need, resolute to die. They seem to despise all the torments
that can be Inflicted on them, and do not utter a single moan; they go almost
naked, except a flap which hangs before their nakedness; and on their shoulders
a deer skin, or a mantle, a fathom square, of woven turkey feathers, or of peltrlea
sewed together; they make use now generally of blue or red (duffels), in conse-
quence of the frequent visits of the Christians. In winter they make shoes of
deer skin, manufactured after their fashion. Except their chiefs, they have gen-
erally but one wife whom they frequently change according to caprice; she must
do all the work, plant corn and cut wood, and attend to whatever else is to be
done. The Indians are divided Into various nations. They differ even in language,
which would be altogether too long to be related in this brief space. They dwell
together, mostly from friendship, in tribes commanded by a chief, who Is the
General, and usually called Sackema; he does not possess much authority and
but little distinction, unless in their dances and other ceremonies. They have
hardly any knowledge of God; no Divine Worship, no law, no justice; the strongest
does what he pleases, and the young men are masters. Their weapons are the
bow and arrow, in the use of which they are wonderful adepts. Hunting and
flshiug, in addition to the maize which the women plant, furnish them food."

Then follows a General Review of the Dutch Colony from 1623-1641; by whom,.
and how, it was peopled.

OF THE State of Xew Yoek. 213

" The subjects of the Lords States General, had frequented this country a long
time ago, solely for the purpose of the fur trade. Since the year 1623, the In-
corporated West India Company caused four forts to be erected, two on the River
Mauritius, and one on each side of the others; the largest, which their Honors
named New Amsterdam, stands on the point formed by the Mauritius and the
other river already mentioned; six and thirty (Dutch) miles higher up, is another
fort called Orange; that on the South river is named Nassau w; and that on the
Fresh r'ver, the Good Hope; in which the Company hath since continually main-
tained garrisons. In the beginning, their Honors sent thither a certain number
of settlers, and caused to be erected at great expense, three saw mills, which never
realized any profit of consequence, on account of their great charge; a great deal
<of money was also expended for the advancement of the country, but it never
began to be settled until every one was permitted to trade with the Indians, inas-
much as, up to that time, no one calculated to remain there longer than the ex-
piration of his bounden time, and therefore did not apply himself to agriculture;
yea, even the Colonic of Renselaerswyck was of little consequence. But as soon
as the ti'ade was opened, many servants who had prospered under the Company
applied for their discharge, built houses and formed plantations, spread themselves
far and wide, each seeking the best land, and to be nearest to the Indians, in order
thus to trade with them advantageously; others bought sloops with which to sell
goods at the north and at the south, and as the Directors gave free passage from
Holland thither, that also caused many to come. On the other hand, the English
came both from Virginia and New England, on account of the good opportunity
to plant tobacco here; first, divers servants, whose time had expired; afterwards,
families, and finally, entire colonies, having been forced to quit that place. In
order to enjoy freedom of conscience, and to escape from the insupportable gov-
ernment of New England; and because many more commodities were to be ob-
tained here and there; so that in place of seven bouweries and two and three
plantations which were here, thirty bouweries were to be seen as well cultivated
and stocked as in Europe, (and) one hundred plantations which, In two or three
(years) would become regular bouweries; for after the tobacco was out of the
ground, corn was planted there without ploughing, and the winter was employed
preparing new lands. The English colonies had settled under us by patent on
equal terms with the others. Each of these was In appearance not less than one
hundred families strong, exclusive of the Colonic of Reusseiaerswyck, which is
prospering, with that of Myndert Meyndcrtsz and Cornells Melyn, who began first.
Also the village of New Amsterdam around the fort, one hundred families, so fhat
there was appearance of producing supplies in a year for fourteen thousand souls,
without straightening the country, and had there not been a want of laborers or
farm servants, twice as much could be raised, considering that fifty lasts of rye
and fifty lasts of peas were still remaining around the fort, after a large quantity
had been burnt and destroyed by the Indians, who in a short time quickly brought
this country to nought and had well nigh destroyed this bright hope, in the manner
following."

Then comes an account of the Causes and Consequences of the New Netherland
War; pages, 181-8. (For this, see also O'Callaghan and Brodhead.) A series of
papers followed this, marked from A to R, relating to the condition of New
Netherland, 1643-1G47. Among these occur several series of questions, under M.,
addressed to different officials, about the origin of the War. The following were
addressed to Domlne Bogardus:

Interrogatories for the Reverend Everardus Bogardue, Minister of the flock of
Jesus Christ here on the Manhatans. p. 200.

Article 1.

Was not your Reverence in the room with the late Director General Kleft when
the three men, namely, Maryn Adriaensen, Jan Claessen Daom, and Abram

1646

214 Ecclesiastical Records

Planck, presented their petition respecting the demand for the war against the
Natives?

Article 2.
Is the conversation between Mr. Kieft and the three men on that occasion still
fresh In your Reverence's memory?

Article 3.
Can he, the witness, conscientiously and solemnly declare before God, verbally
or In writing, all that then transpired in the room, between these five persons,
respecting the War? — Doc. Hist. N. Y. iv. 4-11; Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 179-188.

Order Directing the Rev. Everardus Bogardus to deliver to the Council a Bill of
Exchange, given by the Swedish Governor at the South River for goods sold
there by one Sandelyn contrary to Law. Sept. 21, 1646.

Whereas the Honorable Director General and Council of New Netherland have
received certain Information, that Jacob Evertsen Sandelyn, master of the Ship
" Scotch Dutchman " has, without order and commission from the Incorporated
West India Company, Department of Amsterdam, come into the South River of
New Netherland with the aforesaid ship and there sold a parcel of duffel cloth
and other goods to the Swedish Governor, for which he has received from said
Governor a bill of exchange amounting to the sum of twenty five hundred guilders,
which bill of exchange and letter of advice have been handed by Laurens Laurensen
from Vleckeren to Everardus Bogardus, minister here, to be transmitted to Holland
and whereas this tends to the great prejudice of the Company and the serious
injury of this country. We therefore hereby order said Bogardus to deliver up
immediately into our hands the abovementioned bill handed him by Laurens
Laurensen or to declare into whose hands he has delivered it. In default thereof
said Bogardus shall be held responsible for all damages and losses, which the
Honorable Company shall suffer hereby and be considered an accessory of those,
who endeavour to defraud the Honorable Company of its revenue and seek to ruin
the country.

Thus done in Council in Fort Amsterdam In New Netherland, the 21st of Sep-
tember Anno 1646.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xil. 26, 27.

FATHER JOGUES.— HIS DEATH.

1646, May 16.

Father Jogues remained but a few months in his native country. On his return
to Canada, he was commissioned by the Governor of that province to proceed to
the Mohawks, to congratulate that tribe on the conclusion of a recently negotr&ted
treaty. He sat out with some Indians for the scene of his former sufferings in com-
pany with Sleur Bourdon, royal engineer, and arrived on the festival of Corpus
Christi, at Lake Andiatorocte, to which, in honor of the day, he gave the name of
the Lake of the Blessed Sacrament. Embarking, soon after, on the waters of
Ologue, (" called by the Dutch the River Mauritius,") they at length arrived at
Fort Orange, June 4, where they were most hospitibly received, and after a short
sojourn proceeded to Oneugioure. the first castle of the Mohawks. Presents were
here exchanged in ratification of the peace; the French received every assurance
of future welcome, and took their leave June 16, much gratified at the friendly
manner In which they had been treated.

Encouraged now by the hope that a way was at length open for the light of
Christianity. Jogues again returned to the Mohawk country. Superstition, the hand-
maid of ignorance, was busy in the meantime arousing the prejudice of the savages
against him. At his departure in June he left with his hosts, as a guarantee of his
return, a small box containing some necessaries for which he should have occasion.

/-''// 4 1

Fathku Isaac Jogues.

THE NEW YORK]

PUBLIC LIBRARY. I

TlLOaN FOU^;D^T10^i3.

OF THE State of New York. 215

sickness unfortunately broke out during his absence among the tribe, and the worm
destroyed their harvest. They became now convinced that he had left the Evil One
in that box, and on his re-appearance among them, they stripped him of his clothing,
Oct. 17, beat him with heavy clubs, and, as he was entering a wigwam to supper,
he was treacherously felled with an axe, his head cut off and stuck on the palisades,
and his sainted body flung into the river, Oct. 18. The Mohawk country is known
since In Catholic annals as " The Mission of the Martyrs."* — O'Callaghan, ii. 299,
■^00.

Note of Hand to the Deacons of the Church of Rensselaerswyck, Anno 1647.

I, the undersigned, Anthonie de Hooges, have, on the part of the Noble Patroon
of the Colonie Rensselaerswyck, borrowed from the Diaconie of the aforesaid
place, for the term of one year, to be repaid in cash, at the option of the lenders,
with ten per cent interest per annum, the sum of three hundred guilders in seawan,
whereof one hundred and twenty is in ordinary seawan, promising thankfully to
produce at the aforesaid time, in stated specie aforesaid, to the Diaconie of the
aforesaid place. In testimony whereof, have I subscribed this Acte with mine
own hand. Actum R. Wyck, 9tb May, 1647.— O'Caliaghan's History of New
Netherland, Vol. i. 471.

♦ Relation, 1645-6., 59; lb. 1647., 6, 7, 125, 127, 128; Creuxius, 457. Father Jogneft*
Missal, Ritual, and a few of his clothes, were afterwards presented by the savages
to the Rev. Mr. Megapolensie.

1646

1647-
1664

216 Ecclesiastical Records

ADMINISTEATION OF PETER STUYVESANT.

May 11, 1647 — 1664, Sept. 5.

Resignation of Rev. Evekaedus Bogakdus.

Note of Valentine on Bogardus. — Everardus Bogardus, domine, the first estab-
lished clergyman In this city, arrived here in 1633. A church, constructed of wood,
was erected for him on the present north side of Pearl street, between Whitehall
and Broad streets. This edifice being exposed to an assault, should the Indians
surprise the community while at their devotions, was abandoned in the time of the
Indian War of 1642, at which time a church was erected within the walls of the
fort, where Domine Bogardus afterwards officiated. He married in this city the
widow of Roelof Jansen, one of the earliest settlers. This lady owned, in right of
her former husband, a farm on the North river, in the neigljborhood of the present
Canal street, containing sixty two acres, which had been granted to Mr. Jansen Jn
1638. At the time of her marriage to Domine Bogardus she had four children, and
by Domine Bogardus she had also four children. This farm was, in the year 1671,
conveyed by the heirs, with the exception of one of her sons, Cornelius, to Governor
Lovelace, and became afterwards the property of Trinity Church. Her son Cor-
nelius, not having joined in the conveyance, his heirs claim one eighth interest In
this valuable property, which has been the subject of litigation for many years, and
is well known as the "Anneke Jans' suit ". The residence of Domine Bogardus in
this city was on the present V/hitehall street, east side, between Bridge and Stone
streets. Having embarked on board the ship Princess in the year 1647, on a visit
to his fatherland, the vessel was cast away on the English coast, and Mr. Bogardus,
with more than eighty others, perished. He was succeeded in the pastoral charge of
the Dutch congregation in this city by the Rev. Johannes Backerus. It was to be re-
marked that the original name of the family was Bogart or Bogaert, the termina-
tion us, assumed by him being then a common custom among clergymen and other
professors of learning, as giving a classical distinction to the ordinary name. The
name of his successor was originally " Backer ", or it would be called In English,
the Rev. John Baker. Subsequently, in this city, the Rev. Messrs. Megapolensis,
Drlseius, Sellnus and others, held the pastoral charge of the congregation. — Valen-
tine's New York, pp. 131-133.

1647.

Note of O'Callaghan on the times. — " Where the shepherd errs the sheep
go astray." Drunkenness and broils were of common occurrence. The people were
" without discipline, and approaching to a savage state." " A fourth part of the
city of New Amsterdam consisted of grogshops and houses where nothing Is to be
got but tobacco and beer." Religion and education felt the baneful effects of these
evil influences. The church which had been commenced in 1642, remained still un-
finished, as if the country were without timber or a sawmill. The Director General
being distressed for money, applied to his own use the fines and forfeitures which
had been appropriated to aid the completion of this sacred edifice.*

In the meanwhile no efforts were made to convert the heathen, between whom
and the settlers an unlicensed intercourse generally prevailed. And, though a col-
lege had been founded in Massachusetts some nine years before, the authorities of

• Alb. Rec. 11.. 160, 190, 262, 369; Iv., 1; vil., 2S, 29, 38, 300. Van der Donck's Ver-
toogh, c. xi. Wei is waer dat den Directeur Kieft, verlegen synde om gelt, in syn
buys hadde hangen een bos, daer de Dlakenen een sleutel van hadden, daerln alle
cle'yne breuken en boeten, die op de rechtdagen voor vielen gesteken waren; met
kennisse van de diaconen heeft geopent, en 't ^'elt dat een moye somme was, op
intresr genomen. — Van Tienhoveu Cort Bericht.

OF THE State of ISTew York. 217

New Netherland made little or no effort, up to this time, to establish a common
primary school In any part of this country. Some subscriptions had been entered
into by the commonalty for the purpose of erecting a school-house In New Amster-
dam, but their funds were also misappropriated, and this laudable undertaking
failed in consequence.

Such was the state of disorganization into which the public affairs had fallen,
when General Petrus Stuyvesant assumed the government of New Netherland. —
O'Callaghau's History of New Netherland, Vol. 1. 395, 396.

Death of Rev. Everardus Bogardus.

1647.

Having thus triumphed, and achieved what he considered ample vengeance over
his enemies, Kleft prepared to depart for Fatherland. The Rev. Everardus Bogar-
dus had already resigned his office as pastor of New Anasterdam, and had obtained
permission to return home, and Fiscal Van der Huyghens was about to accompany
his late chief. They embarlied in the Princess, Kleft taking with him specimens
of his tested minerals, and a cargo estimated at twenty thousand pounds. On the
passage home, the mariners mistook the channel, entered the Severn, and were cast
away on the coast of Wales, near Swansea. Eighty one souls, men, women, and
children, perished in that unfortunate vessel, and of the cargo nothing was saved
but a few furs. " I told Wlliem Kieft," said De Vries, in 1643, " that I doubted
not that vengeance for the Innocent blood which he had shed in his murderings,
would, sooner or later, come on his head." This prophecy was fulfllleu with awful
precision, overwhelming alike friend and foe, the innocent and the guilty. Kleft,
Van der Huyghens, and Bogardus perished in this dreadful shipwreck; the last
mentioned leaving a widow and a large family to lament his loss.

A misfortune so terrible, might be expected to have excited sympathy and sorrow
In all hearts. But strange as it may seem, all looked upon Kieft's death as an act
of retributive justice. In New England, it was considered " that the solemn provi-
dence of God had appeared therein, to bear witness against those who had so many
years injured his own people in those parts, which some could not pass by without
due acknowledgment and observation." He sunk into his watery grave, unlamented
even by those in whose service he had passed ten years, who now were of opinion,
that it had been better had he been obliged, by himself or his friends, to Justify
h!s conduct.

The vacancy created in the ministry, by the retirement of Domine Bogardus, wa3
flUed by the appointment of the Rev. Johannes Backerus, formerly pastor at Cura-
coa. The salary of this clergyman was one hundred guilders per month, and two
hundred guilders per annum for board, a stipend equal to five hundred and sixty
dollars. With all this he was still unwilling to remain. He had, therefore, the
promise that another minister should be appointed in his place, if his Indisposition
to remain In the county continued. But If the Director should not deem his removal
advisable, then his allowance for board was to be increased. — O'Callaghan's His-
tory of New Netherland, Vol. 11. 34, 35, 36.

Note on Annetje Jans, widow of domine Bogardus. — Annetje Jans, widow of
Domine Bogardus, survived her husband nearly sixteen years. She died In Bever-
wyck, in 1663. She had by her first marriage, Sarah RoeloCfsen, (who married Sur-
geon Hans Kierstede;) Catrlna Roeloffsen, (who married Johannes Van Burgh;)
Fytje Roeloffsen, (who married Pieter Hartgers;) and one son, Jan, unmarried
at his mother's death. By her second husband, she had Willem, Cornells,
Jonas, and Pieter Bogardus. All her property real and personal, was by
will, (dated 29th January, 1663, and of record In the original Dutch in Albany,)
divided equally among her children, on condition that the four first named should
receive one thousand guilders from the proceeds of the farm which she owned on
the North River, Manhattan Island. This farm, called " the Domlne's Bowerv."
contained sixty two acres, and was granted originally to Roeloff Jansen, in 1636,

1647

218 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

conflriued to his widow and heirs in 1654, and again to the latter, in 1667. On the
9th March, 1671, Wlllem Bogardus, for himself and brothers, Jan and Jonas, and
two of Annetje Jans' sons-in-law, (acting in right of their wives, and by assignment
of Peter Bogardus,) conveyed this Bowery to Col. Francis Lovelace, then Governor
of New York, from whom, it is inferred, the title passed to the Duke of York and
the Crown, after which, it formed part of what was, successively, called " the
Duke's Farm," " the King's Farm," and " the Queen's Farm." In the year 1705,
this last was conveyed by Letters Patent, under the great seal of the province, to
the Corporation of Trinity Church, New York, in whose possession it has since, for
the most part, been. The Bogardus Farm, or the Domine's Bowery, extended from
a line a little south of the present Warren Street, forming an irregular triangle,
having its base on the River, running, however, along Broadway, only from Warren
to Duane. Cornells Bogardus, third son of Annetje Jans, not having been a party
to the conveyance to Governor Lovelace, his heirs claim a share of this extensive
property; the prosecution of which has formed t&e subject of various, though un-
successful suits In Chancery against the Church. (Paige's Chan. Reports, iv. 178;
Opinion of the Hon. Vice Chan. Sanford in re Bogardus et al. vs. Trinity Church;
New York, 1847, 8vo. pp. 40.) The Rev. Domine Bogardus held a tract of land also
on the north side of Mespath's Kill, L. I., which went by the name of " Domine's
Hook." The heirs sold this farm in 1668, to one John Sharp, for seven thousand
nine hundred and fifty guilders. — O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol.
il. 35.

Synod of North Holland, at Hoorn.

Art. 17. East and West India Affairs.

1647, Aug. 12 et seq.

Regarding tlie twenty second article, (1646) reciting at leng-th
the Plan as to the East and West Indian Affairs, as well as the
acceptance of it by other corresponding Synods, it was under-
stood after an elaborate explanation (openinge) that we will for
reasons abide by the said Plan. Meantime we will try to induce
all the objecting Synods to accept of the said Plan, at some time
or other.

(The following item relating to Brazil is important because
about this time (1647) Dutch authority and colonizing was break-
ing up there, by reason of Portugal's restoration as an independ-
ent Kingdom ; and the scattering of churches and preachers must
have had a bearing on ecclesiastical events in New Netherland.)

Art. 39. West Indies.

Extracts from a letter from Brazil, June 10th, 1646.

They complain greatly of the great burdens and anxiety which
they have suffered during this revolt, (the return of the Portu-
guese to power.)

OF THE State of Xew York. 219

Thej show by what sort of management they have acquitted
themselves in the support of poor and ailing persons. They
request also that some aid be given to the poor Bra2dlians, who
gave them good assistance during this war: and that a collection
should be taken up for that purpose, to be sent over at the earliest
opportunity, in order to recompense the loyalty of the Brazilians,
to encourage them in the faith, and to keep them friendly. They
request grave (deftige) ministers, particularly, to be employed
in the church on the SeciCe.

They have united their two Classes into one, and request the
approval thereof by the gentlemen of the Nineteen.

This past year, on account of the troubles, neither ministers nor
siekentroosters have been sent thither.

Art. 41. Rev. Grasmeer; Graftdyck.
Rev. William Grasmeer, minister at Graftdyck, with his elder,
showed the pressing necessity for the building of their preach-
ing-houses or churches, in two distant neighborhoods. He re-
quests of this Synod favor and recommendation to the several
Classes for the furtherance of so pious a work. At the same
time a statement was made as to the special work of edification
there^, through the blessing of the Lord, in a very zealous, al-
though a newly organized church. Also its condition of poverty,
but none the less its liberality towards the said work were also
learned; and also that the churches of the Classis of Alkmaer,
to which it belongs, has generously contributed their share.
Wherefore it was unanimously agreed by the several Classes to
recommend this request favorably, to each church within its o^vn
bounds, and as far as in them lies, to facilitate it.

Classis of Amsterdam.
Acts of the Deputies. Points for Remonstrance [or Memorial.]

1647, Sept. 16th.
The points were read which will be laid before the Assemblies
of the XVIT and XIX. The matter shall be attended to by Rev.
Wilmerdonck and the Clerk.

1647

220 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

The points to form the basis of Eemonstrance to the East
India Company, or the XVII, are as follows:

Whereas the lack of ministers in the East Indies is great, and
next year six are about to depart thence, whose years of engageh
ment have expired: It is therefore requested by the Classis of
Amsterdam in the name of the Churches in the East Indies, that
a good and sufficient number of ministers may still be sent thither,
who could serve the churches in the Indies unto their further up-
building in Christianity.

And in order the better to induce the ministers who have some
inclination to go thither, it is requested in the name of our
Classis: That the widows of ministers who die in the employ of
the Messrs. Directors may be provided with a certain amount
of salary during their condition as widows.

Inasmuch as nothing is more favorable to edification among
populations of foreign tongues, than that ministers make rather
a prolonged stay in foreign lands, in order not only that they
may learn the languages, but may perform evident and recog-
nizable good ser\dces among them: We therefore suggest to
the Hon. Gentlemen, whether the best means thereunto be not
these: That the ministers in the East Indies be given such
salaries that they would not only be glad to stay there for five
years, but even for ten years, or more; that thus they might joy-
fully and eagerly perform the duties of their office there. Such
salary (inducements?) we judge to consist not only in this, that
they are honorably recognized, in accordance with the admonition
of Paul in 1 Thess. 5:12; "We besceech you, brethren, to know
(recognize) them which labor among you, and are over you in
the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in

OF THE State of E^ew Yoek. 221

love for their work's sake"; but, in addition, that they shall not
be compelled to adjust themselves to another form of church
government than that which they have here in this country.
For they should be one with us, as in doctrines so in government.
And, finally, that they be not disappointed in the expectation of
those conditions, which, besides the building up of the Church
of God, have invited them thither; namely, that they shall find
yonder a free dwelling, or at least sufficient housing, monthly
payments, and all such things as make their salary full and
complete.

IV.

The Rev. Vertrecht, minister at Banda, exhibits the hope of
edification among the people of the newly discovered islands to
the east and south of Banda. Request is accordingly made that
religion may be planted there, and that Rev. Vertrecht be em-
ployed for the furtherance of that important work.

The Consistory of Batavia complains of the great necessities
of the poor there, and requests that the legacies made for the
poor at Batavia may be exhibited, (spread out) and that they
may come safely to hand.

VI.

Requests are to be made for some books which may be useful
in the churches and schools; indicating also the list (register) to
be sent over:

Also certain books which might be printed, or be reprinted,
as follows:

1. Some Psalms in Malay; some in Portuguese, as arranged by
Abraham Rogerin, sent over in the year 1644.

2. The question book of Aldegonde, and the Small Cate-
chism; to which were added by Mr. Biers the passages in the
scriptures, translated into Portuguese, sent over in Anno 1645.

3. The Malay Postilla, entitled " Amput Bias ", sent over in
1646.

164 r

1647

222 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

4. That the " Dictionariiim Danskar " be reprinted; and that
Rev. Hurmius be requested to add some " vocabula " to it.

VII.

That Rev. Cornelius Geeftdoop, proponent in Sacred Theology,
is inclined to employ his gifts in the service of God's Church
in the East Indies; but as he is rather young yet, and ought to
have some more study for preaching, the Hon. Messrs. Directors
are to be asked, if for a year or two he may not enjoy some sub-
sidy, so as to carry his studies to further increase and maturity
and then let him be employed as minister in the East Indies, xx.
183, 185.

Points for the West India Company, the XIX.

The following are the points, which shall be made the basis
of a remonstrance (or Memorial) to the West India Company.

Inasmuch as the number of ministers in Brazil, both by reason
of death and of departure to the Fatherland, has greatly de-
creased; and also many of the Siecken-Troosters have gone away;
that request be made for a larger number of ministers, and five
or six more good men as Krankbezoekers.

That in the Classis of Brazil, which now by order of the
Assembly of the XIX is no longer to be called a Synod, but only
a Classis, the session of " Politicals " therein may cease, in ac-
cordance with the practice of all the Classes in the Fatherland;
and that this continue until the churches increase, and are divided
into several Classes, and a Synod be organized out of these: in
this Synod, then, even as in the home country the High Author-
ity (civil power) may have its seat.

III.

As correspondence with all the Synods is impracticable, and
the Classis of Brazil now judges, Art. 9, session 3, that it would

OF THE State of 'N'ew York. 223

be harmful to its churches; request is to be made not to accede
to such a proposal of correspondence.

IV.

Eequest is to be made that the Acta of the jSTorth Holland
Synod, from the year 1640 down, as desired by the Kev. Breth-
ren in Brazil, be copied, and sent to them, at the charges of the
Company.

That the Jews be checked in their insolence, and the Papists
in their liberty; referring to the 2nd Article, session 7, and the
3rd Article, session 9.

VI.

That the church on the Recife, [Part of the Capital of Brazil,]
has need of an English preacher, unless the brethren of Zeeland
have already provided for this: request is also made for a preacher,
who can officiate in the German and French languages.

vn.

Rev. James Burg, minister at San Paulo Loando, asks for his
dismissal because the years of his engagement have expired.
This has been granted him by the Classis. The Hon. Gentlemen
are requested to consent to the looking out for another minister
in his place who may be sent thither.

VIII.

Also that Guinea, where now for three years no minister has
been, may be provided with a good minister.

IX.

That the Brazilians, faithful servants of the Company, be given
money, (subsidized,) and be offered the helping hand, both by
the Company, and by the other Classes, in their necessities and
impoverished nakedness, xx. 185, 186.

1647

224 Ecclesiastical Records

Election" of the IsTine Representatives.
Extract from Stiiyresant's Charter as to Religions.

1647, Sept. 22.

" Whereas, We desire nothing more than that the government of New Nether-
land, entrusted to our care, and principaily New Amsterdam, our capital and
residence, might continue and increase in good order, justice and police, population,
prosperity and mutual harmony, and be provided with strong fortifications, a
church, a school, trading place, harbor and similar highly necessary public edifices
and improvements, for which end We are desirous of obtaining the assistance of
our whole commonalty, as nothing is better adapted to promote their own welfare
and comfort, and as such is required in every well regulated government.

I. As good and faithful Interlocutors and Trustees of the Commonalty, they
shall endeavor to exert themselves to promote the honor of God, and the welfare
of our dear Fatherland, to the best advantage of the Company, and the prosperity
of our good citizens; to the preservation of the pure Reformed Religion as it here,
and in the Churches of the Netherlands, is inculcated. — O'Callaghan's History of
New Netherland, Vol. ii. 37, 38.

Memorial to the XIX.

1647, Oct. 28th.

These points which are memorialized to the Assembly of the
XIX, and the resolutions required; also those things which are
resolved by both the East and West India Companies, — are to
be taken in copies. These are to be inserted in the Classical
book, and the principal points shall be annexed to the East and
West India letters, xx. 191.

Improvements Suggested as to Church and School.

1647.

Having thus organized this popular body, with a view to exercise a more
powerful influence over the inhabitants, whose co-operation he required in carry-
ing out the orders of his superiors, Director Stuyvesant lost no time In calling
their special attention to the condition of the fort and of the church, to the state
of public education in New Amsterdam, as well as to the mean appearance of the
city itself. The greater part of the houses were built of wood and covered with
straw; many of the chimnies were also of wood, all of which circumstances con-
tributed greatly to endanger the public safety. The education of the children had
of late been neglected altogether, and owing to the want of proper accommoda-
tions, no school had been kept for three months.

The " Nine Men," representing Manhattan, Breukelen, Amersfoort, and Pavonia,
were therefore summoned to deliberate with the Director General, on these various
and important questions.

He (Stuyvesant) communicated, 'at the same time, his consent to defray, on be-
half of the Company, a portion of the expenses, necessary for the encouragement

OF THE State of ISTew Yoek. 225

of education, and to continue such assistance in future, " to promote tlie glorious
worlj." Meanwhile, he Informed them, that a convenient place for a school house
and dwelling for the Schoolmaster, would be provided for the winter, either in one
of the out-houses belonging to the Fiscal's department, which the Director Gen-
eral would prefer, or any other suitable place that the deacons of the church
might approve. He recommended them to make proper regulations for the pre-
vention of flres, and reverted particularly to the necessity of completing the
church, which Kieft had commenced five years before, and which remained still
unfinished.

The arrangements for public education and for completing the church met with
no objection, but the plan for repairing the fortifications was absolutely con-
demned. — O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol. 11. 41, 42.

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acta of the Deputies. Henrj Dries (Drisius).

1647, Oct. 28tli.

Henry Dries* having good witness among the brethren, whereof
he shall bring evidence, read and sang, and gave the brethren
complete satisfaction therein. They are therefore disposed to
advance him, at his request, in the capacity of Krankbezoeker;
but inasmuch as at present he intends to take a voyage, he shall
be attended to on his return, in the future, xx. 191.

Letters to the East and "West Indies.

1647, Nov. 26th.

The letters to be sent to the East and West Indies were read;
one to the Consistory at Bata via; onetoBanda; one to Amboyna;
and also a letter to Brazil. These w^ere all approved by the
brethren, xx. 192.

Rev. Simon Welmerdonckius in the Chair.

1648, Jan. 27th.

Rev. John Megapolensis, Jr., pastor at Rentselaerswyck in
New Netherland, requests his dismissal: the brethren in the city
will confer Avith the executors of Rentselaer, and his widow.
XX. 193.

* Probably a relative of Rev. Samuel Drisius of New York.
15

226 Ecclesiastical Records

Adrian Cornelisse; (John Backerus.)

1648,* Jan. 27tb.

Adrian Cornelisse — the brother of Rev. John Backerus who
has been minister at Curacoa and who has now arrived with
Director Stujvesant in jSTew ISTetherland — makes known that his
brother has written for his dismissaL The letters, however, had
been delayed on account of the ship-wreck. He now presents
himself in the name of his brother, to ask for his dismissaL He
was answered, that so far as lieth in us, we shall seek to procure
his dismissal. We hope to succeed, especially as it is understood
that the Messrs. Directors are much inclined to call Rev. John
Megapolensis from Rensselaerswyck in IsTew ISTetherland, (to Man-
hattan). This shall be made known to Classis, and its advice
sought. XX. 193.

Ordee of Council ox an Application of the Town of Flush-
ing FOR A Minister.

On the first of February, 1648.

William Harck, Sheriff at Flushing, and his associates, appeared in Council and
request that the Honorable Director General and Council would favor them with
a pious, learned and reformed minister; and then order that each inhabitant should
contribute to such godly work according to his ability, and that an end be put to
the present differences in a manner, that shall promote peace, quietness and
unanimity in said town, and that they jointly may live under the protection of
their High Mightinesses, his Highness of Orange, the Honorable Lords Directors,
and the present administration here.

Thomas Sael, John Laurence and William Turner, the opposite party, thereto
delegated by the remainder of their side, request the same as the sheriff and hla
associates abovementioned have asked.

The above parties having been heard in Council and the justness of their re-
quest being seen, the Honorable Director General and Council resolve to enact
such order on their application and request as shall be found to promote peace,
union and tranquility both in ecclesiastical and civil affairs. — Col. Docs. N. Y.
xlv. 82.

• This was the year and the month of the Peace of Westphalia, and the end of
" The Eighty Years War ". Bogardus left Manhattan with Kieft, in 1647, and
this vessel was lost off the coast of Wales. These letters seem to have been on
this ship. John Backerus has generally been known heretofore, without the
middle name of Cornelius but these many notes show, that Cornelius was his
father's name, and therefore, according to custom, his middle name.

OF THE State of ISTew York. 227

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Backerus requests to East Indies. — Letter from ]^ew

JSTetherland. Rev. Megapolensis.

1648, Feb. 10th.
There was also read to the meeting hj the Kev. Deputies, a
letter which had arrived from 'New JSTetherland, from John Mega-
polensis, minister at Rensselaer's "Wyck. He requested two
things :

1. His dismission, as his term of six years will soon have ex-
pired.

2. The procurement of another capable person in his place.
Three matters were left in the charge of the Rev. Deputies to

further, so far as lay in their power, in the best manner possible:

1. To request a dismission of Rev. Backerus.

2. That Rev. Megapolensis be transferred to Manhattan.

3. That John Hermanren of Til (Thiel, in Gelderland) be
sounded in regard to his going to Rensselaer's Wyck. They
should first confer carefully on this matter with the patroons (of
Rensselaer's Wyck) regarding the salary, and the whole business.
V. 67; xxxix. 177.*

Rev, Peter "Wittenwrougel in the Chair.

1648, Feb. 24th.
The Rev. President reported that the widow Rentselaer and
the executors had been consulted in reference to the case of Meg-
apolensis; but there seemed little likelihood that another pastor
would be settled there. They must first receive communications
from the Colony, and this would be too much trouble to the afore-
said widow. XX. 194.

1648

* Last extract from Vol. xxxlx.

1648

228 Ecclesiastical Records

Rev. John Van Sauen in the Chair.

1648, April 7th [or 27].

The clerk reported that at the instance of Classis, he had writ-
ten to Rev. John Megapolensis, pastor in the colony of Renselaers-
wyck, and that he would copy the letter and place it in the minute
book. XX. 198.

1648, April 7th.

Rev. (John) Megapolensis, pastor at Renselaer'swyck, having
requested his dismission, to return to his Fatherland, the Rev.
Brethren, Deputati ad res Indicas, will seek to encourage him to
remain; and in case of failure, to secure the appointment, if pos-
sible, of another in his place, xxvi. 1.

(This and several subsequent items of the Acts of the Classis
proper, were entered by mistake in the Volumes of Correspond-
ence, which begin with Vol. xxvi. The Acts of the Classis are in
Vols, i-xviii. Vol. xix. consists of Extracts from the Acts of the
Classis, 1655-1705. Vols, xx-xxv. are the Acts of the Deputies.)

Letter written to Rev. John Megapolensis.*

1648, April 7th.

The clerk represented that in compliance with the direction of
Classis, he had written to Rev. John Megapolensis, minister in
the colony of Rensselaerswyck. The letter shall be copied and
spread in the Book (of Correspondencie) of Classis (Vol. xxvi.)
XX. 198.

Directors in Holland to Peter Stuyvesant; the Ship
" Princess " Lost With Dir. Kieft and Domine Bogardus
ON" Board; Church Matters; ....

Duplicate. 1G4S April 7th.
Honorable, Dear and Faithful Friends.
By the ship " de Valckenler " we have duly received two of your letters, the
last dated the 6th of October of 1-ast year, the first having no date, the originals
of which had been sent by the ship " The Princess ". We notice by your last
letter, that this ship had left your coast about the 16th of August, but we did
not receive your letters, sent by the same, as it was wrecked in the Channel on
the 27th of September, and eighty one souls, men, women and children were lost,

♦"Megapolensis" Is the Greclzed form of " Mekkelenburg ", a town In
Germany — not " Mechelen " in Belgium. Mekkelen z= Mega, burg = polls; hence
" Megapolensis ".

OF THE State of IjTew Yoek. 229

among them the former Director, William Kleft, Domine Bogardus,* and Fiscal
van der Hoyckens; of her cargo nothing has-been saved except a lot of peltries,
part of which has been stolen, and what floated on the strand has been sold for
2sh. 6d. the piece and later for Ish. English money. The skipper remained there
skulking about so long, that it created suspicion; it seems, that thieves are always
connected with such misfortunes; the Lord may comfort the sufferers.

1648

How very Inopportune the mishap of the " Princess " has come, especially as
regards your request, will be stated hereafter; we shall first reply to your report
on the state of our conquests, in which you complain, that the people are grown
very wild and loose in their morals. It seems to have principally been caused by
the weakness of the late Director, and the neglect of his duties by the preacher.
We expect your Honor will amend all this; but a tree grown too high, and too
luxuriantly, must be trimmed carefully, and bent by a tender hand, giving it a
good shape.

It is true, that people are busy at the Hague before their High. Might, to bring
about a general reform for all the colonies of this Company, and New Netherland
will not be forgotten; a provisional resolution has already been passed, that all
colonists there shall be allowed to ship their own products, as flour, fishes, meat,
bacon, peas, beans and everything else, in their own, or chartered, bottoms to
Brazil and Angola; that the ships returning may take freight from Brazil; but
those coming back from Angola are to bring Negroes to be employed in farming.
This resolution will show your Honor, that we too have the right to send a ship
to Angola with an assortment of provisions and bring back negroes. Your Honor
will therefore please to take quickly advantage of it with the provisions, which
you report to have in abundance.

We were sorry to learn of the great disorder, which your Honor has found there
In Church matters, principally caused by Domine Bogardus. The proverb " Where
the shepherd errs, the sheep go astray " fitly applies to this case. He, with
others, has beeu relieved from rendering his account, while In the meantime the
church remains in a troubled state and unprovided; although your Honor has pro-
visionally allowed Domine Backer, formerly preacher at Curacao, to remain there
some time. As he, however, has previously received his letter dismlssory from the
Classis, he cannot be held there against his will. We shall look out here for a
man fit to attend to the church there. Your Honor believes, that the congregation
would be well satisfied with Domine Megapolensis, preacher at Rensselaerwyck,
without stating, whether he can obtain his letter of dismissal from there without
trouble; also whether he cannot work there with as good results, as in the church
at New Amsterdam. We expect to receive on this point a more detailed report
in your next, according to which we shall act. It must also be considered, that
this plan cannot be well carried out without the consent of the Colonists.

The erection of a church building has really been necessary, but we notice also
that it has been very expensive: the Colony cannot yet bear such expenses.

Commending you herewith to God's protection we remain.
Honorable Dear and Faithful Sir,
Your Honor's true friend,

The Directors of the West India Company,

Department of Amsterdam. J. Specx.

David van Baerle.
Amsterdam April 7th, 1G4S.

— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 82, 83, 84, 87.

• A somewhat leugthv sketch of Bev. Everardus Bogardus written by D. T. Val-
entine Is found in his " Manual of the Common Council of New York " for the year
18G3, pages 595-608, embracing some of the documents herein given.

1648

230 Ecclesiastical Records

Classis of Amstbedam.

Acts of the Deputies, and their Correspondence. — The Classis of
Amsterdam to Rev. John Megapolensis, April 8th, 1648.
xxvi. page 1.

Rev. Wise, etc.

Your communication came duly to hand a few weeks since.
It was agreeable to hear of your good health. We hope that
the good God may yet spare you many years for the service of
his church, which we desire to have built up and extended in all
quarters of the world.

You have labored faithfully in that colony of ISTew ISTetherland,
which has thus far been under your supervision. ISTow that the
years of your compact are drawing to a close, you request your
dismissal.

We have considered your request as just and reasonable, and
have therefore, at different times conferred with the testamentary
guardians of the family of the deceased (sterfhuis) Patroon, re-
questing them to be pleased to give us authority to look about for
another qualified person, who may succeed you in the capacity of
pastor and minister of the divine word. We have urged this
upon many, since it would be deplorable in itself, and prejudicial
to the glory of Grod, as well as injurious to the people, if such a
number of people should be left without a pastor.

But inasmuch as the partners in this colony could not agree
with the guardians of the family of the deceased Patroon, and
were at variance among themselves, we could not reach any result.
Some time ago they sent a certain person to the colony, upon
whom large powers of direction in the church were conferred.
They desire first to be better informed as to the state of affairs
before they determine to send another pastor.

OF THE State of JSTew York. 231

In the meantime we shall not be negligent in securing your
object. We doubt not but that the guardians of the house of the
Messrs. Renselaer, will inform you more particularly.

The brethren of Classis wish that you would continue there
until some one succeeds you; otherwise what you have built up
may easily be broken down; and the church there, which is now
enjoying reasonable growth, as we have learned with satisfaction
and joy from your letter, would become demoralized, to the detri-
ment of Grod's glory and the injury of the colony. And inasmuch
as the compact expires in August, it will perhaps be only a matter
of a few months.

Domine Backerus, who is at present supplying the Manhattans
in the place of Kev. Bogardus, who sadly perished by shipwreck
on his passage, as also some of your relatives, much to our sorrow,
would also like very much to return home, as we learn from his
friends, although his own letters have not yet reached us. But
not knowing the state of that church exactly, we have not been
able to dispose of that business. We shall, however, await fur-
ther advices thence.

"We wish that his Excellency could be informed of this," when
opportunity offers, as we have scarcely the time to send you even
these few lines ; for the vessel got ready to sail without our knowl-
edge, and the bearer of this is waiting to depart. Having no
other business to present, I will close by committing you to God
and the word of his grace. We desire that he may bless your
labors more and more to the winning of many souls. With our
hearty respect, we are and remain.

Your Friends to command, and Brethren, the Bespc-
tive Members of the Rev. Classis of Amsterdam.

In the name of all

B. Wittenwrongel.

1648

232 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

John Bakkerus.

1648, June 29th.
A letter was read from Rev, John Backenis, of iS'ew iN'ether-
land. This explained that he had received his dismissal from
the chnrch at Ciiracoa, and had, against his intention and inclina-
tion, been forced to remain with the people of 'New ISTetherland.
This was because Rev. Bogardus was about to sail for the Father-
land, with Director Kieft for important reasons, namely, to seek
to terminate their disputes of long standing, by both appearing
before the Directors. Inasmuch as the said minister (Bogardus)
was wi-ecked on this voyage, he (Backerus) now requested, that
as soon as possible another good minister might be sent in his
place. It was resolved to communicate the above mentioned
letter to the Rev. Classis.* xx. 200.

St^stod of iSToRTH Holland, at Enckhuyzen.
Art. 19. East and West India Affairs.

1648, Au^. 11 et seq.
Regarding Art. 17 (1647) relating to the Plan about the East
and West India affairs : It is understood that the said Plan will
be adhered to. It is also found that the same Plan had been ac-
cepted by all the corresponding Synods excepting that of Utrecht,
as appears ex actis Synodi Ultrajectina, 1647. Therefore our
correspondent, who shall go thither, shall put forth every amicable
endeavor and inducement to persuade the said Rev. Synod like-
wise to accept the Plan even as the others have done.

Extracts from Minutes of other Synods.
Extracts from the Acts of the Synod of Gelderland and Zut-
phen, held at Arnhem in September, 1647.

As to East and West India Affairs, the Plan of the Synods of
Holland are accepted provisionally.

• Backerus was, therefore, only a temporary supply of the church of New
Amsterdam.

OF THE State of i^EW York. 233

1648

Classis of Amsterdam.

Correspondence from America. Rev. John Backerus to the Classis
of Amsterdam, August 15th, 1648, and September 2nd, 1648.

Reverend, Pious and Learned Brethren in Christ; Increase of
Honor, Piety and the Blessing of God be your reward : —

Whereas I have not yet received an answer to my former re-
quest from your Reverences, I continue to write on the same
subject. ^

I would have preferred to pay a visit to the Rev. Brethren, in-
stead of again greeting you by this dumb messenger. I have no
doubt, it might have been done ere now, as in answer to my wi'it-
ten request, I received permission to return to the Fatherland, if
I had not changed my mind. But upon my arrival in 'New [N'ether-
land from Curacoa, I heard a different song, and to which I had
to listen. In a short time, and much to my regret, I had to ob-
serve with my own eyes, that none of the officers here would come
to church, when our brother Domine Everardus Bogardus preached.
For there were such important questions and differences between
our said brother, on one side, and his Honor, General William
Kieft, with certain officials on the other, that there was a mutual
aversion. Inasmuch as this disagreeable dispute had grown to
such dimensions that it reached even to the borders of Holland,
we were unable to reconcile the parties or sm.oothe over matters.
Therefore, and probably also for other reasons, our brother, Do-
mine Bogardus, wished to go to Holland with Director William
Kieft, (for the settlement of these matters). Upon his request for
this object, he received much quicker permission than he expected
from his Honor, General Stuyvesant, because as I suppose, the
latter was not favorable to the former. Matters being in this con-
dition, I had to give up my own plans. After loo'king more
closely into the affairs, I had to sacrifice all my own intentions.
Necessity compelled me not to leave the congregation without a
pastor. I therefore took our brother's place, but I cannot conceal

1648

234 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

from the Rev. Brethren, that I hope, it will not be for longer than
the coming summer ; for then the place will again be vacant and
the congregation will be at liberty to choose another pastor. It
is somewhat different with the people here, from what it was in
Curacoa. In severing my connection at Curacoa, and removing,
only about six or seven church members remained behind, the
others having already left before, or leaving with me. As to
others, not known to be members, there are few, who, in my opin-
ion, are inclined to our religion, or to hearing the Holy Gos-
pel as taught here and in the churches of jSTetherland as well as
elsewhere. For that reason, and also because an able reader for
the people of our nationality, and a schoolteacher for the natives
of the country, were left there, I could the more easily, and with-
out conscientious scruples, remove. Especially could I do so, be-
cause I trust the Hon. Directors, upon a request by the Classis,
can easily send another good preacher there, if the community
should increase in numbers, and if the natives should acquire a
little more knowledge ; and especially if the Word and the Admin-
istration of the Sacraments should become necessary there, from
the desires of the people for the same.

But here (in E'ew IN'etherland) where there is already a goodly
number of people, and who also daily increase, the harvest will be
much greater, and the service and work of a preacher is much
more necessary. Therefore I was not able to leave this place so
easily with a free and untroubled (conscience) nor would I like to
do it, at all until this congregation had first been provided with
another able and God fearing teacher.

I therefore humbly, but not the less urgently, request your Rev-
erences to do your best, to induce the Hon. Directors to send an-
other good preacher here as soon as possible, at least by next
summer, and discharge me from my long service. In order, that
the Rev. Brethren may properly consider my request, and obtain
this desired end, I woiUd like you to remember, that I have al-
ready served the Hon. Directors continuously for fifty seven

OF THE State of iN'EW Yokk. 235

montlis, I may say now, for sixty seven months; although the
term, fixed by my agreement, has long since expired.

That I had this place allotted to me, and remained here, as I
said before, for the service of this congregation, was against my
inclination. I am silent about other matters, which I prefer to
tell the brethren personally; (but I cannot stay) partly, because
as matters stand here, I find it impossible to live in comfort with
my family in this place with the meagre addition of two hundred
florins for board money; for I require for my table and clothing
all my monthly pay besides ; partly, because I do not wish to re-
main longer, even if I receive enough more that I could live upon
it; but I wish to be transferred from here to a place in Holland,
wherever the Lord may please to call me.

This is a copy of my former letters, one of which I sent to your
Reverences by the ship " Princess " ; the other by way of Vir-
ginia. I now think best to add the following lines: —

Your Reverences must understand that I persevere in my re-
quest as urgently as before. I have no doubt they will boldly de-
mand from the Hon. Directors my discharge in the spring; and
if, against my expectations, the Hon. Directors do not consent
to it, then I request you to submit, in my name, to their Honors,
that next summer I have been in their service for seven consecu-
tive years, although my contract was only for four; and that, if
they will not send anybody to relieve me, after having received
this notice from me and warning, as is proved by their letter to
our Director, it is then my intention and determination not to
remain here any longer. I shall then consider that I have good
reason for leaving their service and discharging myself, although
I should not like to leave here under such circumstances. I hope,
it will not have to be done thus. Having looked about for another
preacher as a substitute during three years there can be no doubt,
that he may be expected next spring. I shall therefore, prepare
myself accordingly, and then be ready to depart for the Father-
land.

1648

236 Ecclesiastical Records

My wife would have gone home with the wife of the preacher
at Fort Orange, (Megapolensis,) but as she is near her delivery
of a child, we thought it unadvisable, and resolved to go together
next summer. I have informed the Hon. Directors of this resolu-
tion, adding that I did not consider it contrary to the rules or
unreasonable, as their Honors themselves must admit; knowing
as they do, that at that time, I shall have served them seven con-
secutive years, although engaged for only four. Therefore they
have no right to keep me here longer, against my will and reso-
lution, and much to my disadvantage.

The congregation here numbers about one hundred and seventy
members. Most of them are very ignorant in regard to true
religion, and very much given to drink. To this they are led by
the seventeen tap-houses here. What bad fruits result therefrom,
your Reverences will easily understand. You will also learn
more in detail from ike bearer hereof, Master Jan Stevensen.
If you could obtain from the Hon. Directors an order for closing
these places, except three or four, I have no doubt, the source of
much evil and great offense would be removed.

The Rev. Brethren are requested to take care, that a pastor be
sent to this congregation. He must be allowed full liberty in de-
nouncing sin, for which he will find the way already prepared,
and he must do his duties with the good example of a decent life
himself.

It will also be very necessary for the Rev. Brethren, to send
over with such a preacher a good schoolmaster. He should not
only know how to read, write and cipher, but should also be a
man of pious life, and decent habits. He should have a good
knowledge of the principal points of our Faith, and set a holy
example to the children. In order to best help the church of God
here, and to resist a bad world, I think, we must begin with the
children; for many of the older people are so far depraved, that
they are now ashamed to learn anything good.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 237

1648

Herewith closing Reverend, Honorable, Pious and Learned
Classis, I commend your Reverences, with my humble salutations,
to the grace of the Most High. May He bless you with an in-
crease of your congregations,*

Your faithful servant,

Joannis Backerus,
At Manhatans Teacher of the Gospel,

in I^ew^N^etherland
Sept. 2nd Anno 1648.

Master Jan Stevensen, who has served the Company here as a
faithful schoolmaster and reader for six or seven consecutive
years, and is now leaving for home, has been informed by the
Director and Council, that he must pay his own fare. If this
is 80 imderstood in Holland, then the poor man will retain but little
of his salary ; for the fare for his passage would swallow up most
of it. Considering this fact, will not your Reverences please to
assist him with the Directors, that he may be exempted from this
hardship.

Correspondence from America. Rev. John Megapolensis to Classis

of Amsterdam.

Aug. 25th, 1648.

Reverend, Godly and Learned Fathers and Brethren in Christ.
The Grace of God be multiplied unto you : —

After the Lord God was pleased to cut short the thread of life
of Domine Bogardus by shipwreck, (1647), who was late preacher
at the Manhattans in New !N"etherland, his widow came here to
Fort Orange, in the colony of Rensselaerswyck, to reside and make
her living. She has nine living children, some by a former hus-
band and some by Domine Bogardus, and is also deeply in debt.
She has, however, no way to liquidate her debts, nor means for her
own subsistence, unless the West India Company pay her the ar-

• Repeated corrections lu the origlnnl hnve made portions of this letter very
lllealble.

238 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

1648

rears of salary due her husband. Domine Bogardus repeatedly

asserted that a higher salary was promised him, before leaving

Holland, than he ever received here. I shall, therefore, in order

to explain this, repeat, to the best of my recollection, what I have

heard from him.

It is now about two years since I was called upon by Director-
General William Kieft, to settle the difficulties between said Kieft
and Domine Bogardus. I attempted several times to smoothe the
differences which had arisen here, but all in vain. Domine Bo-
gardus asserted that it could not be done here, but that the matter
ought to be laid before the Hon. Directors ; or even if it could be
determined here, he would, nevertheless, be obliged to go home,
in order to demand, before his death, the salary promised him,
for the maintenance and support of his family. For if he himself
did not ask for it during the life time of those who knew about
it, it would be difficult to succeed through others.

For salary was promised to him as to other preachers in the
service of the Company, not by the Hon. Directors, but by the Rev.
Classis, or at least by the Deputies of the same; among these he
mentioned, if I am not mistaken, Domine Badius. He had urged
him to go to ITew ITetherland, and had promised to arrange with
the Company, that he should have a salary, the same as other
preachers in the service of the Company. ISFevertheless, he had
been paid for a considerable time only 46 guilders per month,
with 150 guilders extra per year, for board money. He asserted
that according to the promise made to him, there is still due him a
considerable sum for salary and board money. This is in sub-
stance what he told me about it, as far as I can remember ; and
if it be true, there ought to be in existence a written and signed
document to that effect, or at least a memorandum thereof by
some of the Rev. Deputies.

Annetje Bogardus, widow of Domine Bogardus, on the supposi-
tion that this is correct, has requested me to write to the Rev.
Classis, in her name and in her behalf, in order that the Rev.

OF THE State of JSTew York. 239

1648
Classis, or the Deputies thereof, might, for the sake of a preacher's
widow, petition the Company for the money due her, to be paid to
her or her attorney, to enable her to pay her debts and support
her family.

Last year I wrote to my Lord Patroon, and to the Kev. Dep-
uties for my discharge, and that some one else should be appointed
in my place^ But I have learned by a letter from Domine Wit-
tenwrongel, that I must have patience and remain here until the
summer of this year. I have therefore repeated my request in
letters to the Patroons and to the Kev. Deputies, as I herewith
do again, that another teacher be sent in the first ships to take my
place ; or at least that I should have permission to return home.
For as my term has expired, and my wife and children have all
returned to the Fatherland, I do not intend to remain here any
longer than the coming summer, when the ships return to Europe.

I think that I have remained at my station here in this wild
country (long enough,) and have had troubles and difficulties
enough. Another who may succeed me will find it better and more
comfortable. In conclusion, I commend you all to God and to the
word of his grace. Pemember me in your prayers.

Yours obediently,
Aug. 25th, 1648. Joannes Megapolensis.

Pev. Backerus.

1648, Sept. 14th.

A certain letter was read from Pev. Backerus, written in ISTew
ITetherland, in which he asks that he may be relieved from his
charge there, towards spring, and another minister, by that time,
be provided in liis place. The matter was referred to the Rev.
Brethren Deputati ad res Indicas. v. 99.

Pev. Megapolensis.

1648, Sept. 14th.

A certain letter was read from Pev. Megapolensis, minister at
Rensselaer's Wyck, in which he makes known his willingness to
remain there for the present year, but intends to leave for the

1648

240 Ecclesiastical 'Recoeds

Fatherland in the spring. He asks that by that time another
minister may be provided in his stead. It was resolved to commit
the procuring of the same to the Rev. Brethren Deputati ad res
Indicas, who shall also confer with the patrons of that church
on this matter, v. 100.

Matters Memorialized to the XIX.

1648, Sept. 28th.

It was reported that just as the Assembly of the XIX was
about to adjourn, and our regular sessions were about to begin,
that Rev. Eleazar Zwalmius,* together with the clerk, had laid
before the said Assembly certain matters, which in compliance
Avith resolution of Classis, were to be proposed to it, as follows:

1. That the Siecken-Troosters, located at forts where there
are children, ought to be obligated to keep school; provided that
they might enjoy some compensation therefor from the Company.

2. That some more ministers ought to be sent thither.

3. That no men and women should be sent thither, as mar-
ried, unless their marriage was beyond dispute or legal proofs
were exhibited. In default of such evidences, many disorders had
crept in, which were very objectionable in the place, and after-
ward

4. That the gentlemen would be pleased to grant, that the copy
of one Synodical Acta be sent, at the expense of the Company, to
the brethren in Brazil.

To this was added at the same time, the following requests,
on the strength of what Rev. Grebius had exhibited to the said
brethren who had come from Brazil with the last ships:

1. Approbation of the repeal of the previous resolution,
adopted by the XIX, regarding the abolition of the sittings of
civilians in the Classis of Brazil; and that this be announced to
the Highest Officials there, inasmuch as they have not yet been
willing to give this up.

• Rev. Eleazar Swalmius was called from Schiedam to Amsterdam in 1621, and
died on June 4, 1652.

OF THE State of ISTew York. 241

2. That a larger number of Siecken-Troosters, as well as of
ministers, be granted; as at the forts Altena, d'Avogades, de Bar-
ettes, there are none, and but one in the army. xx. 206, 207.

Written to the Brethren of Zeeland.

1648, Sept. 28th.

The Clerk also reported, that, in compliance with the resolu-
tion of Classis, he had written to the Committee in Zeeland, on
Indian Affairs, (as follows): That inasmuch as the XVII were
now assembled at Middelburg, the Rev. Brethren (of Zeeland)
would be pleased, for the good of the churches of the East Indies,
to memorialize them regarding the following matters:

1. That a goodly number of laborers for the ser^dce of the
churches of the Indies should again, and newly, be granted; in-
asmuch as, over and above the re-partition made last year by the
Messrs. Directors, there ought to be more ministers, especially
at Batavia, Tayowae, and other places; and especially, because,
since that time, six ministers have died.

2. That in the future ministers ought to be established at
Batavia; and that this Consistory, in the matter of the sending
out of the ministers, ought to have more authority and power.
For it is intolerable that the Lord General there, should arro-
gate that power exclusively to himself.

3. That the Portuguese services in the said community of
Batavia should be continued, as well as the Malay services; for
it has always been observed that this service has been attended
Avith much more fruit and edification; and it would be entirely
unreasonable that so many native Christians should be forced to
miss the food of their souls.

4. That the Diaconate should have its portion of the fines
which are imposed by the sentences of tlie courts, after the man-
ner of this country.

1648

242 Ecclesiastical Eecokds

All these matters, in accordance with the considerations of Rev.
John Rogerius, which have been handed in to the Classis, are
extensively elucidated for the said brethren of Zeelandt, and
clothed with reasons, xx. 207.

1648, Oct. 5th.

A certain letter from Rev. Backerus (was read) written in ISTew
Netherland, in which he requests to be released from his service
there by the spring, and that another pastor be then appointed to
fill his place. The matter is referred to the brethren Deputati
ad res Indicas.

A letter from the Rev. Megapolensis, pastor at Renselaers-
wyck was read, in which he informs us that he will remain there
during the present year, but intends to return to the Fatherland
next spring. He requests also that by that time another pastor
be obtained for his place.

Resolved. That Ave commit the case of this business to the Rev.
Deputati ad res Indicas, who will also speak concerning this mat-
ter with the patroons of the Colony.

XXVI. 15.— See Col. Hist. i. 308, 310, 317.

Pieter Vander Linden.*

1648, Oct. 26.

At the meeting it was considered very necessary that another
suitable person should be appointed (pre-centor) in place of Jan
Stevensen. It was learned that, for the present, no more suitable
person could be found on the Island of Manhattans to perform
the duties of Reader, etc., than Pieter Vander Linden. They
have, therefore, appointed the said Pieter Vander Linden at an
annual salary of one himdred and fifty guilders, until another
qualified person should be sent out from Holland.

* Peter Vander Linden and wife arrived at Manhattan, 1639. He was a sur-
geon and quite a prominent man in the colony, and was owner of considerable real
estate. In 1647, he sold his plantation on Manhattan Island, on the old Vraackill.
It extended along the East River 300 paces. Probably domine Benjamin Van der
Linde, 1748-17S8, was a descendant.

OF THE State of Kew York. 243

Another Translation in Dunshee, 20.

Matters about which to Memorialize the XIX.

1648, Oct. 26th.

It is laid to onr charge to advance before the XIX these fol-
lowing matters:

1. That the former resolution of the XIX, regarding the aboli-
tion of the session of civilians in the Classis of Brazil, may be
carried into effect (may be followed up) and the chief govern-
ment may be addressed.

2. That regulations may be made for the instruction of
Negroes, upon the basis projected by the Classis of Brazil.

3. To hand in to the XIX the petition of the ministers at the
Recife, and to recommend the contents of the same.

Further we are charged to write to the Classes of Alkmaar and
of Edam, to thank them in the name of the Consistory at the
Recife for the linen sent over for the benefit of the Brazilians.

XX. 208.

1648, Oct. 26th.
Rev. John Van Sauen in the Chair.

The letter of Rev. John Megapolensis, pastor in the colony of
Rentselaerswyck, dated Aug. 15th, 1648, was opened. In it he
renews the request that another might succeed in his charge, as
he could remain there no longer than the next summer. His
wife and children had already departed to the Fatherland. He
recommends the case of the widow of the Rev. Mr. Bogardus,
late pastor at the Manhattans in New Netherland in the service
of the West India Company; that the Director's be urged, in her
name, to make settlement and payment of that which the com-
pany owes her husband, that she may be supported therefrom, and
satisfy her creditors. It was resolved to communicate this letter
to the Classis.

A letter was also read from Rev. John Backerus, formerly
pastor in Curacoa, and now detained at the Manhattans, because
of the death of the Rev. Mr. Bogardus requesting permission

1648

244 Ecclesiastical Eecokds

that he may administer there the ordinances of the word. He
also renewed his previous request that the Directors grant him
his dismission, and that another may be sent in his place. Since
it was also in the highest degree necessary that a Visitor of the
Sick and a schoolmaster he sent to that place, the meeting
resolved to communicate this writing to the Classis,

The objections of the XIX will be treated of in a few points,
in writing, and will be conveyed to them, and earnestly enforced
by the clerk and Rev. Mr. Lullinus. xx. 208.

1648, Nov. 2nd.
In an Order from the Council in Fort Amsterdam, respecting repairs of Fort
Orange; Domlne Megapolensls is mentioned as ttie agent and attorney of Jonao
Bronck.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 102.

DiBECTORS TO Peter Stuyvesant :

Preachers ;

Among many letters mentioned, the Directors allude to three letters from Domlne
Backeriup, dated August 7th and September 2nd and 22nd, 1&48.

The request of Domlne Backerus, made in several of his letters, has been ap-
proved as reasonable by the Classis and we were therefore obliged to grant It.
We should have been more inconvenienced by it, if we had not entertained the hope,
that perhaps the preacher from Rensselaerswyck, Domlne Megapolensls, could be
persuaded by fair offers to remain there a few years longer. We consent to it very
willingly on account of the good character given him by your Honor. It is true,
his wife has arrived here, it being the intention, that he should soon follow her
and It seems, that his presence in person is required here for the liquidation of an
estate, in which he appears to be much interested nevertheless we have held tire-
some conferences with his wife, and it seems, that she could be persuaded to return
thither to her husband, if she were assured, that she would not incur his displeasure.
After having overcome his objections we hope to induce her to consent to our plan
and we shall then consider his salary, which we expect to make satisfactory to him.
You will therefore on receipt of this letter try to persuade him, to comply with the
requirements of God's Church and his community, the more so, as it is to be feared,
that we may not be able for some time to provide this church with a minister: thl«
measure is therefore the most advisable.

We shall also look out now for a good school teacher and gather information con-
cerning the man living in Harlem, whom you propose.

Your Honor's appointment of Roeloff Jansen as Receiver-General at a yearly
■alary of four hundred and eighty florins without rations induces us to believe, that
you must have a good knowledge of his honest j': on that understanding we approve
of it herewith, although in our straightened circumstances all possible retrench-
ments should be made, for which reason we have here discharged all subaltern offi-
cers, and we believe from information received, that there too are more than enough
ofiQcers; all unnecessary oflBcers should therefore be discharged, we cannot afford to
keep them.

Although It is without precedent, that this Department has ever been godfather of
any children, having, when invited, always refused It for certain good reasons; yet
the Board grants herewith your Honor's request, expecting to be informed of the

OF THE State of New York. 245

child's name, to have it properly registered, that the Company, when in a better
financial condition, may be reminded to reciprocate this honor by a keepsake. Mean
while we shall pray to God, that He may let grow up this child, born in New Nether-
land, to His glory and to his parents' happiness. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 102, 108,
107.

Classis of Amsteedam.
Acts of the Deputies. (The Assembly of the XIX.)

Report of what is determined, in reference to ecclesiastical
matters, by the XIX,

To write to the churches of the other (four) Chambers (of the
"West India Company) that the ministers and siecken-troosters
who are needed for the churches of Brazil, and for whom they
(the other four Chambers) are responsible, should be sent.

1648, Nov. 30th.

The brethren — who were directed to memorialize the Assem-
bly of the XIX, upon those ecclesiastical points concerning which
the Olaeais of Brazil had asked our aid — reported on their com-
mission. They also read an extract from the resolution of the
Hon. XIX upon said points. It was resolved to communicate
the said extract to the Rev. Classis. In the meantime, inas-
much as it appears from the resolutions of the XIX in reference
to the increase of the number of ministers and siecken-troostera
in Brazil, that the sending of more ministers and siecken-trooe-
ters lies to the charge of the Chambers of the Meuse, West Fries-
land, and the North Quarter,* it was resolved to write to the
ministers of the respective localities, in order that they may urge
this matter upon the Messrs. Directors. Also, the last letters
sent to us, of the Classis of Brazil, of the Consistory at the Recife,
and of the ministers of the said church shall be answered. There
shall also be sent over the letter of the XIX to the chief govern-
ment there, touching the sitting of civilians, (in ecclesiastical
bodies), which havo been abolished there, by the same. xx. 209,
210.

• Amsterdam and Zeeland or Mlddleburg were the other two Chamben, making
Ave In all.

1648

246 EccLESiASTiCAii Eecokds

1648, Nov. 30th.
Rev. Eliazor Swalmius in the Chair.

It was resolved to institute all proper endeavors to procure
pastors for Loando and 'New Netherland. Also if an opportunity
occur to write to Loando. The communication from the pastor
settled there will be answered, xx. 210.

Letter from Rev. Megapolensis.

1648, Dec. 7th.

Rev. Deputati ad res Indicas read a letter from Rev. Mega-
polensis, in which he makes known the distressing condition of
the widow of Rev. Bogardus. She is burdened with a large
family, and cannot decently maintain herself. He makes request
in behalf of said widow, that the Rev. Classis will be pleased to
intercede with the worthy Directors, that the arrears of salary
which are still due her late husband, may be paid to her. He
mentions also in the same letter his intention of coming to Patria
in the spring. He asks that the Rev. Assembly will please to see
to it that another minister be sent to supply his place, v. 107,
108 ; xxvi. 20.

1648, Dec. 7th.

Letter from Rev. John Backerus.

There was also read a letter from Rev. John Backerus, pastor
in New Netherland, in which he seeks his dismission that he may
return home at once. He presents for this various reasons. To
this end, he also requests that the Rev. Assembly would be
pleased, at the earliest opportunity, to see that another pastor be
sent thither, and also a good experienced schoolmaster, whose
services are very much needed at that place, v. 108 ; xxvi. 20.

Sending Pastors to New Netherland.

All this has been referred to the Rev. Brethren ad res Indicas.
They, meantime, have informed the Rev. Assembly that there
are three pastors now needed, one for New Netherland, one for

OF THE State of 'Nbw York. 247

1648

St. Paul de Loando, and one for Muscovy. They requested the
Rev. Brethren to seek out suitable persons to be sent to these
places, xxvi. 20, 21.

1648, Dec. 28th.
Rev. Mr. Lullius in the Chair.

A letter from Rev. John Backerus, pastor at Manhattans in
l^ew Netherland, dated Sept. 22nd, 1648, was opened. In this
he urged his former request. In reporting the condition of
the church, he repeats his complaints about the great number
of inns. A letter was also read, accompanying the above, from
the elders and deacons of the same church, which also consented
to the dismissal of their present pastor. They earnestly re-
quested that an old, experienced, and godly minister might be
sent to them, lest their congregation, already in great confusion
by reason of the death of their late pastor, (Bogardus) should
dwindle away altogether. They also declare that they stand in
great need of an experienced schoolmaster, since there was an
increasing number of young persons, in order that they might
be reared under better discipline. To this end they make men-
tion of Samuel Bayart, book-keeper and teacher of French and
German at Bergen-of-Zoom, and of Daniel Samuels, also teacher
of French and German at Ilaerlem; with the understanding that
should either of these, or some one else of equal qualification,
be induced to go thither, efforts would be made to provide a
proper support for the same, in addition to the Company's sal-
ary. Resolved, that we communicate the above correspondence
to the next meeting of the Classis.

Each of the brethren was again requested to look around
earnestly for qualified preachers to be sent to 'New !N'etherland
and to Loando St. Paulo, xx. 210.

1649

248 Ecclesiastical Records

Extract from a Lease of Van Rensselaer, Jan. 14, 1649, for the
old Indian maize lands at the Catskills, rented to Jan Dirck-
sen of Bremen.

" The tenant is to read a sermon or portion of Scripture every
Sunday and High Festival to the Christians in the neighborhood,
and to sing one or more Psalms, before and after prayers, agree-
ably to the customs of the Church of Holland ".

1649, Jan. 25th.
Rev. Eliazur Swalmius in the Chair.

The brethren are still charged to look about for a qualified
person to be sent as pastor to ISTew IS[etherland. Since Loando
St. Paulo has been taken by the Portugnese, it will not be neces-
sary to trouble ourselves any longer about supplying that place.
XX. 211.

1649, March 15th.
Rev, Megapolensis.

Rev, William Grasmeer, pastor at Grafdyck, with his mother-
in-law, the vdfe of Rev. Megapolensis, were admitted, and at
once made a request; viz.: Inasmuch as his father-in-law has
more than fulfilled 1;he time of his ministrations in ISTew Nether-
land, ha\dng been there now over seven years, that the Rev.
Assembly be pleased to direct that he be honorably discharged
from service there, and that another pastor take his place.

The Rev. Deputati at res Indicas then reported on this sub-
ject. They informed the Rev. Assembly that they had con-
ferred with the Patroons of that place wdth regard to this matter,
and they had declared that they would prefer to retain him there
for some time to come.

Since, however, the letters of the Rev. Megapolensis, and the
presence now of his Avife and son-in-law manifested gTcat dis-
satisfaction; therefore it was determined that the Rev. Deputies
above mentioned shall confer still further with the Patroons,
and at the next meeting of the Classis, two weeks from to-day.

OF THE State of Kew York. 249

they shall inform the Kev. Assembly concerning this matter.
Due consideration shall then be given to it. xxvi. 33 ; v. 113,
114.

Megapolensis.

1649, Maroh 29th.

In regard to the case of Rev. Megapolensis, the Rev. Depu-
tati ad res Indicas reported, that they had conferred about his
church with the Patroons of that place. These had told them
that they would gladly have seen Rev. Megapoleneia to have re-
mained there a while longer, but having understood his disin-
clination to do so, they would not keep him there against his
will. They would permit him to come over to Patria, in order
to confer with him, and to ascertain whether he might not have
a desire therefor. At any rate they would like to confer with
him before another preacher should be sent in his place.

Meantime they would gladly see Rev. Megapolensis make
some arrangements before his departure for the continuance of
some form of service, such as the reading of some chapters of
God's Word, or some good homilies (postilla).

The Rev. Assembly having heard this report, resolved to grant
the Rev. Megapolensis his dismission, and the Rev. Deputies
aforesaid shall inform him of the same. They shall also inform
him of the good feeling that exists and the desire of the Pa-
trons. This action was announced to the Rev. Grasmeer. v. 116 ;
xsvi. 36.

1649, April 13th.
Rev. Eliazur Swalmius in the Chair.

It was resolved to answer at the earliest opportunity the let-
ters to jSTew Netherland, one from the pastor, and one from the
consistory, as al&o the communication of the Rev. John Mega-
polensis. XX. 214.

1649

250 Ecclesiastical Records

Acts of the Deputies and their Correspondence.

1649, April 26th.
Rev. Swalmius in the Chair.

The letters from New ISTetherland have been answered by
Rev. Wittenwrongel. xx. 215.

These letters are as follows: xxvi. 38, 39. The Classis of
Amsterdam to Rev. John Backeriis, ]^ew IsTetherland, April 26th,
1649.

Rev. Wise, Most Provident and Godly Brother: —

Your Reverence's communications have reached us safely.
From these we understand your great desire to be released from
your service in the church of ISTew lietherland.

We can see, indeed, that for this you have urgent and mighty
reasons. But it grieves us that we have not yet been able to find
a suitable person to succeed you, and to take charge of the ser-
vice in so demoralized a church, and we fear that we shall not
succeed very soon. The reason is, on account of the impover-
ished condition of the Company. Hence there is but little de-
sire either on the part of experienced pastors or candidates to
undertake so long a journey. We shall not neglect, however,
to use all efforts, until we suc-ceed in finding an energetic
minister.

Meanwhile we thank you for the representation of the condi-
tion of the church in your province. We shall neglect no effort
to advance her prosperity with the Hon. Directors, and we shall
take into serious consideration what has been so earnestly com-
mended to us, both in your communication, and in that of the
Rev. Consistory, viz., to search out an experienced schoolmaster
as well as pastor. The prosperity of the church is in the highest
degree dependent on the proper training of the tender youth.

These and other matters we shall present at the meeting of
the Hon. XIX, and seek to advance them with all possible Zeal.
We shall then acquaint you with the result, and also hope at

OF THE State of New Yoke. 251

that time to answer the conunimication of your Eev. Consistory
at greater length.

Closing herewith, we commend you to God and the word of
his grace. With our hearty greetings to you and the worthy
brethren of the consistory, we are and remain,
Your fellow-brethren to command,

The Deputati ad res Indicas, etc.
April 26, 1649. P. Jacobus Beth.

The Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. John Megapolensis, in jSTew
ISTetherland, April 26th, 1649. xxvi. 38.

The Peace of Christ.

Rev., Wise, Provident, Highly Learned and Godly co-laborer
and Brother in the Harvest of the Lord: —

Your Reverence's communication of July 26th, 1648, came
safely to hand. Prom this we understand that you continue
urgently to insist upon your dismission from the service at
Rensselaerswyck.

We have not omitted to recommend your case to the Hon.
Patroons, inasmuch as your time has now expired, and to request
their permission for us to look about for another pastor, to
succeed you in your place.

But although we have found that the said Patroons do not
any longer wish to render your dismissal difficult, as you vnW
have learned from their writings; nevertheless they are reluctant
to send another pastor before they have conferred with you con-
cerning the matter after your arrival here. You also know
full well that the differences existing between the Patroons and
the other partners, occasion great difficulties in this business.
Hence the Rev. Classis, having duly considered the matter, and
having imderstood from your communication, as also from the
oral statement of your mfe, that you are fully determined to
leave your service at Rensselaerswyck, is unwilling to make your
dismissal more difficult, but cheerfully grant your request; only

1649

252 Ecclesiastical Reoobds

tliej ask jou to be pleased at your departure to establish some
fixed order, that some form of worship maj be kept up, with
the reading of God's word, the singing of Psalms, the reading
of some edifying sermons, etc., so that the church do not at
once become demoralized, and the good work begun there, and
advanced by your diligence, decline.

Meantime trusting that we shall be authorized by the Patroons
to look about for another pastor, we herewith close, commend-
ing you to God and the word of his grace. "With our hearty re-
spects, we are and remain,

Your brethren to command,

April 26, 1649. The Deputati ad res Indicas, etc.

Minute of a Visit of the Directoe-General to Rev. Mr.
Backeeius, to Poebid Him to Read, oe to Allow to be
Read, Any Political "Weitings in the Chuech.

This day underwritten tlie Director-General went in person to the house of the
minister Baekerius, and there, in his capacity as Director, told the minister not to
read himself, or have read by any of the Church officers, from the pulpit or else-
where in the Church, at the request of any of the inhabitants, any writing, petition
or proposal having relation to the municipal or general government, whether gen-
eral or in particular, before and until such writing shall be signed by the Director
himself, or by the Secretary, by order of the Director and Council; but this is not to
apply to ecclesiastical affairs which are left at the full disposal of said ministert
and Consistory. Therein he shall be at liberty to order, agreeably to church ordi-
nances and the duty of a godly minister, wherein said Director General offers him
all aid and assistance as far as this concerns him as Chief Magistrate of the country.

This done in the presence of Councillor La Montague and Secretary TIenhoven,
this 8th of May, 1G49.— Col. Doce. N. Y. xlv. 114.

O'Callaghan's remark thereon: 1G49. And so fearful still were the authorltle*
that means would be found to communicate, during divine service, with the people,
that " the Director General went in person to Domine Backerus, and told him that
he ehould not be permitted, at the request of any individuals, to read from the pulpit
to the congregation, under any pretence, either by himself or any of the deacons,
any propositions whatsoever, appertaining to the police or general government, be-
fore such writings had been signed by the secretary by order of the Director, or by
the Director and Council."

These measures had the effect only of hastening the departure of the clergyman
from New Amsterdam, and of urging the opposition more strongly in their course.
The Rev. Mr. Backerus requested his dismissal shortly after. He retsrned to Hol-
land to swell the number of complaints against General Stuyvesant; and Adrlaen
van der Donok, Jacob van Couwenhoven. and Jan Evertsen Bout followed. In th«
course of the succeeding month, as agents for the coloniBtB. — O'Callaghan'B Hlitory
of N«w Nctherland, Vol. 11. 94.

OF THE State of ISTew York. 253

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies. Gideon Schaats, Schoolmaster at Beest.

1649, June 28th.

Gideon Schaats, schoolmaster at Beest,* appeared with very
good testimonial from the Classis of Bueren. He asked to go,
in the capacity of siecken-trooster to the East Indies. But in-
asmuch as, with the permission of the Classis, he had for some
time exercised himself in " proponeren " (exercises preparatory to
the ministry), and has good hope of being admitted to the prepara-
tory examination at the next Synod of South Holland, he was
informed that he was provisionally accepted by us as " Recom-
mended " ; and that in the meantime he must seek to push his
desires in the said Synod, xx. 216.

Permit to Rev. Johannes Backeeus, Minister of New Am-
sterdam, TO Resign His Office and Return to Holland.

Johannes Backerlus, minister in this city New Amsterdam, appeared before the
Council and requested his dismission, In order that he may return to Fatherland;
therefore the Honorable Director General and Council, having considered the
urgent request, cannot refuse said Backerlus his dismission; the said Director and
Council have accordingly granted him leave to depart for Fatherland.

This 6th of July, 1649.

Col. Docs. N. Y. liv. 115.

Resolution. To retain and engage Rev. Johannes Megapoleusls as minister of
the Church at New Amsterdam.

Aug. 2, 1649.

WheresB Domino Johannes Backerlus on his urgent petition, and, as he declares
with the consent of the Classis, wherein the despatches of the Honorable Directors
concur, has received from us license and dismission, in order to depart with the
flrBt ehipe for Fatherland; and In the meantime this congregation would remain
destitute of spiritual nourishment, namely the preaching of the Holy Gospel, and
the lawful participation of the Blessed Sacrament; Therefore we, the Director
and Conncil, wishing to promote as far as we are able, the honor of God. the
welfare and salvation of men, cannot consent that this congregation ought or
can remain bereft of a pastor: Wherefore, on the Instructions from the Honor-
able Lords Directors, we have resolved, as we do hereby resolve, earnestly and
urgently to solicit and entreat the Reverend Domlne Johannes Megapolensis, late
minister In Rensselaerswyck, who having obtained his dismission there. Is now
here and prepared to depart with the first ships for Fatherland, and seriously
and urgently to Inquire If he could not be induced by persuasive reasons, for
the honor of God, the advancement of his Church, and the salvation of men to
supply here the service of the Word and the adndnlBtration of the Holy Sacra-
ment. His Reverence has, as we are already informed, no weighty reasons to

* Beest, a Tillage of over twenty four hundred population. In Gelderland.

1649

254 Ecclesiastical Records

decline our Invitation. Meanwhile the extreme need of the church work impera-
tively demands, that at least one clergyman remain in this province among the
Dutch people, both for this capital and Renselaer's Colony, were it only for
administering Baptism to the children who are commonly presented here every
Sunday at the Manhattans for baptism alone, sometimes one, sometimes two,
yea even three and four together. Therefore, we excusing his reasons, cannot
accept them at this time, but do hereby resolve, if possible, to endeavor to retain
him blanda vl et quasi nolens volens, and we shall try to justify him to the best
of our ability both to the Reverend Classis and the Patroon from whom he has
already received his dismission and settlement of account. Such we resolve, to
be most necessary for the honor of God, the service of his Church, and the salva-
tion of the people.

Thus done in our Council this 2nd of August; present — The Honorable Director
General, Petrus Stuyvesant, L. van Dlncklage, H. van Dyck, La Montague, and
Brian Nuton. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 116.

Departure of Domine Backerus, and Settlement of Dominb
Megapolensis at ISTew Amsterdam.

August, 1649.

By the departure of the Rev. Mr. Backerus, New Amsterdam wa§ now without
a clergyman. The Rev. Mr. Megapolehsis having received his dismission from the
colony of Rensselaerswyck, " was about to return to Fatherland, in the first sailing
ship," and thus the Dutch colonists were to be deprived of the solacing comfort
of a Christian ministry. To prevent this misfortune, the Director requested Doctor
Megapolensis, " for the honor of God, for the increase of the church, and the
interest of men," to remain in the country for a time at least.

This invitation was at first declined. His wife had preceded him to Holland,
and he was also anxious to follow her, as his presence was necessary in that
country, for the liquidation of an estate in which he was interested. But his
stay was still urged, in pursuance to instructions from the Chamber at Amsterdam,
" if it were only for the instruction of the children, who are every Sunday pre-
sented at the Manhattans for baptism — sometimes one — sometimes two — yae,
sometimes three and four together;" Otherwise, it was apprehended that the Church
would be a long time without a minister. His objections were at length overruled,
and the Council having resolved to retain him, blanda vl, et quasi nolens, volens,"
he was installed minister of the church of New Amsterdam, at a salary of twelve
hundred guilders, or four hundred and eighty dollars, per annum.* — O'Callaghan's
History of New Netherland, Vol. 97.

Remonstrance of the People of New j^etherland to the

States General.

[See Jan. 27, 1650, and Ap. 20, 1650, and InTov. 29, 1650.]

(Abstract and Extracts.)

1649, July 28.

[This represents the condition of affairs just at the time that Domine John
Backerus left New Amsterdam for Holland, and Domine John Megapolensis left
Fort Orange and settled at New Amsterdam. We are concerned principally with
what relates to the Church history, in order to make more intelligible, or to con-
firm, the documents recently received (1898) from Amsterdam.]

* Alb. Rec. Iv., 16, 17, 23; vii., 229, 230, 251-256. Rev. Mr. Megapolensis was au-
thor of a tract on the Mohawk Indians, entitled Kort Ontwerp Van de Mahakuase
Indlanen in N. Nederlandt, haer Lant, Stature, Dracht, Manieren en Magistraten,

OF THE State of jSTew York. 255

The following reference is given concerning the discovery of the country,
page 275.

" Among all the enterprising people in the world, who search for foreign coun-
tries, navigable waters and trade, those who bear the name of Netherlanders
will very easily be able to hold their rank among the foremost, as is sufficiently
known to all those who have in any wise saluted the threshold of history. It
will, in like manner, be also, confirmed by our following Relation; for in the year
of Christ 1609, was the country, of which we now propose to speak, first found
and discovered at the expense of the General Bast India Company — though direct-
ing their aim and design elsewhere — by the ship de Halve Mane, whereof Henry
Hudson was master and factor. It was afterwards named New Netherland by
our people, and that very justly, for it was first discovered, and taken possession
of, by Netherlanders and at their expense, so that even at the present day, the
natives of the country, (who are so old as to remember the event) testify, that on
seeing the Dutch ships on their first coming here, they knew not what to make
of them, and could not comprehend, whether they came down from Heaven or
whether they were Devils. Some among them, on Its first approach, even imagined
It to be a fish, or some sea monster, so that strange rumor concerning it flew
throughout the whole country. We have heard the Indians also frequently say,
that they knew of no other world or people previous to the arrival of the Nether-
landers here. For these reasons, therefore, and on account of the similarity of
Climate, Situation and fertility, this place is rightly called New Netherland. It
Is situate along the North Coast of America, in the latitude of 38, 39, 40, 41, 42
degrees, or thereabouts. It Is bounded on the North Bast side by New England,
on the South West by Virginia; the coast trends mostly South West and North
East, and is washed by the Ocean; on the North runs the river of Canada, a
great way off in the interior; the North West side is partly still unknown ".

Then an elaborate description is given of the climate, the geography, the topog-
raphy, the soil, the forests, the fruits and vegetation, the animals, domestic and
wild, the foMi, the flsh, the reptiles, mediciual plants, the minerals, clays, etc.
pp. 275-280.

Then follows a description of the Indians, their deliberation of speech, their
Btolldity, their art of healing wounds, their clothing of skins, their currency of
wampum, the painting of their bodies, their boats, Instability of the marriage rela-
tion, the occupations of the men and women, respectively, their huts, etc.

The following Is given of their religious ideas, their idea of justice, etc., pp.
281-3.

" They are divided Into various tribes and languages. Each tribe usually dwells
together, and there is one among them who Is chief; but he does not possess
much power or distinction, except in their dances and In time of war. Some have
scarcely any knowledge of God; others very little. Nevertheless, they relate very
strange fables of the Deity. In general, they have a great dread of the Devil,
who gives them wonderful trouble; some converse freely on the subject and allow
themselves to be strangely Imposed upon by him; but their devils, they say will
not have anything to do with the Dutch. Scarcely a word is heard here of any
ghost or such like. Offerings are sometimes made to them, but with little
ceremony. They believe, also. In an Immortality of the soul; have, likewise, some
knowledge of the Sun, Moon aud Stars, many of which they even know how to
name; they are passable judges of the weather. There Is scarcely any law or
justice among them, except sometimes in war matters, and then very little. The
next of kin Is the avenger; the youngest are the most daring, who mostly do as
they like. Their weapons used to be a war club and the bow and arrow, which
they know how to use with wonderful skill. Now, those residing near, or trading
considerably with the Christians, make use of firelocks and hatchets, which they

beschreven In 't jaer 1644, of which a translation is to be found in Haz. State Pap.
I., 517. He wrote, shortly after, a religious treatise, entitled " Bxauiiuatiou and
Confession for the benefit of those who are Inclined to approach the Table of the
Lord," which he transmitted, by his wife, to the Directors in Amsterdam, for pub-
lication. It was placed in the hands of the Classis of that city to be printed. Mrs.
M. returned to her husband In the Falconer, in 1650.

1649

256 EcoLESiASTiOAL Recoeds

obtain in barter. They are excessively fond of guns; spare no expense on tbem,
and are so expert with them that, in this respect, they excell many Christians.
Their fare, or food, is poor and gross, for they drink water, having no other beverage;
they eat the flesh of all sorts of game that the country supplies: even badgers,
dogs, eagles, and similar trash, which Christians in no way regard; these they
cook and use uncleansed and undressed. Moreover, all sorts of flsh; likewise,
•nakes, frogs, and such like, which they usually cook with the offals and entrails.
They know, also, how to preserve fish and meat for the winter in order then to
cook them with Indian meal. They make their bread, but of very indifferent
quality, of maize, which they also cook whole, or broken in wooden mortars. The
women likewise perform this labor and make a pap or porridge; called by some,
Sapsls, by others, Duundare, which is their daily food; they mis this, also,
thoroughly with little beans, of different colors, raised by themselves; this Is
••teemed by them rather as a dainty, than as a dally dish ".

The writer then proceeds to state the real causes of the Decline of New Nether-
land, pages 29.5-303. He anticipated that these reasons would irritate very many.
The government of New Netherland had been very bad. It was administered
first by the West India Company In Holland; and secondly by their Director
Generals in this country.

The Plans proposed in Holland were wrong. They governed only for their own
profit, and not for the best interests of the Colony. Yet New Netherland is
superior to, and more convenient than New England. But while the Directors
sought to seize large tracts of land, they did not proceed to colonize. Yet they
Bought to control all its trade. There was much smuggling. " Meanwhile the
Christians were treated almost like Indians in the purchase of necessaries which
they cannot do without; this causes great complaint, distress and poverty ". The
merchants sell their goods at a hundred per cent advance, and petty traders stfll
further advance the cost. Liquors especially are advanced more than two hundred
per cent. This drives the people away. The Directors in this country play the
absolute master. Director Kleft boasted that he was Sovereign. Stuyvesant also
denies the right of appeal, applying to himself the maxim " The Prince is above
the law ".

Illustrations of this Arbitrary Power of the Directors, that an Opinion may be
formed of the Lion by his Paw. pp. 299-300.

" Casting our eye, then, over Director Kieft's administration, we come first to the
Church, and we shall speak, after that, of the public property, both ecclesiastical
and civil. But as this man is now dead, and some of his proceedings and acts arc
freely discussed by Jochem Pieterss Cuyter and Cornells Molyn, we shall dispose of
this point as curtly as we possibly can.

" Previous to Director Kieft's bringing the unnecessary war upon the country, his
principal aim and object were to take good care of himself, and to leave behind him
a great name, but without any expense either to himself or the Company; for he
had never yet done anything remarkable for the country by which it was improved.
With that view he considered the erection of a Church very necessary, being a
public work, the rather as it was in contemplation at that time to build a place of
worship in Renselaerswyck. Bearing this in mind, he communicated his views to
the church-masters, of whom he himself was one, who readily approved of and
praised the project. The place where it should stand was then discussed. The
Director wished, and insisted that it should be located in the Fort, where It was
erected In spite of the others. And truly, the location Is as suitable as a fifth
wheel to a coach; for, besides being small, the Fort lies on a point, which would be
of mote importance In case of population; the Church, which ought to be owned by
the people who defrayed the expense of Its construction, intercepts and turns aside
the Southeast wind from the gristmill which stands In that vicinity; and this Is also
one of the causes why a scarcity of bread prevails frequently In summer for want of

OF THE State of Xew Yoek. 257

grinding. But this Is not the sole cause; for the mill Is neglected, and having been
leaky moat of the time. It has become decayed and somewhat rotten, so that It can-
not now work with any more than two arms, and has gone on thus for all of five
years.

" But, returning to the Church from which the gristmill has for a moment diverted
us; the Director concluded, then, to have one built and on the spot which he pre-
ferred. He lacked money; and where was it to be got? It happened, about this
time, that Everardus Bogardus, the clergyman, gave in marriage a daughter, by his
first wife. The Director thought this a good time for his purpose, and set to work
after the fourth or fifth drink; and he himself setting a liberal example, let the wed-
ding guests sign whatever they were disposed to give towards the Church. Each,
then, with a light head, subscribed away at a handsome rate, one competing with
the other; and although some heartily repented it when their senses came back, they
were obliged, neverthiess, to pay; nothing could avail against It. The Church, then,
was located in the Fort, In opposition to every one's opinion. The honor and own-
ership of that work must be inferred from the inscription, which. In our opinion, is
somewhat ambiguous, and reads thus: Anno, 1642. Willem Kleft, Directeur Gen-
erael, heeft de gemeente desen temple doen bouwen. (William Kieft, Director Gen-
eral, has caused the commonalty to build this temple.) But laying that aside, the
people, nevertheless, paid for the Church.

" It is now our time to speak of the Church property, and to do the truth no vio-
lence, we are not aware that there ever has been any, or that the Church hath any
revenue, except what is given to it. Neithe.- the Company nor the Director ever
took the least pains or trouble to obtain or provide any.

" The plate has been a long time passed around for a common school which has
been built with words; for, as yet, the first stone Is not laid; some materials have
only been provided. However, the money given for the purpose hath all disap-
peared and is mostly spent, so that it falls somewhat short; and nothing permanent
has as yet been effected for this purpose.

" The Poor, who, however, are best provided for, have nothing except what is col-
lected in the Church, in addition to a few fines and voluntary offerings from the
Inhabitants; but a considerable portion of the money is in the hands of the Com-
pany, who took it, from time to time, and retained it. They have long promised to
pay interest, but notwithstanding all that is done In the matter, neither principal nor
Interest can be obtained from them.

" There is, occasionally, a fiying report of an hospital and of asylums for orphans
and for old men, etc., but as yet not a sign of an attempt, order or regulation has
been made about them. From all these, then, it is sufficiently apparent, that
scarcely any proper care or diligence has been used by the Company or its ofllcers,
for any ecclesiastical property; and, as far as can be ascertained, nothing in the
least has been done from the beginning up to the present time, but on the contrary,
every care and pains have been taken to attach minions closely, or to make new
ones, as we shall hereafter show In Its own time, and now proceed and see, what
have been the public resources of the government up to the time of our departure,
so that it may bo manifest what pains and diligence the Directors have used and
exercised in this particular ".

1649

Allusions are then again made to the many evils of Kleft's administration, and
that he had done nothing for the people except to build the Church; that Stuyvesant
had done nothing yet for the people except to repair the Church, the Remonstrance
thus proceeds:

" But 60 It was; a thousand ways were sought to shear the sheep before the wool
had grown. Thus, in regard to public works, ihere Is little dlDference between Di-
rector Kleft and Director Stuyvesant; for after the erection of the Church, the
former became negligent and Instituted personal actions against whomsoever he had
a prejudice. The latter hath had much better and more opportunities to assist the
people than his predecessor; for he ha^ no war. He differs from him also, being

1649

258 Ecclesiastical Records

more active and malignant in looking up causes of prosecution against his inno-
cent opponents, than ever his predecessor had been: " Page 303.

After these references to Kieft's conduct in civil and ecclesiastical matters, the
■veriter turns to the Council Chamber. His arbitrary character is still further ex-
hibited in this respect. His persecutions of Rev. Francis Doughty are then thus
exhibited: pages 305-6.

" At this point we are met by one Franciscus Douthy, an English clergyman here,
and one Arnoldus van Hardenbergh, a free merchant, also of this place; but as this
will probably come before your High Mightinesses in full session, in the cases in
which they appear, we shall give merely a summary of them. This clergyman,
Franciscus Douthy, came to New England at the commencement of the troubles in
England, in order to escape them, and found that he had got out of the frying pau
into the fire. He betook himself, in consequence, under the protection of the Neth-
erlanders, in order that he may, according to the Dutch reformation, enjoy freedom
of conscience, which he unexpectedly missed in New England; and the Director
granted and conveyed to him an absolute patent, with manorial privileges. He added
some families now to his settlement, in the course of one year; but the war break-
ing out, they were all driven off their lands, with the loss of some people, and the
destruction of many cattle, of almost all their houses, and whatever they had; they
returned a while after that, and having consumed more than they knew how to
obtain, they came to the Manathans, whither all the refugees at that time fled, and
Master Douthy was minister there.

" After the flame of war had died away, and peace had been concluded, in such a
manner, however, that no one had much reliance on it, some returned again to their
land. The Director would fain see this man go back to his land, in order that every-
thing should have the appearance of being arranged, but as peace was doubtful, and
Master Douthy had no means to begin with, he was not in a hurry; he went, how-
ever, sometime after, and resided there half a year, and he again removed, as it was
seized; for in the hope that some others would establish a village there, a suit was
instituted against the Minister, and carried so far, that the land was confiscated.
Master Douthy finding himself aggrieved, appealed from the judgment. The Direc-
tor answered, there was no appeal from his decision which must be final, and in con-
sequence of his remark, sentenced the Minister to be imprisoned for the space of
twenty four hours, and then pay twenty five guilders. We have always considered
this act tyrannical, and regarded it as an instance of sovereignty.

" In the beginning, also, when Director Kieft was still here, the English Clergy-
man (Doughty) requested permission to depart to the Islands or to Netherland, as
he had lived and labored a long while without proper maintenance, and as his
land was now confiscated; but he always received an unfavorable answer and was
threatened with this and that. Finally, it came to pass that he may depart on con-
dition of promising under his hand that, wherever he should go, he would not men-
tion, nor complain of the manner he was treated here in New Netherland by Direc-
tor Kieft or Stuyvesant. This the man himself declares. Mr. Dlnklagen and Com-
mander Looper, who were then members of the Council, also vouch for its truth.
If the Directors can now justify it to their own consciences, 'tis a wonder what
they will then do with such certificates; and many other things of a similar char-
acter have occurred, but very secretly."

IN WHAT MANNER NEW NETTHERLAND SHOULD BE RELIEVED.
" Although we are satisfied and fully aware, that, as respects public reforms, we
are but as children, and that your High Mightinesses are fully competent in the
case, yet we beseech you to pardon and excuse us, if we, according to our humble
conception thereof, make a few suggestions in addition to what we have already
considered, in our petition to your High Mightinesses, to be necessary.

OF THE State of ISTew York. 259

" In our opinion this country will never flourish under the Honorable Company's
government; on the contrary 'twill waste and decay in Itself, unless the Company be.
In consequence, reformed. It would, therefore, be better and more advantageous
for the country and themselves were they rid of it and the remnant of their prop-
erty transported hence.

" To speak specifically: care ought to be taken of the public property, both ecclesi-
astical and civil, which in the beginning can illy be spared or dispensed with. It is
doubtful but Divine Worship must be entirely intermitted in consequence of the
Clergyman's departure, (Backerus) and the Company's inability. There ought to be
also a Public school provided with at least two good teachers, so that the youth.
In so wild a country, where there are so many dissolute people, may, first of all, be
well instructed and indoctrinated not only in reading and writing, but also in the
knowledge and fear of the Lord. Now, the school Is kept very irregularly, by this
one or that, according to his fancy, as long as he thinks proper. There ought to be,
likewise. Asylums for aged men, for orphans, and similar institutions. The clergy-
man who now returns home, could give fuller Information on the subject. The coun-
try must also be provided with moral, honorable and intelligent rulers who are not
very indigent nor yet very covetous: A covetous ruler makes poor subjects, and the
mode in which the country is now governed, is a great afllictlon and not to be tol-
erated; for no one is unmolested nor secure in his property any longer than the
Director pleases, who is generally very prone to confiscation. And though men
act fairly and give him his due, yet it is necessary still to continue to please him.
If one would have quietness. Good population should follow good government, as
we have demonstrated, according to our ability, in our petition. And although free
passage and the fitting out of ships, were such requisites, would, at first, cause ex-
pense, yet when the result is considered, such an outlay would be immeasurably well
employed, if farmers and laborers with other people in straightened circumstances,
of whom Fatherland has plenty to spare, were by that means introduced with what
little they may have, into the country. We hope it would then prosper, especially
had It, what we consider to be the mother of population, good Privileges and Ex-
emptions, which could encourage the inhabitants; attract navigation and profitable
trade, and with pleasantness, convenience, salubrity and productiveness of the coun-
try, allure everyone hither. If a boundary were added in the protection, to what
has already been done, then with God's help everything, would, in human proba-
bility, go well, and New Netherland could be, in a short time, a brave place, able,
also, to be of service to the Netherland State, to richly repay expended outlays
and to thank her benefactors.

" High and Mighty Lords! We have taken the liberty to write this Remonstrance,
and to submit the case as we have done, through love of the truth, and because we
have felt bound to do so by our oath and conscience. It is true that all of us, either
together or individually, have not seen, heard or had a knowledge of the entire con-
tents in every particular; nevertheless it contains nothing but what some among us
well know to be true and credible. We all know the greatest part of it to be truth;
some are acquainted with the remainder of it, and have also heard it from trust-
worthy persons, and sincerely believe it to be wholly true. We hope your High
Mightinesses will pardon our presumption, and be Indulgent to our plainness of
style, composition and method. In conclusion, we commit your High Mightinesses"^
persons, deliberations and measures with your people both at home and abroad,
together with all friends of New Netherland, to the merciful guidance and protection
of the Most High, whom we supplicate to grant prosperity to your High Mighti-
nesses in time and eternity. AMKN.

Done this XXVIII July, In New Netherland, 1G49.

" (Signed) Adriaeu van der Donck, Augustyn Ilarman, Arnoldus van Harden-
bergh, Jacob van Couwenhoven, Oloff Stevens, (beside whose name Is written) " un-
der protest. Obliged to sign as to the Heer Kieft's administration ". Mlchiel Janss,
Thomas Hall, Elbert Elberts, Govert Lokermans, Hendrlck Hcndrixs Kip and Jan
Everts Bout.

" (Underneath stood)

1649

260 Ecclesiastical Recoeds '

After collating with the Original Remonstrance dated and subscribed as above,
this Is found to agree with It, at the Hague the 13th October 1649 by me.

(Signed) D. V. Schelluyne, Not. Pub.

1649."— Col. Docs. N. Y. 1. 271-318.

This whole Remonstrance was referred to a Committee. See their Digest, Jan 27,
1660.

The Petition accompanying this Remonstrance may be seen in Col. Docs. N. Y. 1.
259--261. The eleven signatures to It were probably all members of the Dutch
Church. Among other Items mentioned as causes of the low condition of the coun-
try Is: " 5th the loss of the Princess ". She carried much wealth besides Director
Kleft and Domlne Bogardus.

Synod of jSToeth Holland, at Edam.

' Art. 15. Plan for East and West India Affairs.

1649, Aug. 9 et seq.

Regarding Art. 19, (1648), concerning tte Plan about East
and West India affairs : It was learned from the Rev. Corre-
spondent to Utrecht, where the proposed Plan had not jet been
accepted, that this matter had been referred back to the several
Classes, to bring in their resolutions at the ensuing Synod. This
vnll be awaited. Meantime our correspondent who shall attend
that Synod, shall use all diligence to move the said Rev. Synod
to the acceptance of the Plan mentioned.

■ Art. 28. East and West India Affairs.

Concerning East and West India affairs: After the question
was put to the Classes what had occurred within their respective
bounds, the Rev. Deputies (delegates) from the Classis of Am-
sterdam handed over the followine; extracts from letters:

Article 30.

Rev. Backerius, minister in ISTew ISTetherland, requested, per
letter, to be released, from his office there by spring, and that an-
other be sent in his place; for the congregation there consists of
one hundred and seventy members. Besides a capable school-
master is in the highest degree necessary there.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 261

1649

Article 31.

Kev. Megapolensis, minister at Kensselaerwyck, also makes

known that lie intends to depart again for the Fatherland in the

spring. He requests that by that time another be sent in his

stead. .-...•. '

Article 32.

Extract from the Acts of the Synod of Utrecht held in Au-
gust and September, 1648. !

Eegarding the direction of the East and West India Churches:
The advices of the respective Classes, to be introduced into Synod,
are awaited.

Art. 36. Ecclesiastical Changes.

Among the Classical changes reported to Synod this year, ap-
pears the following item: Classis of Alkmaar: Eev. John Nieu-
wenhuysen of Wyck-op-zee, goes to Aelsmeer. j

Classis of Amsterdam.
Acts of the Deputies. Rev. John Megapolensis.

1649, Oct. 25th.

A letter was read from Eev. John Megapolensis in Kew aSTeth-
erland; and one from Rev. Bullans in Muscovy. These will be
laid before Classis. xx. 227.

Correspondence from America. Rev. Peter Stuyvesant, elder
in the church of iS'ew Amsterdam, to the Classis of Amsterdam,
August, 1649.

Reverend, Yer^^ Learned and Honorable Gentlemen, Beloved and
Dear Brethren in Christ:

Yery Reverend Fathers: —

My last letter, ^vl'itten at the request of the joint Consistory,
was dated on the 11th of Sept. 1648, about eleven months ago.

262 Ecclesiastical Records

The safe arrival of the ship by which it was seat, leads us to
hope, that the letter was received by you. In it we exhibited to
you the condition of the Church here, to the best of our knowl-
edge. We refer you to that, that we may not trouble you, in
your honorable and difficult, but God pleasing duties, with a twice
told tale. We can thus determine, especially, because upon his
own urgent request, our late teacher and brother in Christ,
Domine John Backer, quicker in his speach than with his pen,
is about going over (to Holland) and will relate our present con-
dition. His departure would more greatly grieve us and many
others, considering the necessity of divine service here, if the
Rev. Domine Johannis Megapolensis, late preacher in Rens-
selaer's Colony, had not set the honor of God, the service of the
Church, and the saving of human souls, above his own very im-
portant business, and his reasons for removal. But he allowed
himself to be persuaded by our urgent requests and conclusive
reasons, to take upon himself, for the present, the Church ser-
vice here. Knowing the actual needs of the Church and fearing,
in view of the poverty of the Hon. Company, that Ave might not
easily obtain another able teacher from home, we made use of as
persuasive arguments as possible, and inductive reasons, taking
great trouble to keep him here. We prayed God, that we might
succeed, for the honor of liis holy name, the advantage of his
■Church, the increase of (Christian) knowledge with salvation, and
for our mutual peace and harmony. We hope also, that he may
with God's favor, serve this feeble lukewarm, and faint hearted
congregation for a long time. But the contrary is to be feared,
unless the Rev. Classis consent to it, and also the lioble and Hon.
Directors obtain permission therefrom, and indemnification from
his former patrons, the trustees of the Colony (of Rensselaers-
vryck;) and unless he can have assurance concerning his salary,
and provision be made for sending over his wife and children.
We have thought it necessary most humbly to communicate all
this to the Rev. Classis, that the Committee on Indian Affairs
may be authorized and ordered to promote all these matters.

OF THE State of JSTew York. 263

1649

Otherwise the delay in his Reverence's removal would incon-
venience the congregation too much, and almost deprive them of
the hope of ever being again supplied with a minister of such
eloquence, eminence and fitness, in teaching and life; but all three
of these virtues with many others are very much needed in the
church here.

Besides the foregoing, we must again trouble your Reverence
Math a second request, which we have heretofore presented to you.
We need a pious and diligent schoolmaster and precentor. A
year has now passed since we were deprived of such help. By
this our young people have gone backward, even to grow wild
quae nihil agendo male agere discit. In view of the fact that a
good schoolmaster is not less needed here, than a good preacher,
as we have above explained in detail to your Reverences and to
the Hon. Directors, we rely upon your usual excellent facilities
and pious zeal for securing the one, and a favorable decision in
the other. We hope, that in a short time we shall have occasion
to thank you for both. In the meantime, we and many others
pray God for your well being, and for your growth in his holy
grace. Herewith closing, w^e commend your Reverences to God,
tlie Father, to our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the communion of
the Holy Ghost, remaining,

Very Reverend Fathers and Beloved Brethren,
Tour affectionate servant,
P. Stuyvesant.
Oct. 1649.

Rev. John Backerus.

1649, Nov. 1st.

Rev. John Backerus having come as minister from New Neth-
ei'land, exhibited his credentials to the Classis, and requested
therewith to be admitted here in this country ad publicas con-
dones, and to be aided by the Classis in securing his compensa-
tion from the West India Company. His credentials being good,
his last request was granted. As regards the former, he was re-

1649

264 Ecclesiastical Records

ferred to the Synod, in accordance with Synodical injunction.
V. 138 ; xxvi. 52.

Ministers at the Eecife.*

1649, K'ov. 9-30th.

It was resolved to renew before the Hon. Directors of the West
India Companj the request of the ministers at the Eecife, in re-
gard to an increase of their salaries; inasmuch as all things had
become dear, on account of the long continued siege; and the
ordinary salary did no longer suffice, xx. 228.

Acts of the Deputies.

1649, Dec. 27th.

A letter from Eev. Mr. Megapolensis, pastor in Xew ISTether-
land was read in which he states the reasons why he remained
iit Manhattan, although he intended to have gone to the Father-
land upon receiving his dismissal. He also requests that another
minister be sent to Rensselaerswi^ck in his stead. The brethren
resolved to wait upon the Messrs. Directors about this matter,
and to request them to confirm the Rev. Mr. Megapolensis in his
charge, and to furnish his Reverence A^-ith an honorable stipend;
also to recommend to the guardian of the Rentselaer wards, to
be pleased to send another minister to that colony. In addition
it was resolved to write to Rev. Mr. Megapolensis, and to inform
him of our full approval of his determination to remain, xx.
229. (See Col. Hist. K Y. i. 389, 431.)

The Classis to the Rev. John Megapolensis, written to ISTew Neth-
erland, Jan. 10th, 1650. xxvi. 61.

Reverend, Godly, and Highly Learned Ministerial Brother, and
co-laborer in the Work of the Lord : —

We received your communication of Aug. 18, 1649. It was
all the more pleasant to us, because it informed us, that although

* This was the lower part of Mauritzstad, the capital of Dutch Brazil. It was
built on the reef. Rev. J. T. Polhemus, afterward of Brooklyn was in Brazil 1635-54.

OF THE State of New Yokk. 265

1649

on your v:aj to the Fatherland, you did finally resolve, at the
urgent request of the General, the Council and the People, on
the Manhattan, to remain there in the service of the West India
Company: and this you did, because otherwise all 'New Nether-
land would necessarily be deprived of the pure worship of God,
on account of the departure of Rev. John Cornelisson Backer,
who is yet without charge. This was truly a sufficient reason^
and justly influenced you to remain.

We commend your excellent zeal in this matter, and have ac-
cordingly requested from the Hon. Directors of the West India
Company their approbation of your act, and a fair remuneration
for you. They have acceded to both requests. They declare that
they are willing to give you such remuneration as they have been
accustomed to give their pastors.

The bearer of this, William Vestensz of Haerlem, goes as Com-
forter of the Sick, and schoolmaster, at the request of the Hon.
Director Stuyvesant, and the church of Manhattan, and with the
approval of the Hon. Directors of the West India Company. The
said Hon. Directors also mentioned two others, so as to secure one
of them, but they have not appeared, and we do not know their
residence, else we might have corresponded with them. William
Vestensz is an excellent God fearing man. We trust that he may
be acceptable, and do good service.

It is further proper for you to know that we have conferred
with the guardians of the Renselaer children, and have requested
that they would be pleased to send another pastor in your place
to the Eenselaer colony. We have also published that the whole
church there earnestly desires this. The guardians say that they
were satisfied with your services. They wished that you had come
hither, as they Avould have been inclined to make a new contract
with you, that you might have returned thither and continued your
services there. But inasmuch as it pleased you to remain in the
service of the West India Company at Manhattan, they are in-
clined to send over another suitable person. They must now, first
ascertain, however, where the salary for a pastor is to come from,

266 Ecclesiastical Records

1649

and to that end tliej have written to their agent there. Mean-
while we shall not neglect to urge them to send a suitable person
to the Renselaer colonies by the first opportunity.

In closing we send you our friendly greetings. Please con-
vey such greetings also to the Hon. Director Stuyvesant. We
commend you to God's gracious protection, while we remain,

Your affectionate Fellow-brethren, the Committee on East and
West Indian Church Affairs. In behalf of the Classis of Am-
sterdam,

Done at Eleazar Swalminus, Pres. of the Assembly.

Amsterdam Eredericus Kesslerus, Sec. of the Deputies.

Jan. 10, 1650.

Report of Committee on the Remonstrance. Digest and
1650 Extract, Relating to the Church.

.Digest of Excesses and ISTeglect of I^ew l^etherland under the
West India Company. Exhibited, January 27th, 1650, to the
meeting of the Deputies of their High Mightinesses, and given to
the Directors. (1642-50.)

Of the Church; Ecclesiastical Property and Benevolent Institutions.

12. Contrary to the advice of the Churchmasters and the sound opinion of others,
the Church was located in the Fort, which is exceedingly small; so that the Church
occupies almost one fourth part of it; moreover shutting off the southeast wind from
the Mill; Director Kieft's will and pleasure herein must be obeyed.

13. The Church was built by a collection among the People, and the Directors will
have it the property of the Company.

14. No care or attention has hitherto been paid to secure or obtain Ecclesiastical
property, or to select anything for the purpose.

15. A plate has long been going around for a School, but the money has been di-
verted; some few materials have been bought for it, but the first stone is yet to be
laid.

16. The poor's money is mostly in the hands of the Company, who have paid
neither principal nor interest.

17. There was indeed a flying report about an orphan-house, hospital and asylum
for the aged, but it amounted to nothing.

18. The Directors have made no effort to convert to Christianity either the Indians,
or the Blacks or Slaves, owned by the Company there.

21. The unjust proceedings of the Directors against Francis Douthey the Minister,
■who, because he appealed from Kieft's unrighteous sentence, was put in prison and
obliged to pay a fine of twenty five guilders before he could be set at liberty.

34. Francis Douthey, an English Clergyman, was subjected to an utterly unjust
condition before he was allowed to depart — never to mention how illegally he had

OF THE State of N^ew York. 267

been treated in New Netherland; and because he would not execute an obligation
to tliat effect, he would not be permitted to leave.

Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 335. See also pp. 299, 300, 305-6; 311.

1650

Answer of the West India Company to the Remonstrance from New Netherland,
made to the States General; January 31st, 1650.

12. The Church was erected, for satisfactory reasons, in the fort.

13. It cost much more than eight thousand guilders whereof it cannot be proved
that the people paid eight hundred; the collection taken up by subscription, hath
realized the least.

14. We request that they declare what they understand by ecclesiastical property.

15. The Director hath not the administration of the money that was taken up on
the plate; but Jacob Couwenhoven, who is one of the petitioners, hath kept account
•of it in his quality of Churchmasters.

16. 'Tis acknowledged that the Company is indebted to the Deaconry, nine or ten
hundred guilders, according to the tenor of the obligation thereof drawn up in New
Netherland Anno 1649. The first interest thereupon will fall due Anno 1650.

17. The Company's circumstances admitted of the building neither of an hospital
nor orphan asylum, which are not very necessary there as yet.

18. Everj' one conversant with the Indians in, and around New Netherland, will be

able to say, that it is morally impossible to convert the adults to the Christian faith.

Besides, 'tis a Minister's business to apply himself to that, and the Director's duty

to assist him therein.

Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 340.

21. liespecting this Article, we refer to the sentence.

34. (Rev.) Francis Douthey being indebted to the Company about eleven hundred
guilders, petitioned, in New Netherland, for permission to depart. The Director and
Council are willing to allow him to do so, but think they ought first of all be paid;
his incapacity so to do, was the reason why he was not allowed to depart, and it
must be proved that the Director required from him any obligation under his hand.
— Col. Docs. N. Y. 1. 341.

Furtiier Extracts from the Reply to the Report of Com-
mittee on the Remonstrance.

1650.
The Director never had anything to do with the property of the church. A
subscription was entered into in Kleffs time to aid in the erection of that build-
ing, which, however, was not paid. " The Company paid the workmen." The
consistory was satisfied at the time that it should be located in the fort; but
these people considered the Company's fort not worthy the honor of a church.
It is true the new schoolhouse had not been built, but this was not the fault of
the Director, who is busy collecting materials, but of the churchmasters, who had
charge of the funds which the commonalty subscribed. In the meanwhile, a place
for ihe school had been provided and held. Other teachers keep school in hired
houses, so that the youth are furnished with the means of education, according
to the circumstances of the country. 'Tls true there is no Latin school nor
academy; those of the commonalty who require such, can look to it and supply
the funds. The deacons are accountable for what concerns the poor. They can
tell where the money is gone, and who have had It from time to time on interest.
The Director never administered these funds. Director Kleft borrowed all the
small fines and penalties imposed by the court, and placed in the poor's box.
" He opened the box with the consent of the deacons, and took the contents "
on interest. The sum was of small amount.

1650

268 Ecclesiastical Eecords

It Is true that there are no duties either on exports or imports in the latter
plantations, but the property of each inhabitant is assessed, and he is obliged to
pay according to his means. In this way he is taxed to build and support
churches and schools; to maintain preachers and schoolmasters; to erect public
buildings in cities and villages; to construct and repair all highways and bridges;

1650.

What more frivolous request could be made than that the Company should quit
the country. At its own charge that body has conveyed people and cattle thither,
erecting forts, and assisted many poor emigrants from Holland with provisions
and clothing. And now that some have " a little more than they can consume In
a day," they ungratefully wish to be relieved from the authority of their bene-
factors, even without paying them, if they could. They further demand that pro-
vision be made for the support of religion and the diffusion of education, and for
the erection of asylums and hospitals. If they be such friends to religion, educa-
tion and charity as they pretend, let them be leaders in a subscription to such
laudable undertakings, and not complain as they did when asked to contribute for
the church and school-house. " Had the Director demanded a collection for an
orphan asylum and hospital, what an outcry would not have been raised." The
vacancy created by the departure of the Rev. Mr. Backerus is filled " by a learned
and holy minister, who needs no interpreter when defending the Reformed rellgioa
against the preachers of our neighbors, the English Brownlsts."

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

1650, Jan. 31st.

The Eev. President Swalmiiis, and the clerk, reported in ref-
erence to their commission that they recommended to the Messrs.
Directors of the West India Company, William Vestens of Haer-
lem, for schoolmaster and Visitor of the Sick in New Netherland,
and that he has been accepted by the above named gentlemen,
and will be sent at the earliest opportunity.

Moreover they report that Rev. Mr. Megapolensis had taken
leave of Eensselaerswyck, and has entered the sendee of the Com-
pany in Xew ISTetherland, (ISTew Amsterdam) at the request of the
General and of the congregation there; that he desires the Di-
rectors to give him their approval, and that they should promise
to provide him with an honorable salary.

Further, that they (the Deputies) had reiterated the petition
of the ministers in regard to an increase of their salaries, and that
the Directors had agreed to give the same in charge of a commit-
tee; that this committee would proceed in a few days to the Hague

OF THE State of Xew Yoke. 269

to deliberate on the matter ^\'it]i the other committees from the
respective chambers, seeing it %vas a petition of a general nature.
Finally, (they report), that they had conferred ^vith the guard-
ians of the Rensselaer wards, and that they had requested them
to be kind enough to send another minister in place of Kev. Mr.
Megapolensis, to Rensselaerswyck. They had indeed manifested
a willingness to do this, but as they could not very well supply
the means of support, they would first write to ISTew Xetherland.
XX. 230.

DiRECTOES IN Holland to Stuyvesant : Rev.

Megapolensis Schoolmaster Sent Out: Remonstrance
FROM New Netherland :

1650

The recommendation of the Rev. Domine Megapolensis has in so far been at-
tended by us, that we have paid to his wife six hundred florins as six months
salary: as to how she has been treated by the heirs of van Renselaer on account
of his services in their district, and which he will learn from his wife, we prefer
to say nothing about it.

At your request we have engaged a schoolmaster, who is to serve also as com-
forter of the sick. He is considered as an honest and pious man and will come
over by the first chance.

Your apprehensions concerning Domine Baclkerus, the preacher, have, as you
expected, been verified. He has made common cause with the complainants, come
from your parts, silly people — at least the majority of them — who have been
badly misli-d by a few seditious persons, like Cornelius Melyn, Adrian van der
Donck and some others. These men seem to leave nothing untried, to upset every
kind of government, pretending that they suflerod under too heavy a yoke.
Wouter van Twiller confirms them in this opinion and alms at the command of the
whole North River: he admits publicly, that he does not Intend to allow any one
to navigate the river for the purpose of trade, and says, he will resist any one
coming there or to Itensselaerswyck; maintaining besides, fhat Fort Orangs is built
upon the soil of Reusselaerswyck and that therefore the Company has no right
to let houses be built or private parties trade there. He forgets, that this fort
was erected fifteen years before Rensselaerswyck was ever mentioned, that it has
been always garrisoned by the Company's men, and that a trading house has
been kept there for the account of the Company until the year lt>44. The trade In
peltries was exclusively reserved until then for the Company and it should remain
so, were the Company In the condition to keep their storehouses well provided
with the right goods: we hope that in good time we shall find means, to exclude
from this trade all these impertinent fellows; we are justified in using our right,
which this ungrateful customer, who, so to say, has sucked his welfare from the
breasts of the Company, now tries to abuse. The traders generally have already
complained to us and ask In the enclosed document to be maintained in their
trade.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 117, 119, 120.
February IG, 1650.

1650

2T0 Ecclesiastical Records

' ' ■ • 1650, March 4.

Information respecting New Netherland.

After describing ttie land, and speaking of ttie proper cattle for the locality,^
and the diflferent classes of artizans needed, with farmers, etc. (Col. Docs. N. Y.
i. 356-371.) we lind the following:

" A clergyman, comforter of the sick, or precentor, who could also act as
schoolmaster ". — Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 370.

Report of the Committee of the States General on the Affairs of New Netherland.

1650.

Provisional Order respecting the Government, Preservation and Peopling of New
Netherland:

After lengthy conferences with the Directors of the West India Company, a
Report was adopted. — See Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 387-391:

In reference to Religion.

New Netherland being at present provided with only one clergyman, orders shall
be given forthwith for the immediate calling and support of at least three preach-
ers; one to attend to Divine Service at Renselaer's Colonic; the second in and
about the city of New Amsterdam, and the third in the distant places; and the
Commonalty shall be also obliged to have the youth instructed by good school-
masters. — Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 389.

The Amsterdam Chamber made several " observations " on the said report. In
reference to Religion:

1650, April, 11:

6. Those of the Colonic of Rensselaers-Wyck must pay their own clergyman,
and are busy inquiring for a person. New Amsterdam is provided, and none is
yet required in the out-lying places. [See Way 24, 1650.] — Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 392.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Rev. David Roderen; Casp. Carpentier.

1650, March 7th.

The Consistory of Amsterdam represented that they had heard
Rev. David Roderen, formerly a candidate of the Classis, and
now dwelling at Amsterdam; and Rev. Caspanis de Carpentier,
at present, minister at Amersfoort, as ministers (candidates) for
the service of their congi-egation. They had also received the
approval of their noble magistrates, and now they requested that
the Classis would also approve the same. So be it. The Classis
having given heed unto this request, do also, in the fear of the
Lord, approve the election and calls of these two individuals, and
wish the blessing of the Lord upon the church of Amsterdam,
unto the consummation of the same. v. 143.

OF THE State of ISTew Yokk. 271

Acts of the Deputies.

Rev. Megapolensis.

1650, Mar. 7th.

The Rev. Deputies reported to the Classis of Amsterdam, that
Rev. Megapolensis, at the urgent request of the Director and peo-
ple of ISTew Ketherland, has bound himself anew to the service
of the Company, and requested the approval of his course and a
proper salary. Both requests have been granted by the Com-
pany.

They further reported that William Vestens, a schoolmaster
from TIaerlem, has been sent thither; also that they have con-
ferred with the guardians of the Renselaer children, and have
requested them to send another pastor to Rensselaerswyck in place
of Megapolensis. They were inclined to do this, but they said
that they must first write, and receive an answer thence,
xxvi. 63.

Rev. John Backerus.

1650, April 4th.

Rev. John Backerus, late pastor in Curacoa, and in Kew Neth-
erland, informs us that the Classis of Alckmaer has charged him
to present his certificate of dismissal from the churches he has
served. He requests therefore from this Classis a certificate that
he has returned from those regions in accordance with the con-
sent, and to the satisfaction of the people. He desires also a
testimonial as to the result of his examination before this Classis.

The Classis grants both these requests, and orders the secre-
tary to give him a proper testimonial. This was done. (See Col.
Docs. K Y. i. 431.) xxvi. 64.

Rev. William Grasmeer.

The Rev. Dcputati ad res Indicas represent, that Rev. William
Grasmeer, pastor at Grafdyck in the Classis of Alckmaer, being
under Classical censure, has deserted his post, without the knowl-

272 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

edge of tke Classis, and is intending to journey to New Nether-
land.

They therefore inquire, whether the Patroons of Rensselaers-
w;)^ck, present in this city, and also the church of Manhatan in
New Netherland ought not to be warned against him in that he
will arrive there without an ecclesiastical certificate? Otherwise
they may put too great confidence in him, and cause offence and
disquietude in the church there.

It is deemed proper to do this, in the name of the Classis,
through the Deputati ad res Indicas. xxvi. 64.

1650, April 4th.

The Rev. Deputati ad res Indicas represent, that William Gras-
meer, a minister in the Classis of Alkmaer, at Grafdyck, being
under censure of Classis, has left his charge without the knowl-
edge of Classis, with the intention of journeying in New Nether-
land. They ask in reference to this matter, whether the Patroons
of Rensselaer's wyck, who are here in town, and the church in
New Netherland, (at Rensselaer's wyck) ought not to be warned
against him, since he will arrive there without any ecclesiastical
endorsement. Thus they will not put too much confidence in him,
lest he cause some offence or disturbance in the church there. It
was judged to be proper thus to do. This vnll be done in the
name of the Classis by the Deputies ad res Indicas. v. 151.

Acts of the Deputies and their Correspondence.

l*he Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. Consistory of the Reformed
Church at Manhattan, in New Netherland, regarding Rev.
William Grasmeer. xxvi. 64.

Reverend, Godly, Highly Learned, Provident, Most Discreet, and
Beloved Fellow-Brethren in the Lord: —

Whereas we understand that Rev. William Grasmeer, pastor at
Grafdyck, being under censure of the Rev. Classis of Alckmaer,
has left his church, and is said to be determined to depart to New

OF THE State of IsTew York. 273

[N'etlierlaiid, without, however, being first reconciled to his wife,
and tlie aforementioned Classis, and also goes thither without our
permission: — We therefore deem it necessary to acquaint your
Eev. Body with these things, and to warn you that you do not
allow him to ofiiciate in any of the duties of the ministerial office,
if perchance he should so desire, until he shall have rendered satis-
faction to the Classis of Alckmaer, and be lawfully called to such
service. A contrary course would be in violation of the order of
the Synod, and cause great offence here.

We trust that you -VAall not show yourselves recalcitrant in this
matter. We remain. Reverend and Much Beloved Fellow-Breth-
ren_,

Your Reverences' devoted to command. In the name of the
Classis of Amsterdam, the Committee on Ecclesiastical Af-
fairs in the East and West Indies.

Eleazar Swalminus.
Eredericus Kesslerus,
Given in our Sec. of the Deputies.

Classical Meeting, Johannes Rulitius, Co-deputatus.

April 4, 1650. Philips Metzu, Elder.

The Grasmeer Case, 1650, April 11th. Rev. Frederick Kes-
lerus in the Chair.

A certain communication from this meeting, wa-itten by the or-
der of the Classis, to the consistory of Manhattan in New ISTeth-
erland, was read. Therein they are warned not to permit Rev.
William Grasmeer, pastor at Grafdyck, which belongs to the
Classis of Alckmaer, to preach or to administer any church ordi-
nance. He is intending to go there; but he is under censure of
said Classis, having left his congregation without their knowledge.

The Rev. President informed the meeting that on April 7, two

Deputies of the Classis of Alckmaer, viz. Rev. Mr. Kn\-f and

Rev. Mr. Mensevoet, had had an intendew vdih him and Rev. Mr.

Rultius, and had explained to them what had been done in their

Classis, in reference to the above mentioned William Grasmeer;
IS

274 Ecclesiastical Eecorbs

he has "been suspended from the performance of ministerial func-
tions by their Classis, in confirmation Avhereof, they furnished a
copy of said action from their Classical record; that he had also
left his congregation without the knowledge of the Classis, or
without giving any satisfaction to the same. They therefore re-
quested in the name of their Classis, as well as in the name of our
own, that timely warning be given to the consistory at Manhattan,
not to permit said Grasmeer to preach or perform any church
ordinance until he be reconciled to the Classis of Alckmaer, and
shall have given satisfaction to the same.

The Brethren Deputies from Alckmaer were also infonned that
our Classis had already taken action in this case, and our letter
to the consistory at Manhattan, was read to their Reverences.
The said Deputies were satisfied therewith, and thanked our Classis
for their vigilance, xx. 234.

1650, April 16th.

Copy of the resolution of the Rev. Classis of Alckmaer, concern-
ing Rev. William Grasmeer. xxvi. 65.

Rev. William Grasmeer: — You are hereby cited to appear im-
mediately upon receipt hereof, before our Classical Assembly, to
give reasons for the abandonment of your church, to the end that
all action in the matter henceforth, may tend to God's glory and
the best welfare of this Church. In default of your appearance,
the Classis will treat you as a deserter who abandons his church
in violation of proper order.

It is also understood that you have lightly presumed to preach,
at Koedyck, or elsewhere. This is emphatically forbidden you
until you have made satisfaction to the Classis.

Expecting that obedience which you owe to the Classis, be com-
mended to God.

In the name, and by order of all,

Nicholas Rensius,

April 16, 1650. Sec. protem of Classis.

OF THE State of New York. 275

Grasmeer's Answer. XXVI. 65.

This being immediately received, he responded: Xo one can
prove that I have abandoned my church. I can prove the con-
trary by the testimony of the church; but that I have separated
from them is known to all unprejudiced parties.

And what should I do before you? Already you show, by
forbidding me to preach, what you mean to do, did I come. There-
fore I propose not to appear before you.

Do and act in such a way that you may be able to vindicate
yourselves before God and unprejudiced parties. Farewell.

William Grasmeer, Pastor.

Rev. Casp. de Carpentier.

1650, April 19th.

Rev. Casparus Cai*pentier,* who has been called and installed
as a minister in the Church of Amsterdam, having shown proper
and excellent certificates as to doctrine and life, both from the
Classis, and from the church of Amersfoort, was also welcomed,
congratulated and accepted as a member of our Classis. v. 152.

Directors to Stuyvesant : Result of the Remoiststrance
[of July 28, 1649] from Xew Xethebland : Rev. Mega-
poLENSis' Tract on Confession: Schoolmaster

1650, April 20th.
Honorable, Worthy, Pious, Faithful.

Our last letters were of the IGth of February and 24th of March; in the former
we told you, how the Deputies, who had come here from New Netherland, by all
imaj^inablo means, many of which were to work indirectly, had known to give
to llieir propositions such an appearance, that a number of mature minds have
been deceived. Their undertaking then, assuming a look of danger for your repu-

♦ Casparus de Carpentier was called from the church of Amersfoort to be one
of the collegiate ministers of the church of Amsterdam on April 17th 1650, being
the 48th minister called to that church. He died on May 12, 1667. He wa3|
probably the father of Rev. Casparus Carpentier, mentioned In a letter of Mega-
polcnsis and Drisius, Aug. 5, 1657, who settled at New Amstel, Del. He Is again
referred to in a letter of Oct. 10, 1688. This Carpentier was a brother-in-law of
Jean Paul Jacques, Commandant at Fort Casimir Delaware. See Doc. Hist. N. Y.
iii. 69-72, 4to ed.; Murphy's Anthology, lOSj Spottswood's Historical Sermon, New-
Castle, Del. 185'J. Dr. Spottswood says: " In 1684 there died in this town a
French clergyman. It is presumed he was one of the exiled Huguenots."

276 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

tation, the interest of the Company and especially this Department of Amsterdam,
we were compelled to communicate with the Magistrates of this city, who have
In so far countenanced our complaints, that they showed themselves inclined, to
uphold our privileges. Very iiliely a great explosion would have been the result,
if it had not been prevented by the careful management of the honorable Deputies
from their High: Might:, who have discovered means, by which they expect to.
satisfy provisionally either side. A copy of their resolves goes herewith; you
may judge by it, how much trouble we have had and how dangerous it is to
draw upon yourself the wrath of a growing community. We must suppose, that
you have trusted too much to some of these ringleaders or become too intimate
with them: now, that their ingratitude and treachery have come to light, you must
Still act with the cunning of a fox and treat them In regard to the past conform-
ably with the abovementioned resolutions, to prevent that a new mistake may not
make matters worse, than the first one did, and that we may not be troubled any
more by such contemptuous bickerings; the more so, as the Company is already
sufficiently embarrassed.

The wife of Domine Megapolensis will tell you herself, what satisfaction we
have given her at your request: We shall consult with the deputed brethren of the
Reverend Classls in regard to the printing of the Domine's manuscript on Con-
fession* and Inform you of their opinion.

The Schoolmaster,! for whom you asked, goes out with this ship: God grant,
that he may confirm the good character, which he has borne here, and continue
for a long time in the edification of the youths. — Coi. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 122, 123.

Freedoms and Exemptons Granted by the West India Com-
pany TO All Going to IsTew ]^etherland: So Ear as Re-
• LATEs to Education, Religion, etc. [See March 4, 1650.]

1650, May 24.

" The Patroons and Colonists shall also particularly endeavor to devise, In the
speediest manner, some means among themselves, whereby they will be able to
support a clergyman and schoolmaster, that the service of God and zeal for
religion may not grow cool among them, and they shall provide at first for a
Comforter of the Sick there ".

" The Company reserves for itself all great and small tithes, all waifs and
estrays, the right of establishing mints, highways and forts, declaring war and

making peace, all wildernesses, planting cities, towns, and churches, etc

saving whatever is heretofore granted to the patroons, in the matter of high,
middle, and low jurisdiction ". — Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 405.

Van Rensselaer Papers. Proceedings of the Court at
Rensselaerswyck, Page 61.

Extract from a certain document:

The son-in-law of Megapolensis is also coming over, who has
been a preacher here and has been forbidden to preach by the

* The full title of this work was " Examination and Confession for the benefit of
those, who are Inclined to approach the Lord's Table."

t Willem Verstins, [Vestensz.,] who taught school in New Amsterdam till 1655,
when he resigned to return to Holland.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 277

1650

Classis of Alckmaer. If he should try to perform some church

service in the Colony or to obtain any engagement there, then

charge Director Stichtenhorst not to engage him nor tolerate him

in the Colony. We shall write to him ourselves, about it, if the

time will allow. As we have been requested to do so by the

Deputies of the Classis of Amsterdam, we order the Director and

Council of our Colony to obey this direction implicitly. His

name is William Grasmeer. The letter was signed; Wouter van

Twiller, and addressed to Gerrit Vasterick (a member of the

Council of the Colony), who read it to us, when I wrote it down,

August 4, 1650. A. de Ilooges, Secretary.

Synod of I^orth Holland, 1650, at Alckmaer.

1650, Aug. 6 et seq.
Art. 1. Eev. John Backerus. j

Eev. John Backerus being present, made the following state-
ment: That as a minister in the West Indies, by order of the
Classis of Amsterdam he had now for a long time served the
church of 'New ISTetherland ; and that having now again returned
to the Fatherland by order of the same Classis, he requested that
the Rev. Synod would hold him as " recommended," so that he
may be promoted to the service of the Church in vacant places.
To this end he handed over various certificates, which were found
to be very praiseworthy. It was also heard in addition that the
Rev. delegates from Amsterdam had been directed to recom-
mend the said Rev. Backenis to the Rev. Synod. The said
request was therefore granted; except that being a layman (laicus)
he shall let his gifts be heard before this Assembly to-morrow
at eight o'clock. This was accordingly done the next day, and
the Rev. Assembly was content with his gifts.

Art. 18. Plan for the East and West India Affairs.
Regarding Art. 15, (1649) treating of the Plan for the East
and West India Affairs: It was learned from the report of the

;1650

278 Ecclesiastical Records

Rev. Correspondent from Utrecht, that the said Synod has con-
formed to the resolution of the Synod of South Holland, held at
Delft in the year 1648.

Art. 30. East and West India Affairs.

Regarding Art. 28, (1649), of the East and West India AfPair:
After the question was put to the Classes what had occurred
among them — the Rev. Deputies from the Classis of Amster-
dam handed in the following extracts from the Indian letters:

(Here follows thirteen pages referring exclusively to churches
in the East Indies and Brazil.)

From the Classis of Amsterdam: sent to the East Indies:

Sent to ISTew N^etherland:* Rev. John Megapolensis, of Rens-
selaerswyck in the Manhatans, William Vestersse (Yestens) of
Harlem, for siekentrooster and school-master. Come from West
JLndia; Rev. John Backerus.

Stuyvesant's Refusal to Reform the Governme^^t.

1640.
A reform in the government of New Netherland was proposed in Holland on
account of a Remonstrance sent over from New Netherland, in July, 1649. The
" Nine Men ", who had been elected to be Advisers of the Governor and Council
now urged Stuyvesant to proclaim the new Provisional Order, but he refused
for certain reasons, and at the same time shipped provisions to Curacoa, although
the supply was scanty in New Netherland. The " Nine " protested. Stuyvesant
then deprived them of the special pew in the Church, which the Cousistoi-y had
appropriated to their use. — Brodhead's N. Y. i. 517, 518; compare 506, 507, 512,,
.and 474, 4S8-9, etc.

"The following are the official extracts. Extract of the Journal
\ept by order of the Commonalty to wliich they refer in letter
to us.

4 July, 1650.

:Friends report and complain that they have not only not been recognized by
'the Director and Council during the absence of the delegates, but that contumely
and reproaches have been cast on them by the Director, from whom they were

•This should read: Changes in New Netherland; Megapolensis, of Reusselaer-
wyck, to Manhatans, etc.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 279

obliged also to listen to divers calumnies, insults and contumelious words; they
also complain that the Director was pleased on the 3rd of April last, with a view
to insult and affront the Select men, to cause the benches in their pew in the
Church to be torn up, and to take possession of it himself.

About this time the Fiscal received a settlement of his share of the confisca-
tions, and being referred therewith to the Directors, he showed it to the Com-
monalty and reported also abroad, among others to OlofE Stevense and Schelluyne,
that the Director swallows everything; that he will prove him a perjured villain
and that he hath robbed the Company of fully one hundred thousand guilders. —
Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 446-7.

Copy of an extract from the Register of the resolutions of the
Select men of New Amsterdam, Manhattans, the 29th August
1650.

Honorable Gentlemen. — Whereas the High and Mighty Lords States General of
the United Netherlands, by letters delivered to the Director General hath caused
the benches in the Select men's pew in the Church, which was conferred on us
by his honor and the churchwardens, to be torn up, and took possession theteof
himself, to the derogation, derision and contumely of our Board; which, though it
concerns not us individually, but regards the Board, who represent the people,
therefore, are we necessitated under protest, to declare such derogation and af-
fronts unjustifiable and unauthorized. Done at the meeting of the Select men, in
New Amsterdam, Manhattans, New Netherland, the 29th August, 1650.

(Signed) Olof Steveusse.

Beneath was, '

By order of the Select men In New Amsterdam.

(Signed) D. van Schelluyne. — Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 448-9.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.
Request of Rev. J, Backerus.

1650, Aug. 8th.

J. Backerus, lately minister on Curacoa and Manhattan, (Man-
hatans,) in a letter, thanks the Rev. Classis for the favorable cer-
tificates granted him. He requests that the Rev. Assembly will
charge their delegates, who shall go to the next Synod, to give
favorable testimonials concerning him. The Assembly answers

fiat. V. 132.

Schoolmaster at Fort Orange.

1650.

The local atithorlties were now earnestly besought to provide the inhabitants
with a proper schoolmaster. " Perceiving how necessary such a person was to
the establishnient of a well constitiitod republic," a committee was appointed to
build a school house and to collect funds for defraying whatever expenses might
be incurred. Andries Jansz. was appointed Sept. 9, to take charge of this institu-
tion in the course of the following year, and received a present, on entering on
the discharge of his duties, of twenty dollars. — O'Callaghan's History of New
Netherland, Vol. 11. 161, 162. ;

280 Ecclesiastical Records

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

(Walraven; Backerus.)

1650, Sept. 12th.

Extract from a letter from the Island of Ciiracoa written by
the siecken-trooster, John Walraven, while at Fort Amsterdam,
July 8th, 1649.

1. He makes known that at the request of the minister, the
Rev. John Backerus, and also of the Grovernor, on account of the
departure of the said minister, (Backerus), he had been forced
to remain there, that the place might not remain altogether with-
out Christian services. But this tended evidently to his injury.
For in accordance with his instructions, received from us, he had
been ordered to jSTew Netherland in order to exercise there, at
the same time the profession of schoolmaster. This would have
been to his evident profit.

2. Since Rev. Backerus left, many children of Christians have
remained unbaptized, both of the Indians and of the jSTetherland-
ers. These were being taught by him, and by the school-master,
John Galiaert, in the Christian Religion. The parents were very
uneasy about their children remaining without baptism, and they
longed greatly for a minister.

3. Four months ago there arrived there a French minister
of the name of Charles de Rochefort, who had been settled for
five years in the Cortaeren. Having been requested so to do,
he administered Holy Baptism to several persons, both infants
and adults. The said minister had sent over a certified state-
ment of these acts written in Latin, in the letter of the said
siecken-trooster. He declared therein that upon the insistent
urging of the Hon. Governor, Lucas Rotenburg, he had baptized
on February 14, 1649, fiiteen children, Indians and Dutch.
Again, on February 20th of the same year, twelve adult persons.

OF THE State of !N'ew Yoke. 281

all blacks or negroes, after they had been reasonably well
instructed in the Christian doctrine, and who had good testimony
as to their knowledge and life. All of these received Holy Bap-
tism in the Assembly of the Believers, called together especially
for that purpose, in the manner customary in our church. The
names of all these children, as well as of the adults are given;
and also those of their parents.

4. He further says, that in the year 1648 there was such a
pestilential sickness there, that almost the entire garrison was
exterminated; also most of the brethren-in-religion; so that not
more than six or seven remained, besides some Englishmen; as
for the rest, the most of them were Lutherans.

5. He complains that poverty is constantly suffered there; and
inasmuch as the time of his engagement "v\dll expire a year from
now, he requests to be released from that place. — xx. 249, 250.

Drawn up by the Eev. Classis, and approved by the Admiralty

College, at Amsterdam, on !N'ov. 28, 1650. [See June 7,

1636.]
Form of acceptance and instruction for Siecken-Troosters and

Voorlesers (Comforters of the Sick and Readers), on Ships of

War.

"Whereas for the advancement of God's glory and the salvation
of men, it is proper and necessary that the Ships of "War should
be provided with capable and pious Siecken-Troosters: and inas-
much as ]!T. jST has offered his services in such capacity:

Therefore, the Classis of Amsterdam, after previous infomiation,
and upon the testimony of others, has inquired into the fitness
of the said person, and found this to be such, that they have in
the fear of the Lord, adjudged him qualified to perform the said
duties: Whereupon he has been accepted for the said office, by
the Estimable and Mighty Messrs. of the College of the Admiralty.
And in order that he may be known in sucli capacity by every one

1650

1660

282 Ecclesiastical Records

whom it concerns, and that he may know how he is to conduct
himself in this his office, this Letter of Instruction is given unto
him, and in compliance therewith he is ordered to maintain the
following points in all particulars.

1. He is to teach, admonish and comfort, out of God's Word,
the sick and the ill, each one as circumstances may require and
as opportunity permits,

2. On occasion, or on so-called occasion, he is to read certain
chapters from God's Word, or he may read some good sermons
from Treadels Bullundi Bethillie; or John Bulens Catechismus
Ursini; or any discussion instituted by some minister of the true
Christian Reformed Church; and to comment on the same briefly
to the people; and to begin and end all such exercise with prayer.

3. Every morning and evening to lead and serve the people,
regularly assembled, ^vith prayers.

4. To instruct diligently in j^rivate, and at every good oppor-
tunity, out of the Word of God, the minds of those ignorant in
the faith; to exhort sinners to repentance, and abandonment of
sins, and to cease only with proper representations of God's fear-
ful judgments, warning them faithfully of their danger of per-
dition. He is especially in all possible and proper ways, to
oppose cursing and swearing, and the light use of the precious
name of the Lord, as well as indecent and obscene words; also to
comfort and strengthen the little ones in the faith, or the dis-
couraged ones, as circumstances may require.

And even as the said N. jST. in compliance with these instruc-
tions, is ordered to conduct himself in this his office, without
ever arrogating to himself, under any pretext whatever, an^-thing
beyond the same, and which properly belongs to the office of a
minister: and as he on his part has voluntarily promised to regu-
late himself thereby, and to go before young and old with pious
and honorable lessons, and thus to walk worthily in this his
calling and office: Therefore are these open letters of Instruc-

OF THE State of ISTew York. 283

1660

tion given him upon his intended voyage, to strengthen him

therewith wherever it may be necessary.

Thus done at Amsterdam on

In the name and by order of the Classis of Amsterdam. — xxxix.

15, IG.

1650, Nov. 28th.

Acts of the Classis of xYlckmaer, about Eev. William Grasmeer.

Art. 46.

Upon the reading of this 46th article, the Rev. Deputati ad
res Indicas represent, that Eev. William Grasmeer, formerly
pastor at Grafdyck, has been on account of his evil and offensive
life, excommunicated by the Classis of Alckmaer. This act has
also been approved by the Eev. Synod of JSTorth Holland, lately
in session at Alckmaer. IsTevertheless he went to New iSTether-
land, and became pastor at Eensselaerswyck, where the pastorship
was vacant, notwithstanding the earnest warning concerning him,
given to the Directors and the church of said colony, by the
Patroons, through the Classis. He accomplished his object by
means of tAvo certificates. The one was given him by his elders
and deacons at Grafdyck, in which the proceedings against him
by the Classis of Alckmaer are basely railed at, and he, on the
other hand, most highly lauded; the other was granted him at
his departure by Eev. John Knyf, pastor at Alckmaer. A copy
of this was sent to the Patroon of said colony from Eensselaers-
wyck, and delivered to the aforementioned Deputies, and has
been read before this Assembly.

The brethren of the Classis are amazed at the aforesaid cer-
tificates, and grieved that so offensive a pei*son should, in such
a manner, and so hastily, be inducted into the Holy Service of
the church. It is thought proper, therefore, to announce at the
earliest moment, to the Classis of Alckmaer, what we have heard
concerning the said Grasmeer, and to transmit with it a copy of
said certificates. At the same time we request that the Eev.

1650

284 Ecclesiastical Records

Classis of Alckmaer will comiminicate to its as soon as possible
their opinion, "witli a definite statement of tliis whole matter, viz.,
especially how said Grasmeer had conducted himself in his church;
how he has treated his wife; and what is the exact cause of the
excommunication, which has taken place ; — to the end that we,
being thus armed with more power, may labor to prevent so offen-
sive a person from entering the Holy Service of the Church,
xxvi. 93.

Extracts Relating to the Church, from Secretary Yan

Tienhoven's Answer to the Remonstrance of July 28,

1649, FROM ISTew jSTetherland. [See also Jan. 27, 1650, and

Apr. 20, 1650.]

1650, ^^ov. 29.

The Directors have never had any administration of, nor concerned themselves
with ecclesiastical property; 'tis also denied and cannot be proved, that any of the
inhabitants of New Netherland have, either voluntarily nor when requested, con-
tributed or given anything for the building of an Asylum for orphans, or for the
aged. 'Tis true that the Church in the fort was built in Willem Kieffs time, and a
subscription list was signed which amounted to fl. 1800. The accounts of most of
the subscribers were debited accordingly, but they have not yet paid the money.
Meanwhile the Company disbursed the funds, so that it was not the Commonalty
(some few excepted) but the Company that paid the workmen. If the people re-
quired institutions as above stated, they must contribute towards them as is the
custom in this country; and were there Asylums for orphans and the aged there,
revenues would be necessary, not only to keep the houses in repair, but to support
the orphans and the aged people.

The Remonstrants will, if any one can, be likely to prove that money, or real or
personal property has been bestowed by will or donation, by any living person, for
such or any other public works; but there is no instance of the kind in New Nether-
land; and the charge is uttered or written through passion. W'hen the Church,
which is in the fort, was proposed to be built, the Church-Masters were content;
but it is these people who make a to-do, because they consider the Company's fort
not worthy the honor of a Church. Before the Church was erected, the grist-mill
could not work with a southeast wind, because the wind from that quarter was shut
off by the walls of the fort.

Although the new School-house, towards which the Commonalty contributed some-
thing, has not been yet built, it is not the Director, but the Church-Masters, who
have charge of the funds. The Director is busy providing materials. Meanwhile
a place has been selected for a school, of which Jan Cornelissen has charge. The
other teachers keep school in hired houses, so that the youth are not in want of
schools to the extent of the circumstances of the country. 'Tis true there is no
Latin school nor academy; if the Commonalty require such, they can apply for it
and furnish the necessary funds.

As regards the deacons' or Poor-fund, the deacons are accountable for that, and
are the persons of whom inquiry should be made as to where the money is invested
which they have, from time to time placed at interest; and as the Director never

OF THE State of Xew York. 285

had charge of It, such not being usual, the deacons, and not the Directors, are re-
sponsible for it. 'Tis, indeed, true that Director Kieft, being at a loss for money,
had a box suspended in his house; of that box the deacons had one key, and all the
small fines and penalties which were levied on court days, were deposited in It.
He opened it with the knowledge of the deacons, and took, on interest, the money,
which amounted to a handsome sum. — Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 42S-4. See also Dunshee,
21.

1650

No other internal taxes have been Imposed, up to the present time, on the Com-
monalty, except the excise already mentioned, unless the voluntary offering which
was applied two years ago to the erection of the Church, be accounted a tax, of
which Jacob Couwenhoven, also one of the Church-Masters, will have to render an
account.

In New England there Is no impost or duty on Imports or Exports, but every one
Is assessed by the local Government according to his means, and must pay to the
extent of his property and as the magistrates tax him, for

Building and repairing of Churches;

Support of Ministers;

Erection of Schools and Salary of Teachers;

The question is, are the Company or the Directors obliged to have constructed
any buildings for the people out of the duties paid by the trader In New Netheriand
on export goods, particularly as their High Mightinesses granted those duties to the
Company to facilitate garrisons, and the payment of expenses attendant thereupon,
and not for building Hospitals and Orphan Asylums, Churches and School-houses for
the people.

Francis Douthay, Adriaen van der Donck's father-in-law and an English Minister,
was granted a colonie at Mespacht, not for himself alone as Patroon, but for him
and his associates whose Agent he was, and who at the time were residing at
Rhode Island and at Cahanock and other places. Mr. Smith was one of the leaders
of these people, for said Minister had scarcely any means of himself to build a hut,
let alone to plant a colonie at his own expense. He was merely to be employed as
a clergyman by his associates who were to prepare a bouwerie for him in that colo-
nie, in return for which he should discharge the duty of preacher among them, and
live on the proceeds of the bonwerie.

Coming to live at the Manhataus during the war, he was permitted to ofllciate as
Minister for the English in and around that place, who were bound to maintain him
without either the Director or Company being liable to any charge therefor. And as
the English did not afford him a sufBcient support, two collections wore taken up
among the Dutch and English, on which he lived at the Manhataus.

The Mespacht Colonie was never confiscated; that is proved by the actual resi-
dence on it of the owners, who had an interest in It as well as Douthey; but as the
latter wished to obstruct its settlement and to permit no one to build in the colonie
unless on paying him a certain sum down for each morgon of land, and a yearly
Bum in addition in the nature of ground rent, and endeavored thus to convert it Into
a domain, against which those Interested in the Colonie, especially Mr. Smith com-
plained, the Director and Council finally concluded that the copartners should enter
on their property, and the bouwerie and lauds in the possession of Douthay be re-
served to him, so that he hath suffered no Injury or loss thereby. This I could
prove, wore it not that the documents are in New Netheriand and not here.

Francis Douthay,* the English Minister, hath never been employed by the Com-
pany, wherefore it owes him nothing; but his English congregation is bound to pay

■ (

* Rev. Francis Doughty emigrated to Massachusetts In 1637. He was driven from
that state because of his practice of infant baptism. He found refuge with the

1650

286 Ecclesiastical Records

him, as can be proved in New Netherland. The Company has advanced to the said
Minister from time to time, in goods and necessaries, to the amount of about fl. 1100.,
as the colonial account books might show; this he has not yet paid, and he com-
plains because he is unwilling to pay. I know not whether the Director hath re-
quired a promise from Douthay.

On the 2nd point they say: that provision ought to be made for ecclesiastical and
municipal property, divine service, and for an asylum for orphans and aged people.
If they are such patriots as they appear to be, let them be leaders in generous con-
tributions for such laudable objects, and not complain when the Directors requested
a collection towards the erection of a Church and School. What complaints would
there be, were the Director to demand a collection for an asylum for aged people
and orphans. Divine service will not be interrupted, by the absence of Domine
Johannes Backerus, who, however, has been there only twenty seven months. The
place is again supplied with a learned and godly clergyman, who requires no inter-
preter when defending the Reformed Religion against any minister of our neighbors,
the English Brownists.— Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 424-431.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

1651-1660.

William Grasmeer.
1651 1651, Jan. 2nd.

There was also read a communication from the Rev. Classis of
Alkmaer, regarding the case of William Grasmeer. Therein said
Classis informs us that she abides, as yet, by the censure and
deposition (deportment) of the aforesaid Grasmeer; and declares
that the certificate of the Consistory of Grafdyck was secured by
sinister means, and the said Consistory has been compelled to
make confession of guilt for the granting thereof. And as
regards the certificate by Rev. Knierus, such was obtained by a
trick, and under promise that proper satisfaction would be given
to Classis; but Grasmeer did previously deceive Rev. Knierus,
as he says, in this matter. The brethren of Classis enjoin Rev.
Deputies ad res Indicas again to warn the Patroons and the
church of Rensselaer's wyck against this reprehensible person,
and to communicate the entire circumstances of his deposition,
(deportment), and all that has occurred thus far in connection

Dutch and was the first Presbyterian minister that preached in the City of New
York. This he did from 1643-48. He was driven further south and found' refuge in
Maryland. No Presbyterian Church was organized in New York until 1717. Before
the latter date, however, companies of pious Presbyterians were settling in the city
and vicinity, and would assemble as opportunity permitted for religious worship.

OF THE State of New York. 287

1651

therewith; at the same time they must address an admonition to
Grasmeer himself, to abandon so unlawful a course, and to give
proper satisfaction (confession or reparation?) to the Rev. Synod
(Classis?) of Alkmaer, and to the Synod (of North Holland.)
And inasmuch as the Patroons of the said Wyck (village), might
be perhaps inclined to send an honest, lawful minister to New
Netherland, (Rensselaer's wyck,) who could counteract the influ-
ence of the said Grasmeer in a proper and decent fashion; there^
fore the Rev. Deputies are particularly charged to put forth all
possible endeavors to that end.

It was also resolved to write to the Classis of Alkmaer against
their summer meeting, and inform them that our Classis is dis-
pleased with the action of Rev. Knierus, in that having been
himself appointed with another minister, to warn us against
Grasmeer, he made no mention of having given any certificate.

V. 198; xxvi. 96.

1651, Jan. 20th.

Rev. Wm. Grasmere; Rev. Jacobus Beth. — Caitechism composed
by Rev. Megapolensis, Jr.

Further the Rev. Deputati ad res Indicas report: —

1. Whereas the Classis has charged them to exclude William
Grasmeer from Rensselaerswyck, by sending over a godly min-
ister, they have found such a one in the person of Rev. Jacobus
Beth, who has heretofore made request to be sent as pastor to the
East Indies:

2. That the Hon. Directors of the West India Company would
be glad to see the catechism composed by Megapolensis, Jr.,
approved by the Rev. Classis, that it may be printed and sent to
Brazil.

Answer; The Assembly has no objection to the first; but as
concerns the said catechism, the Assembly judges that it would
be more edifying to send thither instead a goodly nmnber of the
Netherland catechisms, and the Compendiums of the same,
xxvi. 97.

1651

288 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

The Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. William Grasmeer in the Col-
ony of Eensselaerswyck, Feb. 20th, 1651. xxvi. 97-99.

"Worthy Brother, William Grasmeer: —

"With great grief we have learned that jou presented yourself
for admission to the Holy Service of the church in the Colony
of RensselaerswAxk, Yoii also so far succeeded, that on the
strength of certain solicited and extorted certificates, you found
enough favor -with the church, to he accepted as their pastor.
You did not, however, pay proper attention to the communications
despatched to you, not only by the Classis, but by the Patroon
of said colony, to warn you against this step. We anticipated
such irregularity at your departure, and then admonished you
that you should not depart and desert your office, without proper
satisfaction to the Classis of Alckmaer.

On this occasion, indeed, your offence is the greater; for while
you were still under the censure of the said Classis, and being yet
unreconciled with your wife, (from whom you have been now
long separated, living even in a separate house), you have dared
to officiate in the Holy Ministry. You should first have purged
yourself of all the heavy charges which the said Classis has
against you. Moreover you have given no heed to their reiterated
citations. You have been therefore suspended by them from
the Holy Service of the church, until you render satisfaction to
the said Classis.

Also the Christian Synod (of Xorth Holland) has confirmed
your suspension. I Avill let you hear the very words of the act:
" Having considered this matter " (the Synod has) " approved the
proceedings against you by the Classis of Alckmaer, by a unani-
mous vote, namely, of all the Hon. lords, commissioners, and all
the correspondents; and is of the opinion that there has been
none other than ex officio action ".

Therefore do we now most earnestly exhort and command you
to desist from the Holy Service of the church in the colony of

or THE State of New York. 289

Rensselaerswyck, until you shall have first returned to the
Fatherland, and have purged yourself.

You must first give satisfaction to the said Classis, and secure
release from the suspension pronounced upon you, which has also
been ratified by the Synod.

We can not, and we will not, allow all ecclesiastical order to
be violated, by tolerating you in this service. Neither will the
Hon. Patroon suffer you to continue in the said ministry of his
colony.

Therefore we shall expect you cheerfully and willingly to gov-
ern yourself according to the good pleasure of the Classis of
Amsterdam. We act in this matter with the full approbation of
the Hon. Patroon of the said colony. We act thus that your
offence may not be rendered still worse. We shall not lack means,
in case of disobedience, to oppose your irregularities with vigor
and effect.

Having no other business we close. We commend you to God
and his grace, that he may direct you in such a manner, that you
may have an eye only to his honor, your own prosperity, the edi-
fication of God's Church and the preservation of her good order.

Yours affectionately,
The Committee of the Classis of Amsterdam.
Peter Wittenrongel.

Ecc. Amst. loco scriba
Matthias Meursius.

Peb. 20th, 1651.

1651, Feb. 20th.

Letter to the church and people of the colony of Rensselaerswyck,
in New Netherland. xxvi. 99-101.

Honorable, Discreet, and Godly Brethren: —

Prom your letter to the Patroon of the colony of Rensselaers-
wyck, in which you are inhabitants, we have learned how Rev.

William Grasmeer, fomierly pastor in the Westerbuyrt of Graf-
19

1651

290

Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

1651

dyck lias been honored by yon, ba^dng been invited to officiate
in the boly service of the church. This, was done on the strength
of two certificates, one from his consistory, and the other from
Eev. Johannes Knyff.

We perceive in yonr condnct, yonr zeal to establish the service
of the divine word among yon, and we rejoice in this. Indeed,
it cannot well be otherwise, than that they, who have had a
real taste of the preaching of the Holy Gospel, and the nse of
the Holy Ordinances of God, shonld retain the desire to be edi-
fied and strengthened by the same means, even by the seiwice m
their most holv faith; and yonr zeal is the more commendable
from this fact, that yon have sho.vn yonrselves willing to mam- -
tain divine worship at yonr ow expense. May the good God
grant that this zeal may increase more and more, to the advance-
ment of trne godliness and spiritual growth in yonr chnrch.

Bnt it has srieved ns sorely that yon have cast yonr eyes upon
a nerson so unworthy; for by his evil condnct he has unfitted him-
self for so hallowed a service. We heartily wish that onr warn-
ings, which we sent yon in good conscience, and only to preserve
sound order in God's Church, had been better heeded. Then
would von never have come to this, to desire such a pei-son as
vour p^astor. Yet we perceive that you have been drawn mto
your course by some persons in a sinister way, and we assure our-
selves that upon obtaining an accurate report of the circumstances
connected with this person, you will no longer tolerate hnn m yonr

Tou will see from the decisive acts of the last Synod, wlucli .^-e
herewith- append, that the said Eev. Grasmeer being grultv of
domestic quarreling, abandonment of his wife, drunkenness, and,
other ^-eat faults, has not only been suspended by the Class.s of
AlcWer from his ministry, hut also, since he has treated said
censure with contempt and disgraceful insult, and has contmued
without legal dismission from his church, that he has been de-

OF THE State of ISTew York. 291

posed from all ecclesiastical fimctions. You will also under-
stand, inasmuch as said deposition lias been approved by the Rev.
Synod, that it would be nothing else than a notorious infraction
of all lawful order, yea, an open violation of ecclesiastical dis-
cipline, should you determine to retain such a person among you
in the holy service of the church.

In regard to his certificates, with which he has shamefully
abused your confidence, be pleased to know that the certificate
of the consistory of Grafdyck was dictated by the said Grasmeer
himself. The style of this, in exaltation of himself, is so extrava-
gant, and so slanderous in reference to the entire Classis, that
it is a very shame, and is loathsome in the judgment of all fair-
minded persons.

Moreover this testimonial was granted by the said consistory
in simplicity, and upon the importunity of the said Grasmeer,
and against the order, and without the knowledge of the Rev.
Classis. Therefore also the said certificate has been rejected and
condemned by the Rev. Classis, and even the aforesaid consistory
has been declared censurable therein. They were, de facto, cited
before the Classis of Alckmaer, and severely censured. They
have also acknowledged their guilt in the giving of said certificate,
and have prayed for forgiveness.

In regard to the particular certificate of Rev. Ivnyif, for which
he has been called to account before Classis; the same Classis
declares that this was obtained from him through the false rep-
resentations of Grasmeer, and under pretended sacred promises
that he would obey the Rev. Classis in all things; that he would
first confess his guilt and render full satisfaction before his de-
parture, etc.; that the said Grasmeer deceived Rev. Knyff with
cunning, and instead of giving satisfaction to the Classis at his
departure, he loaded her with a deceitful libel, and thus departed.

These matters being duly considered by you, will enable you to
perceive that we have great reasons to urge, and which we do

1651

292 Ecclesiastical Records

with the full approbation of the Patroon of the colony of Rens-
selaerswyck, the removal from your midst of so irregular a per-
son from the holy service of the church; and we earnestly request
you herewith to separate yourselves immediately from such a
minister. For he is deposed from the right to perform any church
ministrations, and possesses no right whatever to preach God's
word among you, or to administer the sacraments. Act ye accord-
ingly, so that all things may be done decently and in order in the
house of God, that all confusion may be warded off from the
churches, and good discipline may be exercised and maintained,
in conformity to the word of God.

We had hoped also at this time to send you a devout, learned,
and godly minister, %vith the approbation and permission of the
Patroon of the colony of which you are inhabitants, but the de-
parture of the vessels has been too sudden; but we doubt not we
shall be able to do so with vessels soon following.

We earnestly request you to be satisfied with our action, and
to depend on our promise. Place the said Grasmeer one side,
and exhort him to return to the Fatherland by the first oppor-
tunity, that he may purge himself according to the Order of the
Church, and give the proper satisfaction to the oft-mentioned
Classis of Alckmaer; also that he may be released of his censure
and deposition, and discharged. Thus may he yet be authorized
to edify the chiu'ch of God, with his talents, among you or in this
land. We heartily wish this, desiring nothing but his salvation.
But so long as he is not absolved from said deposition, neither we
nor the Patroon of the colony will permit him to continue among
you in the sacred church service. We will use every means in our
power, in case he does not willingly desist, to remove him. We
will do this that God's holy name be not blasphemed, your church
demoralized, and the good order and discipline of the church be
trampled under foot.

Confidently relying upon the hope that your church will gladly

OF THE State of 'N'ew York. 293

and willingly regnlate itself according to this our writing, we close,
commending you, etc., etc.

Thus done in the name and at the request of the Eev. Classis
of Amsterdam, by the Committee on Foreign Ecclesiastical Af-
fairs.

Peter Wittenrongel, Ecc. Amstal.

Matthias Meursius, Loco Scriba.

1651, Feb. 20th.

Letter to the Rev. Consistory on the Manhatan in ISTew jSTether-

land. xxvi. 102.

Keverend, Highly Learned, Most Provident and Godly
Brethren : —

Inasmuch as the committee of the Eev. Classis of Alckmaer
has informed us that the Eev. Grasmeer has forsaken his church
at Grafdyck, contrary to all order, and without the knowledge
of said Classis; and, although under censure, on account of do-
mestic quarrels, desertion of his wife, drunkenness and other
great scandals, has proceeded to jSTew IS'etherland, without mak-
ing any proper satisfaction to the said Classis; therefore we
desire to warn you, lest so irregiilar a person be admitted to
the ministerial office in or about your region; and that diligence
should be used to cause him to return to the Fatherland and be
reconciled with the said Classis, and be relieved of his censure.

Nevertheless we have understood, to our gTcat sorrow, that
matters have been so managed, contrary to our warning, that
he has been advanced in due form to the sacred churcli service
in the colony of Eenselaerswyck. But this is a notable infrac-
tion and open violation of all church order and ecclesiastical
discipline. For Eev. William Grasmeer has been formally de-
posed from all church ministrations by the said Classis, and the
said deposition has been fully ratified by the last Synod of North
Holland, as you may see from the appended acts on the reverse

294 Ecclesiastical Eecoeds

side (of this letter). Hence we could not remain inactive; but
in order to secure the performance of everything decently and
in order, in th.e liouse of God, and to prevent all confusion, and
that good discipline, conformably to God's word, may be exer-
cised and maintained, we have been obliged- to secure the re-
moval of Eev. Grasmeer from the sacred church service, until
he return to the Fatherland and be properly released from his
deposition.

To this end we have, by order of our Classis, and with the
approval and concurrence of the Patroon, written not only to
the forementioned Grasmeer, but also to the members of the
church, and to the inhabitants of the colony of Renselaerswyck,
upon this subject. We have promised that we would send them,
by the next ships, a learned and devout minister. "We repeat
our communication to you, that it may please you, as being the
nearest, to lend us a helping hand, in order that said irregularity
may be withstood, and the good order of the church and the
custom of good discipline may remain in exercise. To this you
may contribute much, because your Kev. pastor and teacher,
(Megapolensis), is the father-in-law of said Grasmeer. We be-
lieve that he would not strengthen or nourish such irregularities.
But if herein, any action should be taken against the good ob-
jects had in view by the Synod, the Patroon would not lack
other means to oppose such confusion and disorder. But we
would rather that everji;liing were adjusted quietly. This will
be done if the said Grasmeer T^dll listen to good council, and
even yet become inclined to follow it. He ought not, indeed,
to have taken passage from here, about which we earnestly cau-
tioned him, before his case in the Qlassis had been disposed of;
but now, that a formal deposition has taken place, he is not to
be recognized, unless he first return, and place himself properly
before the Classis and Synod for justification.

And in order that, meanwhile, no one's confidence may be

OF THE State of ISTew York. 29 o

abused by the certificates wluch he has been able to produce, be
pleased to understand as regards the certificate of the consist-
ory of Grafdyck, that the same was dictated by the said Gras-
meer himself, and that in so extravagant a style of self exalta-
tion, wdth slander of the Rev. Classis, that it is a shame before
all fair minded and imjDartial men. It was also told us by the
Classis of Alckmaer, that this certificate vas granted by the
members of his consistory against the order and approbation of
the Classis, which therefore censured and condemned the said
testimonial. The consistory was also declared censurable in re-
gard thereto. The members were thereupon cited de facto be-
fore the Classis, and were severely censured. They acknowl-
edged their guilt in the matter, and prayed for forgiveness.

In regard to the particular certificate of Rev. Knyfi : this
too the Eev. Classis of Alckmaer declares to have been given
through false representations of Grasmeer; and as it ought not
to have been given, therefore, although given, it cannot stand
against the sentence of the whole Classis; which was also fully
ratified by the last Synod.

Wherefore in closing you will perceive that the said Gras-
meer must remain deposed from the ministerial office, and all
church service depending thereupon, so long as he does not give
full satisfaction to the Rev. Classis of Alckmaer. In conclusion,
we offer our services to the advancement of all things that con-
cern the sacred church service among you.

Praying that our mutual cooperation in the maintenance of
the good order and discipline of our church may increase more
and more, we commend you to God.

Thus done by order of the Rev. Classis of Amsterdam, and in
the name of all by the Committee ad res Indicas, your obedient
and affectionate brethren.

Peter Wittenwrongel, Ecc. Amstel.

loco scriba.
Matthias Meursius, Ecc. Sloterdicangs.

1651

296 Ecclesiastical Records

DlRECTOES TO StTTYVESANT.

March 21, 1651.

Honorable, Worthy, Pious, Faithful! We cannot say anything about the copies
called for by Domine Megapolensis, except that we delivered to the Reverend Classls
the manuscript of his " Examination or Confession for the benefit of those, who
are inclined to approach the Lord's Table ", that it may be printed: although we
have called upon the Reverend Brethren several times, we have as yet received no
other reply, as that they would take this matter into serious consideration. Mean-
while the Almighty has been pleased to remove Domine Kesselerus, a member of
the commission, from this vale of misery; this is likely to retard the matter some'
what, but we shall not cease to push it. This department has resolved to release
you from your private engagement with Domine Megapolensis and to charge Itself
with his yearly salary, hoping that with the Lord's blessing these lands will shortly
be in so flourishing a condition, that all the expenses for them may be paid out of
their revenues, and that in time also a part of the moneys disbursed by us may be
refunded. With this view we recommend you seriously to make all possible efforts
in collecting old debts due to the Company and the tithes from such pieces of land,
which are now subject to them; so that we may be relieved from the municipal ex-
penses.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 131, 134.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

1651, Aug. Tth.
Case of Eev. Grasmeer, now Pastor in New JSTetherland.

Attention was called to the affair of the deposition of Rev.
Grasmeer: Resolved, That the delegates who go to the Synod
shall at the reading of this Act, verbally explain how this person
has succeeded in intruding himself as pastor in New Nether-
land, in the colony of Renselaerswyck, and what certificates he
produced for that purpose. Also what has been done by this
Classis towards his ejection.

The Deputati ad res Indicas are charged to prepare the exx
tracts from the India letters, so that they may be presented in
the Synod in the usual order, xxvi. 109.

Synod of North Holland, 1651, at Haarlem.

1651, Aug. 15 et seq.
Art. 22. East and West India Affairs.
This Article refers exclusively to the East Indies and Brazil.

OF THE State of 'N'ew York. 297

Art. 27. The Case of Gra^meer.

Four persons appeared from Amsterdam, characterizing them-
selves to be good friends of Eev. William Grasmeer, a deposed
minister of Graftdyck, and who had gone to New Netherland.
See Art. 46, (1650.) After the presentation of certain argu-
ments, they requested, that the call made upon him to the sacred
ministry at Fort Orange in the Colony of Rensselaer^vyck might
take its course, and that the interdict of the Eev. Classis of Alk-
maer in that regard, made heretofore, might be relaxed and sus-
pended. The Christian Synod, having become more clearly
acquainted with the circumstances, both of this call and of the
interdict thereof, from the delegates of the respective Classes
of Amsterdam and Alkmaer, declares that the above private re-
quests can not be entertained by it, until the Rev. Classis of
Alkmaer be given proper satisfaction by Rev. Grasmeer, in con-
formity with what was resolved on in reference to his case last
year, in Article 46, at the Synod, at Alkmaer.

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies. John Bakkerus.

1651, August 28th.

Rev. John Rulitus makes known, that it was recommended
to him by the Synod, that Rev. John Bakkerus, heretofore a
minister in the West Indies, should be sent now to the East
Indies. He lives in the Hugo Waard (a lake filled in, in 1631,)
under the jurisdiction of Cud Niedorp (about seven or eight
English miles N.E. of Alkmaar), in the Classis of Alkmaar. —
XX. 286.

1651, Sept. 4th.

Rev. John Backerus having come within, announces his in-
clination of sailing as minister to the East Indies; to this end
he exhibited his testimonials, which were found to be laudable.
Whereupon the Brethren — notwithstanding the fact that the

1651

298 Ecclesiastical Records

said Backerus is an unlettered (uneducated) person, and that
the churches of East India and the Messrs. Directors would
rather see educated persons admitted to the ministry of the East
Indian Churches; nevertheless considering the very praiseworthy
testimonials of his faithful ministrations rendered in the
churches of the West Indies, and his pious conduct since his
return from Brazil; and also the earnest recommendation of the
last Synod of ISTorth Holland, and particularly the great lack of
preachers in the East Indies, and that the Messieurs Directors
now desire a person who has previously been in actual service; —
have resolved to enjoin the Deputies on Indian affairs to recom-
mend this person to the Messieurs Directors in the most suitr-
able manner, and to appoint him in preference to any others. —
V. 230.

1651, Sept. 11th.

It was resolved to present to the Chamber of Amsterdam the
person of John Bakkerus, to be sent out as a minister. At
the same time to ask how many ministers and ziecken-troosters
the Messrs. Directors might need, by writer, xx. 287.

Report from the Deputies ad res Indicas concerning what was
accomplished by them with the Assembly of the XVII,

1651, Oct. 2nd.

The Deputati ad res Indicas reported to the Assembly that
in accordance with the resolution of the Classis they had pre-
sented to the Messrs. Directors Rev. John Backerus, in order
that he might be sent as minister to the East Indies, but that
they (the Directors) had made objections to treat with him,
(Backerus,) inasmuch as they claimed not to have had time
enough to make inquiries in regard to him. They declared that
for the present they could get along ^\-ith a Comforter of the
Sick. v. 232^.

OF THE State of New Yoek. 299

Acts of the Deputies. John Bakkerus.

1651, Oct. both.

Rev. Rulitus and Rev. Meursius report that they had intro-
duced John Bakkerus to the Messrs. Directors. They had re-
ceived as reply, that they (the Directors) must make further in-
quiries about him, as they must be perfectly sure (at rest) about
the ministers who are sent out. It was therefore resolved to
lay this before the Classis in order to ascertain what shall be
further done with him. — xx. 289, 290.

Ministers for East India.

1651, ISTov. 6th.

Came within Rev. John Backerus rene\ving his request to be
sent as minister to the East Indies. Thereupon the Deputies
ad causas Indicas reported that, in accordance with the resolu-
tion of the Classis, they had presented the said person to the
Messrs. Directors. They had received for answer that these
gentlemen must have more time to make inquiries about the said
person, before they could accept him, and that therefore they
would for this time content themselves with the Comforter of
the Sick, Henry Hendricksen on the ship Despatch, (Depeche);
at the same time they asked the advice of Classis how they were
to conduct themselves in reference to the next equipment, for
which but one minister will be required. For besides the above
mentioned Rev. Backerus, and the candidate Rev. John Wess-
laer, there have presented themselves for the service of the
church in the East Indies, Rev. Tiberius a Ravesteyn and Rev.
Gualterius (Walter) Peigenina, both ministers in active service.
The former is at 't Zion in Friesland, and the latter at Ommeren
in the Betuiva (Gelderland). The (Classical) Assembly re-
solved that for the present they will first present the said Rev.
John Backerus. In case he should not be accepted they will
then recommend in the best tenns possible the candidate Rev.
John Wesslaer, since he manifests a particular inclination to

1651

300 Ecclesiastical Records

serve the churches of India. Subsequently, the furtherance of
the said ministers shall be attended to as opportunity offers. — v.
2331.

John Bakkerus.

1651, Xov. 13th.

It was resolved, in compliance with the order of Classis, to
present again the person of Rev. John Bakker to the Messrs.
Directors; and in case of refusal, to present Rev. John van
der Staart. This will be done this evening. — xx. 290.

Council Minutes Chuech Property ; Surgeons ;

Anabaptists.

Monday, the 12th of February 1652 at Fort Amsterdam, present the Director Gen-
eral, La Montagne and Brian Newton.

The Deacons of the Church request by a petition that the money due for the pur-
chased land may be set off against the Honorable Company to the amount of One
thousand eight hundred and fifty florins.

The Council decree: iJat the offset.

Domlne Johannes Megapolensis requests, that Anna Smlts, an Anabaptist, should
be restrained from using slanderous and calumniatin'g expressions against God'»
Word and his servants.

The Director General and Council direct, that Anna Smits shall appear on the
following Wednesday at the school of David Provoost, where the nine men usually
meet and that the Director and Council together with the Complainant and the
consistory shall assemble there also, to hear what the said Anna Smlts has to say
against the teachings of the complainant.

.Adrian van Tienhoven, Samuel Megapolensis and Jan de la Montague request per-
mission to erect a pew in the Church of this place, which

The General and Council resolve to take into consideration. — Col. Docs. N. Y.
xiv. 155, 156.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.
(A minister) Also for the Colony at Rensselaerswyck.

1652, Feb. 12th.

And whereas the Patroons and the congregation (community)
participant in the Colony of Rensselaerswyck would also like to
have a minister in the same Colony, and if possible a person
of some years, and who has some knowledge of medicine, the
several brethren and members of the Classis are recommended
to look about for a suitable person, — v. 235| ; xxvi. 121.

OF THE State of ^ew York. 301

Rev. William Grasmeer.

1652, Feb. 12tli.

Stood within Rev. William Grasmeer, who arrived in these
provinces from New l^etherland with the last ships. He said
that at the request of his mother, (who had come from her
own quarters in the Fatherland in order to persuade him to the
said journey,) he had made up his mind to leave his charge at
Graftdyk, with the consent of his people but as no full Classis
was going to be held there at that time, he had not been able
to obtain a proper dismission from the same, nor to take with
him a full certificate. He had therefore contented himself with
private testimonials from his church and from one of the minis-
ters of Alkmaer. Afterward some brethren, although he did
not know from what motive this had been done, and notwith-
standing they had agreed to excuse him, had gone to work to
bring objections and accusations against him before the Classis
of Amsterdam. To such an extent had this been done that
the same had been pleased to warn the Church and the Colony
of Rensselaerswyck against him; yea, after he had been accepted
in the same, as their minister, for some months, to notify that
church that they should not recognize him in the capacity of
minister, until he should have returned to the Fatherland, and
should have given proper satisfaction to the Classis of Alkmaer.

At the first writing, indeed he had not been able to make up
his mind to do this; but finally on the last communication of
this Classis, he had determined to present himself before the
Classis of Alkmaer, who had placed him under its censure. He
did not wish to say much about this censure, one way or the
other, inasmuch as there was a mutual agreement, and there was
no wish to blacken his character. He had therefore reconciled
himself with the Classis in that regard, having been relieved
from the censure by a regular Act of the said Classis; even as
he had also shown his testimonials, both of the church of Rensse-
laerswyck as well as of New Amsterdam in New Netherland,

1652

302 Ecclesiastical Recokds

which were praiseworthy. He now requests the good favor of
this Assembly, and to be recommended to the Messrs. Directors
of the TVest India Company, that he might be appointed as sec-
ond minister at the said Xew Amsterdam.

The Assembly, surprised in the highest measure at this sud-
den reconciliation in so serious and important a matter, and
aware of his well known deposition (de-portment) in the Classis
of Alkmaer, resolved to inform said Grasmeer, that this Assem-
bly takes it in e\dl part, that in the face of our warning, he al-
lowed himself to intrude into the service at Kensselaerswyck. As
regards his request, this Assembly can in no sense accede to it
until he shall have been released from deposition, (de-portment)
by the Synod of North Holland; and until it appears how mat-
ters now stand between himself and his wife. The Deputati
ad causas Indicas shall convey to the Messrs. Directors the opin-
ion (mind) of this Assembly. — v. 235^; xxvi. 120-1.

To send a Minister to !N"ew Netherland.

1652, Feb. 12th.

Whereas the Messrs. Directors of the West India Company
had infoiTaed the Deputies ad causas Indicas, that they would
like to have a second minister in the church of New Amsterdam,
in Xew Netherland, and, if possible, one who might also be able
to preach in English and whereas the meeting was informed
that there is at Leyden one Rev. Samuel Dries, (Drisius,) late
minister in England, who is said to be able to preach in both
Dutch and English; therefore the Deputies ad causas Indicas are
authorized to make inquiries about him, and to ascertain if the
said person would be inclined to accept said appointment. — v.
235i; xxvi. 120-1.

OF THE State of New York. 303

Affidavit of the Rev. Wilhelmus Grasmeee, that Cornelis
Melyn Incited the Ntack and Other Indians Against
Director Stuyvesant, etc.

To-day, the 14th day of February Anno 1652 appeared before me Hendrick Schaeff,
Notary Public, admitted by the Court of Holland and residing at Amsterdam, and
before the undersigned witnesses, the Rev. Wilhelmus Grasmeer, lately a minister
of the Gospel in New Netherland, whence he returned last November in the ship
" Hoff van Cleoff "; who being in this city, deposes and says, at the request of the
Directors of the Privileged West India Company, that a long time after Cornells
Melyn, a freeman of jNew Netherland, whom witness knows well, had arrived in
New Netherland in the ship " Nieu Nederlantsche Fortuyn ", on her last voyage, he,
witness, had heard the Manhattans Indians of New Netherland, living at Nayack,
a place on Long Island directly opposite Staten Island, frequently say, that the said
Cornells Mclyn had made them believe and declared to them, Director Petrus Stuy-
vesant would, as soon as he had built a wall around Fort Amsterdam, come to kill
them, namely the savages, whereupon the said savages fled and came armed to
Gravesend, which belongs under the jurisdiction of the aforesaid Company; etc. etc.
— Col. Docs. N. Y. siv. 160.

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

1652, Feb. 26tli.
Eev. John Riditiiis in the Chair.

Eev. Samuel Driesch, (Drisius,) formerly pastor in England,
but educated bv German parents, and in the German tongue,
appeared and declared his readiness to be employed as minister
in Kew jSTetherland. And inasmuch as the Messrs. Directors
have greatly desired a minister who besides preaching in Dutch,
could also preach in English, it was determined to make trial
next Monday how they like his German (Dutch?) pronunciation.
After ascertaining the facts they will further negotiate -^-ith
his Reverence. — xx. 291.

1652, March 11th.

Rev. Matthias Meursius in the Chair.

In accordance with previous resolution, trial was made last
Monday of the gifts, bestowed by God, upon Rev. Samuel
Driesch (Drisius,) for preaching in Dutch. These were found
not only sufficient, but also very agreeable and edifying, and to
the great satisfaction of the brethren. Therefore his Reverence

1652

304 Ecclesiastical Records

is judged to be a right desirable person to serve the church of
God in New l^etherland. For this he has also declared his "will-
ingness. As two vessels are about to depart, it is found neces-
sary to call a meeting of Classis for next Monday, March 18th.
— XX. 293.

1652, March 18th.

The Deputati ad causas Indicas make known to the Assembly
several matters: xxxvi. 122,

1. That Samuel Dries (Drisius) had appeared before them,
and had informed them of his inclination to serve the church of
ISTew Amsterdam in K^ew ISTetherland; that he had also given
such proof of his ability, and of his acquaintance with the Dutch
language, that all the brethren were fully satisfied therewith.

2. That they have (notified) the Hon. Directors of the East
India Company on certain matters. (These sixteen lines omitted).

3. That there had also been before them a certain Rev. John
Olx, candidate in the Classis of Hoorn, who has offered his ser-
vices as pastor in the colony of Renselaerwyck in l!^ew N^ether-
land; but inasmuch as there are certain evil reports concerning
him, they refer his case to the Classis. Meanwhile they had
resolved to make inquiries concerning him. They herewith pre-
sented what information they had received on the matter from
the Classis of Hoorn, in the shape of extracts from their pro-
ceedings, from time to time, concerning the case of said John
Olx. Erom these it appeared that he had not only conducted
himself offensively at Leyden; and had been a member of the
church only six months before he was preparatorily examined
in the Ommelanden, (neighborhood) ; but also after he had been
accepted, as " Recommended ", by the Classis of Hoorn, he had
occasioned such scandal by his manner of life, in the church of
Hoorn, that he had been suspended by the same, as well as by
the Classis, for a time, and declared ineligible to the ministerial
office. ISTevertheless, on the 4th of December, 1651, he had
been released from his censure, and restored to his former
position.

OF THE State of jSTew York. 305

The Assembly resolved, primarily, to consider these two sub-
jects, in their respective order.

As regards the first: Since Rev. Samuel Dries (Drisius), was
at the door, it was resolved to admit him. He informed the As-
sembly of his inclination for the said journey, and presented a
commendatory testimonial of the entire consistory of the Eng-
lish church in this city, (Amsterdam.) It relates both to his
Kfe and church services in England, speaking highly of them.
With this the brethren were fully satisfied, and the Deputies
are charged to negotiate with the Hon. Directors, and to pro-
mote the said person as speedily as possible.

As regards the second: (Nothing is given. It probably re-
lated to the notification of the West India Company:)

And as regards the third: There also now entered, the
said Rev. John Olx, candidate in the Classis of Hoorn. He pre-
sented a Classical testimonial of his examination in the West
Ommeland, (neighborhood), and one from the Rev. Roylandus,
secretary of the Classis of Hoorn. He requested the favor of
this Assembly to be sent as pastor to the colony of Rense-
laerswyck.

The Assembly, taking into consideration his former offensive
deportment, for which he was brought under severe censure,
both by the church of Hoorn and the Classis, as mentioned
above; and also that the testimonials which he exhibits ooncernN
ing his present deportment are very sober and meagre : there-
fore it is resolved to reject him, and to tell him roundly, that
the Assembly has no satisfaction in him, and can, at the present,

give him no hope that they will advance him, according to his
request.

Rev. John Episcopius.

And since it has also been mentioned that there is at Eraneker,

a very able student. Rev. John Episcopius of Campen, of whom

the chief professor, Rev. John Cloppenburg speaks very highly;

and inasmuch as hope is given concerning him, that he might

1652

306 Ecclesiastical Records

be induced to this journey; therefore the Assembly authorizes
the Deputati ad causas Indicas to recommend him, in case there
be no other material, to the Patroon and the Co-partners of the
colony of Eenselaerswyck. In case they take pleasure therein,
the Deputati shall summon him from Franeker, against the next
ordinary meeting of the Classis, there to exhibit his testimonials,
and to have himself in readiness, if possible, for his examina-
tion at that time; for the next departure of the vessels is now
near at hand.

Rev. Samuel Dries. William Grasmeer.

The Deputati ad causas Indicas report, that the said Rev.
Samuel Dries, on the recommendation of the Classis, has been
accepted by the Hon. Directors of the West India Company as
second pastor at Xew Amsterdam in iSTew ISTetherland.

That they had also promised to heed the warning of the Clas-
sis against Rev. William Grasmeer. — xxvi. 122-125 ; v. 236-237.

William Yestens.

1652, April 2nd.

Rev. Wittenwrongel read a certain letter from William Yes-
tens, Comforter of the Sick at ISTew Amsterdam, in which he re-
quests compensation for his office as sexton, which he exercises
there; and that this may be recommended to the Hon. Directors
of the West India Company.

Resolved, To charge the Deputati ad res Indicas with the ad-
justment of this matter.

The Deputati ad res Indicas also announce that they have
presented Rev. Episcopius to the Patroons of RenselaersA\'yck, to
be sent hither as pastor. The said Patroons desire first to con-
fer with him concerning the salary contract.

Resolved That after the making of the contract the Rev. Depu-
ties shall confer mth them, and act pro re nata; and that a
meeting of the Classis shall be called. The Rev. President, Scri-
verius, shall examine him. — xxvi. 122.

OF THE State of JSTew York. 307

DiREOTOES TO Stuyvesant ; IvTew Amsterdam In-
corporated ; Eevs, Drisius and Grasmeer.

1652

1652, 4th April.

We also agree with your proposition to establish there (New Amsterdam) a
pablic school and believe a beginning might be made with one Bchoolmaster*
(hypodldasculum), who could be engaged at a yearly salary of two hundred to two
hundred and fifty guilders. We recommend for this position Jan de la Montagnie,*
whom we have provisionally appointed to it and you may use the building of the
City Tavern, if you find it suitable.

At your urgent request for another preacher, whom you desire, if possible, to
preach in the English language, we have made every effort; and at last, as If
sent by the Lord, Domine Samuel Dries, a bachelor of about forty years, haa
made his appearance, who on account of the perturbances in England, where he
had been preaching, being born of Dutch parents, has retreated from there. He
has the reputation of being a very pious man and possessed of great gifts; is
able to preach in both languages, English and Dutch, and if necessary even in
French. He Is said to be of a very peaceful disposition and agreeable conversa-
tion, so that we are confident, the community will be pleased with him and that
he will be a great instrument for the propagating of God's hold word and glory;
also a fit assistant to the old gentleman, Domine Megapolensis. We have allowed
him a salary of one hundred florins per month, and two hundred and fifty florins
a year for subsistence; and as he is unmarried, we have thought it might not be
inconvenient, if he boarded with Johan de la Montagnie; but we do not wish to
press such an arrangement upon either, and propose it only from pure affection.

As you now will have learned, that we do our very best to promote the spiritual
and temporal welfare of New Netherland, we urge you most earnestly to use
all proper and suitable measures in endeavoring to And means for defraying a
part of all these extraordinary expenses: we think the community, whom we try
to accommodate in everything, should make an effort to assist their ministers and
supply their wants; for if everything were to remain upon our shoulders, we might
at last find the burden too heavy.

Upon your recommendation we had an eye upon Domine Grasmeer, but found
his affairs with the Reverend Synod so far from being settled, that he cannot sail
this year: it is true, the charges against him have been satisfactorily disposed of
by the Classle of Alckmaer; but the Synod had to approve of this decision, and
it will not sit until next August: then the time to sail this year will have passed;
the good man is much inconvenienced by it, but it Is considered best for him,
on all sides, that he should submit la everything to the ordinances of the Church
of this country; and as God is a God of order, we doubt not that he will take
care of him and all pious people. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 165, 169, 173, 174.

The following reminiscences. Illustrative of things as they were, are deemed
worthy of insertion. The quaint and elliptical language in which the latter Is
given, is characteristic of the author, Judge Benson. In his memoir, read before
the New York Historical Society in 1816, speaking of John De La Montague,
ordinarily pronounced, Jan Montague, sexton of the old Dutch church in Garden
street, he says: " I saw him at the house of my parents; I In my earliest youth,
he approaching to fourscore. He was on his way to collect the Domlne's gelt;
for the Dutch always took care the stipend to the minister should be competent,
that so he never might be straitened ' to desire a gift.' He told me his father and
grandfather before him (the names of all three Individuals may be found in the
old Directories), the latter probably the same as mentioned in the records, ' Jan
De La Montague, Schoolmaster, with two hundred and fifty guilders salary,' had

* The City Tavern occupied what is now 71, 73 Pearl st. For view, see Valentine's
Manual, 1852, 378, 403,

1659

308 Ecclesiastical Records

been the sexton of the congregation; so that, as I have it from the relation of
others, the successive incumbents, having been as well of the same Christian as
surname, the name had, as it were, become the name of the office, like Der,
Keyser, the Caesar, the Emperor; and, accordingly, when the English, having
built a church, had also a sexton, the Dutch children, and not Impossible some
adults, called him, ' De Engelishe Jan Montague.' He told me his grandfather
was the sexton when the church was within the fort. On his (the third Jan's)
death, the Consistory appointed his son Jan, who remained sexton till the dis-
persion of the congregation on the invasion of the city, 1776." — Dunshee's Hist,
of School, 24.

1652, April 4.

Supplies of ammunition were sent out for distribution " at a decent price " to
the inhabitants; the establishment of a public school was assented to, and the
city tavern was to be appropriated to a school-house " if the same were prac-
ticable; " the Rev. Samuel Drisius, a clergyman of piety and parts, qualified to
preach in English, French and Dutch, was sent out to assist " that worthy old
servant, the Rev. Megapolensis."'

Domine Drisius, (or Dries,) was at this time about forty years of age, and
unmarried. He had sojourned some time in England, which country he had now
quitted, in consequence of its disturbed state. His salary was fixed at one
thousand four hundred and fifty guilders, or five hundred and eighty dollars. He
subsequently married Lysbeth Juriaensen, (daughter of skipper Juriaen Andriessen
and Jannetin Jans,) widow of Isaac Greveraet. " Elisabeth Drisius," and " Mother
Drisius," are both mentioned in a tax list of the city of New York for 1677. —
O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol. ii. 191.

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

1652, April 15th.
Hev. Herman Lanoyzius in the Chair.

Rev. John Episcopius, who, mth the approval of the Hon.
Patroons and Co-Directors, had been requested to fill the pastorate
of Renselaerswyck, reported himself. He said that, in view of
the dubious condition of affairs between England and this coun-
try, (Holland), his Reverence, at the instance of his friends,
would pray to be excused from said undertaking.

Also, inasmuch as good testimonials have been presented con-
cerning Gideon Schaets, schoolmaster at Beest and a German
clerk, who has fulfilled the order of the Synod, and declared his
mllingness to accept the call from Renselaerswyck; therefore it
was resolved to introduce him to the Rev. Classis. The Classis
has given permission to treat with him concerning the said call.
This he has accepted in the fear of the Lord. He was then im-
mediately examined by the Classis, and has been sent thither
with the call and proper credentials. — xx. 295.

OF THE State of 'N:ew Yokk. 30 'J

Rev. Gideon Schaats.

1652, May 6tli.

The Rev. Deputati ad res Indicas having also "been ordered
to look about for a fit person to be sent to Eensselaerswyck, did
propose Rev. Gideon Schaats, schoolmaster at Beest, and Candi-
date in Sacred Theology. He appeared before the Classis, and
after he had exhibited credentials both from the Classis and
from the church, made a short exposition (sermon) on Matt.
11:28, which so pleased the Assembly that it was resolved to
proceed to his examination. This was conducted by the Rev.
President. Therein he gave sufficient satisfaction to the Rev.
Assembly, to be sent as minister to Rensselaerswyck. Accord-
ingly he was ordained by the President to the ministry of God,
with the laying on of hands. He also signed the acts of the
Formulae of Concord in the faith. — v. 241 ; xxvi. 126.

The Rev. Gideon Schaets' Contract.

1652, May 8.

This gentleman, tlje second clergyman in Albany, was born in 1G07. He was
originally engaged as minister of the Colonie of Rensselaerswyck, but in 1657 he
was appointed, " at the request of the inhabitants of Fort Orange and Beverwyck,"
minister of the latter place, at a salary of twelve hundred guilders, to be collected
for the greatest part from the inhabitants." The following is a copy of the con-
tract under which he first came to this country: —

We, Johan van Rensselaer Patroou and Co-director of the Colony of Rensselaers-
wyck in New Netherland, having seen and examined the Actes granted by the
Venerable Classis of Amsterdam to Domine Gideon Schaets, so have we invited
and accepted the said Gideon Schaets as preacher in our aforesaid Colonie, there
to perform Divine Service in quality aforesaid: —

To use all Christian zeal there to bring up both the Heathen and their children
in the Christian Religion.

To teach all the Catechism there, and instruct the People in the Holy Scriptures,
and to pay attention to the office of Schoolmaster for old and young.

And further, to do everything fitting and becoming a public, honest and Holy
Teacher, for the advancement of Divine service and church exercise among the
young and old.

And, in case his Reverence should take any of the Heathen children there to
board and to educate, he shall be indemnified therefor as the Commissioners there
shall think proper.

And he is accepted and engaged for the period of three years, commencing when
his Rcverenci? shall have arrived thither in the Colonic Rensselaerswyck, in the
ship the Flower of Geider, his passage and board being free; and he shall enjoy
for his salary, yearly, the sum of eight hundred guilders, which shall be paid to
his Reverence there through the Patroon's and Co-directors' Commissioners; and
in case of prolongation, the salary and allowance shall be Increased in such manner
as the parties there shall mutually agree upon.

1652

310 Ecclesiastical Records

And as a donation, and in confirmation of liis reciprocal engagement, one hundred
guilders are now presented to the Domine.

And in addition, the sum of three hundred guilders to be deducted from the first
earned wages in the Colonie, which moneys he hereby doth acknowledge to have
received, acquitting thereof the Patroon and Co-directors.

Finally, should the Domine require any money to the amount of one hundred
guilders to be paid yearly here, and to be deducted there, the said payment, on
advice from the Commissaries there, shall be made here to the order of the-
aforesaid Domine.

Whereupon, the call, acceptance, and agreement are concluded, each promising
on his side with God's help to observe and follow the same, which each has
promised, and in testimony thereof have both signed this. In Amsterdam, this
eighth of May XVI hundred two and fifty. Was subscribed, Johah van Rensselaer,
Toussaint Mussart, for the Co-directors; Gideon Schaets, called minister to Rens-
selaerswyck. Under which stood. Concordat haec copia cum suo originall quod
attestor, and was subscribed, J. van de Ven, Not. pub.

After collation, the above was found to agree with the copy of the original,
which witnesseth

D. V. Hamel, Secretarius of the Colonie Rensselaerswyck. — O'Callaghan's His-
tory of New Netherland, Vol. 11., 567.

Instructions of Patroon Van Rensselaer, Concerning Re-
ligion.

1652.
Jan Baptiste van Rensselaer succeeded Van Slechtenhorst as Director, and Garrit
Swart was appointed Sheriff or Schout-fiscaal of Rensselaerswyck in his place.
Provision was made at the same time for the regular preaching of the Gospel,
and the conversion of the heathen, by the appointment of the Rev. Gideon Schaats
as minister of the colony, at a salary of eight hundred guilders, or three hundred
and twenty dollars per annum. This stipend was afterwards raised to one thou-
sand, and then to thirteen hundred guilders.

1652, May 8.

Instructions drawn up by Johan van Rensselaer, Patroon and Co-director of the
colonie called Rensselaerswyck, for Gerrit Swart as OflBcer of the said Colonic,
iu'coriliui; to which lie shall, in all good faith, regulate himself.

Ha\ing arrived with -tJod's help at the Island of Manhattan, he shall proceed by
the first opporti.ni'.v 1o the Colonie, and report himself to Jan Baptist van lieus-
si'laer, and make known unto hhn his quality, by exhibition of his Comnii.s.siuu ami
Ijistrucli'^us.

He jsliall, nbove all thiug-i, t:4ke cire that Dlvlue worship shall be iii.iiiitained in
8ai<l Coliiiiic, conforniiilily Id the Reformed Religion of this couniry, as tlie s.-imc
i.s piildicly ini ght In these Uni.ed I'rovinees.

]I(> ehall. ill like manner, i)ay attention that the Lord's day, the S"abli:ith of the
New 'retit-Miiient. be pmperly respected both by the observance of hearing tin- Holy
Word, as well as the prevenlinj; all unnecessary and daily labor on said day.

And wheieas. it is a scandal, that the Christians should minj^le themselves un-
lawfully with the wives or daughters of Heathens, the Otticer shall lalioi- to put
in exv'cutiim the placards and ordinances enacted or to be enacted airulnst llu?
!-;uiii', and .strictly enact the fines imposed thereby, without any dlssiuiuluiiuu. —
0'CaIlaj;hat.s History of New Netherland, Vol. li., 1S4, jt>.j.

OF THE State of ISTew York. 311

The Mirage Seen, During the ISTegotiations Between the
Republics of England and Holland, ]VIay 29, 1652.

-yi*\--\fi, ; ' ' ; 1652.

Whilst these negotiations were going on, " signs and wonders in the heavens "
portended the approach of events which were about to convulse the world. Hostile
fleets appeared over the horizon drawn up in hostile array, and next engaged in
close combat, to the great terror and astonishment of the humble fishermen who
witnessed the phenomenon, whilst pursuing their laborious vocations off the coast
of Holland. Men's minds had hardly ceased to dwell on this singular apparition,*
when intelligence arrived that in vindication of the Dutch flag and the freedom of
the seas, an engagement had taken place in the straits of Dover, between the
Dutch and English fleets, the former under Van Tromp, and the latter under Blake.

1652

Synod of ]SForth Holland, at Amsterdam.

Changes.
1652, Aug. 12 et seq.

Art. 29. Ecclesiastical Changes.

(Here folloAvs the names of the ministers who have died in the
East Indies, or were sent thither, or have returned thence:)

Sent thither: Rev. John Backerus.

Sent to New ISTetherland : To Amsterdam, Rev. Samuel Dries
(Drisius).

To Rensselaerwyck, Rev. Gideon Schaats.

* The following account of this singular mirage, is taken from Aitz. iii., 710.
" With the rising of the sun, the pilot first pi-rceived an appeaniiiee like that of a
table-lnnd about a man's height above llie horizon. A lar^o body of foot eoldiera
and cavalry seemed to him coniiag from ovt of the north, or uotli-'eiist. At sight of
this he called his crew and boys, saying, Hcmaik this mlr.-K-lr of God. 'I'lie whole
then in appeariiuce vanished. Next appeared a fleet of ships :ij;iimst lln- clear !»ky,
on the same side, coming from tlK» north, sonii* the nial'ts.-iil half up. <> hers in full
pail, others reefed; amongst the rest was a l.ii-ge ship which l)iiuii'di:iffly lost i.s
topmast, but shortly afterwards another was ringed. This shij) st-eiutMl so near,
that its flag lay over our ves-iel. It was a flag of thnv cc-'ors, oi- a |iii rice's flag.
Shortly after a powerfrl fleet of varinis sizes :ii)pe.ircd at ihe same lu-lglil. coming
from the .^outh-east. Both fle-.-is seenied siviling lowai-ilx ■•:! -li ...bc-. ( i.niiiii; to-
gether, a thick mis*" -like smoke arose, as if they were 'g'ninL' one n.,:; 'ii.«.i the oth'T,
whicli clouded the pi.e.iomeiu-n. 'I'liis dark ui'si •! f' ••■wi i- I ■; clisi|>|M .ir-'"!. : tnl then
ilie first vessels were again seen so clear ami perfect, tlnit all liieir ei,ii..i;re .and
blocks eoul'l be perceived. Tins lasted an lio, r. Afii-rwanls nil the vessels disap-
peared as if they had sunk. I'.ut n little farther aw'iv. :ill the shijis a^;nii showed
themselvea so clear, yen. so perfect in all respects, tlmt ii seemed ;is If tliey sliouM
lieave on our board. 'I'li'Mi apDeared a vrcat armed shij) tbit seemed to touch ih(»
ground, and l;iy with its hcMd in the \v;i;er. !>iit the stern si ncU In t ln' air. an!
Jiiiother sliiji seemed t(» siiil by. 'I liis dghl continued during three Inens. .inil crea'el
euch terror iiiilong the ci-ew, tli.-it they could luil e:it. they were so nii'cli rri;;li eiieil:
so tlim the sfeersninn 'ook m book in tiis hnml. c-illf'd the Ciirisiiau Sp;i t ..;irt. aiii
began to re.id from It. for the t ncoiiMgement of himself juid men. In i be eiisi north-
oust appe-ired a great Hon. remaining on iht> iiorlli siile it ilie \e.ssels. Aliont tJi«*
same (.pmricr nppeared some striinge bensis. -ill of wh'cli turned iiro ships. ISut
though the slii[>s t.Mi'i'd or trrtied. tiie lion ki-pl sie.idv to Mie iio'-l li. and so re.
mnitiod dur'n,' the whole sl.'.'li', about two or tliree hours.'* '''his mirage ;ippenre<l
about the White W;iter. twehe (Dnich) miles e(r tlic Wait. Tlie weatlit'- wis clear
PTinslilne. nn(^ the nrM-ti'-nl.irs r"-e iiHesKMi 1m- the whole of the crew. — U'CMllng'.uin'<
History of New Netherlaud, Vol. II. ^O'J. liiW.

1652

312 Ecclesiastic Ai. Records

Article 34.

Page 16 — Regarding Article 27, (1651), concerning Rev. Wil-
liam Grasmeer: The Rev. Synod having understood the pro-
cedures and Acts of the Rev. Classis of Alkmaer, with reference
to the said Grasmeer, who has now arrived in the Fatherland,
from New Netherland; and considering especially how he has
been reconciled on certain conditions with the said Classis: and
the Rev. Synod observing from the foregoing Acta of the Synod
at Alkmaer Anno 1650, Art. 46, that his person and case were
referred to Synod: Resolves to smnmon Rev. Grasmeer, who is
now abiding at Hoom, to appear at Amsterdam on Monday next,
August 19, in order that the Rev. Synod — before which he will
have to appear — may decide as to the propriety of his admission
to the ministry of the churches, which has been already granted
to him by the Rev. Classis of Alkmaer: even as heretofore it de-
cided in regard to his deposition effected by the Rev. Classis of
Alkmaer, and which was referred by and thro the same Classis
to the Rev. Synod.

Article 39.
Rev, William Grasmeer appeared. It was proposed to him —
whether indeed he had true sorrow and repentance for his sins,
and for the painful scandals which had been brought on God's
Church, and for which he had been lawfully deposed. His mis-
deeds and offences were placed duly before him by the Rev.
President. He did in part, deny them in the face of all the facts ;
and as for the rest, he covered them up with groundless excuses,
evasions, and glossings over; and on the whole made so meager
and hesitating a confession, that the Rev. Synod resolved that he
should have time for further reflection; with the admonition to
confess his sins unfeignedly and without any reser^^ation ; and to
promise in this Synod, and in the presence of the Lord, to conduct
himself in the future as his Christian profession ajid the sacred
ministry demands.

OF THE State of j^ew York. 313

Art. 40. Eev. William Grasmeer.

Kev. Grasmeer, appeared the next day. Upon further reflec-
tions and by a more salutary explanation of himself, he openly
confessed before the Synod that he was rightfully deposed by th©
Eev. Classis of Alkmaer for his scandals and sins, as specified in
Article 46, of the Synod of Alkmaer, in 1650; and as laid be-
fore him by the Classis of Alkmaer in the reconciliation, and as
here in this Synod specifically stated. He accordingly acknowl-
edged that the approval of that deposition by the Synod, rested
on good grounds. And inasmuch as he had deplored the said
sins with all sincerity before the Rev. Classis of Alkmaer;
and had protested that they grieved him from the heart; and
thereupon had been reconciled with that Classis; he now requests
that the Kev. Synod would ratify his readmission to the ministry,
already granted him by the Classis, on the strength of a hearty
acknowledgment of the said sins. He also promised that he would
always speak in honor of the Rev. Synod and the Rev. Classis of
Alkmaer in reference to the procedures taken against him, and
that henceforth he would conduct himself as becomes a pious and
godly minister, walking worthy of the Gospel, and the sacred
ministry. The Christian Synod having heard this later and specific
confession of his sins, his promise of improvement; and also from
the brethren at Hoorn, where he is stopping, that he has conducted
himself properly since his reconciliation with the Classis of Alk-
maer so far as they know; concludes that the said Rev. Grasmeer
be placed again in a condition to receive a call; and consequently
give him permission publicly to preach before the people wher-
ever he is lawfully invited, and can be heard to edification, in con-
formity with the resolution of the Rev. Classis of Alkmaer which
was now publicly read. For this Rev. Grasmeer thanked the
Synod, after an earnest address made to him by the President.

1652

314 Ecclesiastical Records

Founding of ISTewtown and Flatbush, L. I.

1652.

Two settlements were commenced on Long Island in the course of this year. One
of these was located immediately east of the old established plantation of Mespath,
in contradistinction to which, it was familiarly called " the New Town," though its
legal appellation was Middleburg. The Indian title to the lands composing the
town was not extinguished until some years subsequent to this date. A church was
erected here previous to 1655.

The other was situate in the " Vlaclse-bos," or Flatbush, between Breukelen and
Amersfoort, and received from Director Stuyvesant the name of Middelwout.
Though endowed, at its foundation, with over a dozen parcels of land for the sup-
port of religion and schools, its progress was much impeded in its infancy. The
Indians had not been paid for their property, and in their displeasure threatened
to burn the bouweries of the early pioneers. Payment was promised, " but nothing
came of it." The inhabitants continued in constant danger, and " the village did
not thrive." These and other difficulties aljout Indian claims, superadded to the
war with England, produced a good deal of confusion and discontent, and laid the
foundation of another appeal ere long to the authorities in Holland. — O'Callaghan's
History of New Netherland, Vol. ii. 194-195.

Court Minutes of jSTew Amsterdam — Prater at the Open-
ing OF THE Court.

Feb. 6; 1653.
The first entry in the records of the magistrates of this city is a prayer, which,
having been inserted at length in their minutes, is supposed to have been designed
by them to go down to posterity, and Is therefore given in full:

" O God of Gods, and Lord of Lords, Heavenly and most Merciful Father! We
thank thee that thou hast not only created us in thine own image, but that thou
hast received us as thy children and guests when we were lost; and in addition to
all this, it has pleased thee to place us in the government of thy people in this
place.

" O Lord, our God, we, thy wretched creatures, acknowledge that we are not
worthy of this honor, and that we liave neither strength nor sufficiency to discharge
the trust committed to us, without thine assistance.

" We beseech thee, O foun .-lin of all gijud gifts, qualify ua l»y tliy grace, that
we may, with fidelity and right i'(nisiiess, serve In our respective offices. To this euJ
enlighten our darkened uiidersiandings. tliat we miy lie aide to tlistingulsii the
right from the wrong; the truth from falsehood, and that we uirty give pure and
uncorrupted decisions: h<i\iiig au eye upon thy word, a .sure giilde, giving to the
simple wisdom and knowledge. Let thy law be a light unto our feet and a lamp
to our path, so that we tuny never turn away from the path of righteousness.
Deeply impress on all our minds tiiat we are not accountable nuto men but uuto
(Jod. who seeth and beareth .ill things. Let all respci-t of persons be far removed
friMii lis, that we may award justice unto the rich and the poor, unto friends and
fueinies alike: to resiileuts ami to stranger.s, according to the law of truth; and
thiit not line of lis may swer\e iherffroin. And since gifts do liiind the eyes of
the wise. aiKl ilestroy the heart. tlKTi-forc keep our hearts aright, (.ir.-int unto us,
also, tli.-if w<> may not rashly prejiidg" aiiv oiie. williout a f:)!r liearing, hut that
ve p.'Hii'titly hear thi- parlies, and give tlietii lime and opportiiuiry for defending
themselTeii; iu all tlilugB louklii^ iiji t» tUet- ami t<> thy word for counsel amd
diiei'iiou.

•• <Jrariort«iy incline our hearts, that we exen-lsi- the power which thou li.ist given
IIS, to the gener.-il good of the community, and lo the maintenance of the church,
that we uiay be praised by theui that Uo well, nud u terror to evil-doers.

OF THE State of IN'ew York. 315

" Incline, also, the hearts of the subjects unto due obedience, so that through
their respect and obedience our burdens may be made the lighter.

" Thou knowest, Oh Lord, that the wicked and ungodly do generally contemn and
transgress thine ordinances, therefore clothe us with strength, courage, fortitude
and promptitude, that we may, with proper earnestness and zeal, be steadfast unto
the death against all sinners and evil-doers.

" Oh, good and gracious God, command thy blessing upon all our adopted resolu-
tions, that they may be rendered effectual, and redound to the honor of thy great
and holy name, to the greatest good of the trusts committed to us and to our
salvation.

'■ Hear and answer us. Oh gracious God, in these our petitions, and in all that
thou seest we need, through the merits of Jesus Christ thy beloved son, in whose
name we conclude our prayer." — Valentine's New York, pp. 55, 56, 57.

Another Translation in Records of New Amsterdam, Vol. i, 48, 49.

Father Poncet's Capture. — Visits Fort Orange. — Returns
TO Quebec, 1C53, Aug.-Oct.

AVar now interrupted all peaceful relations between the French,
and the Iroquois, and the persecution ceased in the Mohawk
country solely through lack of fuel, when the savages of that
quarter made another incursion into the heart of Canada, and
captured Father Joseph Poncet, Aug. 20, 1653, who happened
to be abroad " endeavoring to get some persons to cut the harvest
of a poor widow." Hurrying the Missionary away, with other
unfortunate persons who fell into their hands, they stripped the
captives and forced them to run the gauntlet through half a hun-
dred armed savages, then mounted them on a lofty scaffold and
obliged them to sing. Yet uncertain of his fate, a woman asked
that Ver child be permitted to cut off one of the Father's fingers.
The inyov was granted, and whilst the young barbarian was prac-
ticing this early lesson in cruelty, Poncet manifested his resigna-
tion by chanting sacred songs. For two days and three nights was
he doomed to additional tortures, whilst one of his companions
was roasted alive before his eyes, Sept. 8, 1G53. But Pro^ddenco
abandnr.cd not its servants. He was adopted by an old crone be-
longing to one of the castles, and a messenger arri\ ed a few day.s
after with intelligence that their warriors v.erc on the eve of
concliidirg a peace with the Governor of Cannda, who insisted as
a preliminary that " the black gown " should be restored. Father
Poncet now foinul liIs tit nation wonderfully improved. He was

1653

316 Ecclesiastical Records

immediately conveyed to Fort Orange to be supplied with cloth-
ing and proper surgical attendance. Here he was presented to
Commissary Dyckman, Sept. 20, 1653, who, notwithstanding M.
de Lauzon, the French Governor, had written recommending the
Father to that officer's attention, received him coldly;. and he
was about to lie down supperless on the bare boards, having no
bed, when " a worthy old Walloon " invited him into his house
and treated him with the kindest hospitality. Other settlers fur-
nished him with clothes, whilst a Scotch matron, " who was al-
ways kind to the French," sent a surgeon to dress his wounds.
During his sojourn, Poncet was still alive to the duties of his call-
ing. Having discovered two Catholics among the settlers — one
a Brussels merchant, the other a young Frenchman who acted as
interpreter to the settlement — he administered to them the con-
solations of religion, and then prepared for his return. On the
day of his departure, his generous Dutch friends crowded around
him with presents, and expressed the warmest regret at his leav-
ing them. He cheered them with the promise that he should re»-
tum again in the course of the ensuing summer, and consented
to accept only an overcoat, a pair of moccassins, and a pair of
shoes, with a blanket " to serve him as a bed on the road." A
few fish were all his stock of provisions, and with these he set
out for home, where he arrived in the course of the following
month, Oct. 3, 1653. His journey to the Mohawk country had
been by the Kichelieu River and Lake Champlain. On his ref-
turn he was conducted by way of the Oswego to Lake Ontario,
and thence down the St. Lawrence to Quebec. It is more than
probable he was the first white man that traversed that region.
A peace was now solemnly concluded between the Mohawks and
the French, the latter leaving two of their countrymen hostages
for its faithful observance.

OF THE State of Kew Yoek. 31 <

1653

Classis of Amsterdam.

Correspondence from America. — There is an abstract of this
letter in Vol. 26, p. 146, made by the Deputies.

Eevs. Megapolensis and Drisins to the Classis of Amsterdam,

Oct. 6, 1653.

Reverend, Pions and Learned Fathers in Christ: —

We acknowledge with grateful hearts the favor of God, the
good will of the Directors, and the zealous care of your Reverend
body, for the defence, and maintenance of the Ref onued Religion
in this foreign land, which is under the privileged government
of the Honorable Company, and which has obligated the Governor
by oath, in their commission to him, to permit no other religion
than the Reformed.

We have hitherto enjoyed the full benefit of our religion in
this province. But recently, on the 4th of October last, it hap-
pened that certain Lutheran residents here, prepared and pre-
sented a certain request to our Governor, (asking for) permis-
sion to call a Lutheran Minister out of Holland, and also to or-
ganize separately and publicly a congregation and church. This
would tend to the injury of our church, the diminution of hearers
of the Word of God, and the increase of dissensions, of which
we have had a sufficiency for years past. It would also pave the
way for other sects, so that in time our place would become a
receptacle for all sorts of heretics and fanatics.

Observe that these petitioners have not only tmce before made
this request of our Governor, but have also addressed letters to
their Hight Mightinesses, the States of Holland, and to the Hon.
Directors of the West India Company. Therefore it is our humble
and earnest request, that your Rev. body will use your influence
with the Hon. Directors, of the Company, that they may so pro-
vide and determine, that the project of our Lutheran friends may
be rejected, and thus the welfare, prosperity and edification of
the church in this place, may be promoted. For as long as no

1653

318 Ecclesiastical Records

other religion tlian the Eeformed has been publicly allowed, all
who wish to engage in public worship come to our service. By
this means it has happened that several, among whom are some
of the principal Lutherans, have made a profession of religion,
and united with us in the Lord's Supper, We have communicated
these matters to the Hon. Directors (Heeren majores), in whom
we have the greatest confidence, but we request your Rev. body
occasionally to refresh their memories, lest through want of proper
attention to the subject, the requested permission should be given.
Our Governor here is zealous for the Reformed Religion, and
would rather relinquish his office than grant permission in this
matter, since it is contrary to the first article of his commission,
which was confirmed by him with an oath, not to permit any other
than the Reformed doctrine.

Finally, we commend your Rev. body to the gracious protection
of the Most Lligh, whose blessing both you and we need for suc-
cess in our sacred office.

Your Reverences' Obedient,

Johannes Megapolensis, V. D. M.
!N'ew Amsterdam, Samuel Drisius, V. D. M.

Oct. 6, 1653.

Deduction Made by the Directok General and Council, Re-
garding THE Remonstrance of the 11th of December
(1653, Signed by the Burgomasters and Schepens of This
City and Some En'glishmen.

The third point.

The English do not only enjoy the right of nominating their own Magistrates,
but some of them also usurp the election and appointment of such Magistrates, as
they please, without regard to their religion. Some, especially the people of
Gravesend, elect libertines and Anabaptists, which is decidedly against the laws of
the Netherlands.*— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 233, 235.

* The West India Company had begun to become alarmed at dangers which
threatened New Netherland from New England. The boundary line was in dispute.
Stuyvesant was compelled, though unwillingly, to listen to the advice of the prin-
cipal citizens, and give up part of the revenue from the excise, but insisted that
the city government should support the two clergymen, the schoolmasters and the
secretary. But the Burgomasters and Schepens demanded that the whole city reve-
nue should be surrendered into their hands, or they would resign. After much
debate, Stuyvesant surrendered to them the excise on liquor upon condition that
the Burgomasters and Schepens should furnish subsidies for the maintenance of
the City work, and for civil and ecclesiastical affairs. — Brodhead's N. Y. i. 567-8.

OF THE State of j^ew York. 31i)

CoMMissioisr OF Rev. Samuex. Dmsms as Diplomatic Agent to
BE S^NT to Virginia.

Petrus Stuyvesant, on behalf of their Noble High Mightinesses, the Lorfls-States-
General of the United Netherlands, and the Noble Lords-Directors of the Privi-
leged West India Company, Director-General of New Netherland, Curacao,
Bonayro, Aruba and dependencies, with the High Council; December 16, 1653.

To all who may read this, or hear it read, Greeting:

Know ye, that for the purpose of promoting a general peace and the welfare of
both nations, we have in May last past deputed, commissioned and sent our extra-
ordinary agents, the Honorable Cornells van Tienhoven, Councillor and Fiscal of
New Netherland, and Arent van Hattem, Burgomaster of this City, to the Very
Honorable Richard Bennett, Governor and Captain General of Virginia and his
Council of State, in order to covenant and conclude with them a close and firm
alliance, correspondence and commerce between their and this our Government,
without regard to the undesired and unexpected bloody differences, arisen to our
great regret between their and our nation in Europe, as their credentials and com-
missions have further informed the said Honorable Governor and Council. How-
ever the said Honorable Governor, and the Council of State in Virginia, found
themselves at that time unauthorized, to give a conclusive answer to the proposi-
tions made by our then agents, before they, as they honestly and frankly stated In
their reply, had first submitted them to, and advised thereupon with their superiors,
the Government of England, which they intended and agreed to do by the first
opportunity. If this has been done agreeably to their sincere Intention, we trust,
that the said Honorable Governor and Council of State received some time ago an
answer from their superiors, or may be in daily expectation of it.

Therefore the Director-General and Council of New Netherland have resolved, for
the promotion of so laudable an object as the continuation of peace, increase of
commerce and cultivation of correspondence between siTch old friends, neighbors
and co-religionists living in such distant countries, to send once more an authorized
and suitable person thither, to remind the said Honorable Governor and Council of
Virginia of our former good intentions, which we .still have, and our proposlMons,
and to iearn their reply. We have hereto requested, also authorized and commis-
sioned, the Reverend and Very Learned Mr. Samuel Driesius. Minister of the Gospel
in the City of New Amsterdam; and, fully relying upon his ability, wisdom and
experience, we have directed him, as by this our open letter and commission we
direct and empower him, to go to Virginia and address himself there to the said
Honorable Governor, Richard Bennett, and his Council, In order to receive, in his
quality as our embassador, from the said Governor and Council, an answer to our
former propositions, and to learn what reply was given by their superiors upon the
matter submitted. If the said Honorable Governor and Cohncll should not yet have
received it, then he is to propose and ask for a provisional conMmmtlon of the com-
merce and intercourse between the two places, a free pass or safeguard, signed by
the Honorable Governor, for some of their merchants and yachts, to pay and col-
lect debts among inhabitants of Virginia; as we on our side have given and are still
willing to give, passes to come and go, to the ships and yachts coming to us from
Virginia. All this to be only provisionally, until on either side we shall have re-
ceived orders to the contrary from our superiors, aud countermanded the provisional
passes, of which such ships and yachts might be informed six or eight days before-
hand; that thus private losses, general injury and further difTerences between na-
tion and nation might be prevented. If this cannot be obtained, then he shall ask
for a free pass for one ship to bring back our envoy free and unmolested by the
Parliament ships.

1653

320 Ecclesiastical Records

1653

We further promise by this our open letter and commission, to ratify and carry
out all that may be covenanted and concluded in this matter between the said
Honorable Governor, his Council, and our present envoy, Domlne Samuel Drisius.
Done at New Amsterdam In New Netherland, the 16th of December 1653.

P. StuyveScint.
By order.

Cornells van Ruyven,

Secretary. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 241, 242.

1653.
At the close of this year, " the Reverend and very learned Samuel Drisius, min-
ister of the Gospel In the city of New Amsterdam," was sent to renew the former
proposals to Gov. Bennett, and to conclude with him a commercial treaty, including
a power to the merchants of New Netherland to collect debts due them in Virginia.
Should these be accepted, the Director General pledged himself to ratify whatever
hla plenipotentiary might agree to, provided, however, that six or eight days notice
may be given of any intention to revoke such agreement as may be concluded, " so
as to prevent losses and animosities between nation and nation.' This mission
proved entirely successful.* — O'Callaghan, ii. 235.

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.
1654 1654, Jan. 1st.

Eequest to the Hon. XIX, to prevent Lutheran Preaching and
Public Assemblies in Xew Netherland, with Answer thereto.

Concerning the complaint of the church in New Netherland:
The Lutherans there have desired to call a pastor from Holland,
and organize public assemblies, (congregations.) They have re-
quested consent thereto by letters to the Hon. XIX, as also to
the Hon. States of Holland, as appears from the extracts, (folio
146) of their letter sent to our Classis. They request that our
Classis would help to prevent this, with all earnestness, before
the Hon. Directors of the West India Company, as it would be a
circumstance very injurious to the Refonned doctrine there.

This complaint was presented by the Deputati ad res Indicas
to the Hon. Directors. They have responded that they were in-
clined to oppose the plan of the Lutherans; that they, with the
church in New Netherland, believe that such permission would
be very injurious. They also declare their fear that other evil
consequences might result; that the Mennonites, as well as the

• Domlne Drisius's commission is in Alb. Rec. ix., 59. It embodies the statements
In the text. It is rather singular that none of the historians of Virginia, (at least,
so far as our research has gone,) gives any particulars of these early embassies.

OF THE State of Xew York. 321

English Independents, who are numerous there, might seek to
introduce like public assemblies.

And as the Deputies represented that the Lutherans had not
only made known their request to the Hon. Directors, but also
to the Hon. States of Holland, and that it was to be feared that
they might grant their petition; they reply thereto, that they
would take care in this matter ; that in case the Hon. States should
incline thereto, they would give opposing reasons; that they would
bind themselves to resist the request of the Lutherans, and would
notify the Deputati ad res Indicas, that they might transmit (such
information) to the church in New iSTetherland, in the city of iSTew
Amsterdam. — xxvi. 148.

Father Le Moyne, Feb. 5,-Aug. 16, 1654. Discovers the Salt

Springs.

The friendship exhibited at this period by the savages covered, however, a deeper
policy than the mere desire for peace. Their continual ■wars had thinned their
ranks, and they were desirous to obtain the removal of the Hurons to their country
to supply the places of those they had lost. This motive alone had Induced them
to restore Poncet. But this policy was not confined to the Mohawks. The Onon-
dagoes had suffered also from their contests with the Chats or Cat Indians, and
wished to embody the Hurons among their tribe. They were likewise anxious to
be independent of the Mohawks, at whose hands they experienced considerable 111
treatment in their passage through the lower country to the Dutch. They calcu-
lated that they could secure this by uniting themselves more closely with the
French, whom they wished to build them a fort, where their wives and children
might retire in time of danger. To accomplish all these purposes, they now visited
Canada, Feb. 5, 1654, and solicited the Governor of that country to send, as a pre-
liminary, a Jesuit Father among them. Simon Le Moyne, a missionary of much
experience, who had already passed eighteen years among the Indians, was accord-
ingly allowed to accompany them. He had not been gone many days, when a depu-
tation of the Kayingehagas, or Mohawks strengthened with letters from the Dutch
of Beverwyck, arrived July 4, 1654, to make a similar request. They were exceed-
ingly disappointed when they learned that the Onondagoes had forestalled them.
" We of the Five Nations have but one cabin," said their orator; " we make but
one fire, and have always dwelt under the same roof. Is It not then by the door
that the house should be entered, and not by the chimney and roof, unless you be
a thief and desire to surprise the Inmates? You do not enter by the door, which
Is on the first floor. We, Mohawks, are that door. You enter by the roof and
chimney, for you begin with the Onondagoes. Are you not afraid that the smoke
will blind you, as our fire Is still burning? Do you not fear to fall from the top
to the bottom, having nothing solid to rest your feet on? " Means were taken to
pacify them, and they retired for a season to their homes.

Father Le Moyne was, meanwhile, far on his Journey to the country of the Onon-
dagoes. He sojourned among that tribe some ten days, and crowned his mission,
on the 16th of August, 16.')4, by the discovery of the rich and exhaust loss Salt
Springs for which that district has been so long and so Justly celebrated. — O'Cnl-
laghan's History of New Netherland, Vol. 11. 209-303.
21

1654

322 Ecclesiastical Records

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

1654, Feb. 23rd.

The request of the church of New Amsterdam in New Nether-
land, recorded on folio 148, has been granted by the Hons. Lords,
Directors of the West India Company. They resolved, Feb. 23,
1654, not to permit any Lutheran pastors there, nor any other
public worship than that of the true Reformed ; and to transmit
this, their resolution, at the first opportunity to their Governor,
and to announce the same to the Church.

At the same time they declare, that if a suitable person could
be found, willing to go to New Netherland, and there take charge
of public worship upon a certain island,* they will also consent
thereto, and that they had appropriated sLx hundred guilders as
annual salary. They request the Classis of Amsterdam to look
about and discover whether a suitable person could not be found
for this service, and to make the same known to them.— xxvi.
158.

The Classis of Amsterdam to Revs. John Megapolensis and
Samuel Dries (Drisius), Pastors in New Netherland; written
and transmitted Feb. 26, 1654. For resolution of the XIX,
see above. — xxvi. 158.
Reverend, Godly, Highly Learned, Brethren:—

Your letter of Oct. 6, 1653, came safely to hand. From it
we learn with great joy that God the Lord has hitherto blessed
your labors in his vineyard, so that the saving doctrine of the
Holy Gospel grows and increases daily not only among the Dutch
and other Europeans, but also among the blind heathen, whom
God has heretofore suffered to walk in their own ways of errors.
We learn also from your letter that the Lutherans are very
restless; that they hinder the pure doctrine a nd obstruct its

(»This reference is to Long Island, where no Dutch churches were as yet
established).

OF THE State of New York. 3213

course, requesting permission to hold public divine services for
themselves, and to that end, that they may have a Lutheran pas-
tor from Holland; also that they have transmitted their request
to the Hon. XIX, and to the States of Holland.

This gi-ieves us. But you have acted very well and prudently
in that you have not only attempted to hinder their purpose
through your Hon. Governor, but have also transmitted to the
Hon. Directors your complaint, (asking them) not to grant their
request. At the same time you have requested our Classis to
lend you their helping hand. This we have willingly undertaken.
We immediately charged our Deputati ad res Indicas to make
known your necessaiy and just request, with your annexed rea-
sons, to the Hon. Lords Directors, and to request favorable ac-
tion thereon. This was done, and we have received a favorable
answer concerning it, viz., that they would consider the request,
which -was also made known to them by yourselves, and would
reply to us.

This they have done. They have notified us that they have
refused the request of the Lutherans in every particular, and
have resolved to tolerate no other (public) exercise of divine
worship in New JSTetherland except that of the true Eeformed
Religion. They would also transmit their action to their Gov-
ernor, by the first vessels, and have the same promulgated there.
Hence we do not doubt but that the Reformed Doctrines will
remain unembarrassed, and be maintained without being hin-
dered by the Lutherans, and other erring spirits. May the mer-
ciful God grant to them his grace, and graciously bless you and
your services, to the honor of his name, and the propagation of
the true worship.

Thus done at Amsterdam, Yeh. 26, (N.S.) 1654, in the name
and by the order of the Classis of Amsterdam. Written and
signed by

(In the volumes of Correspondence of the Classis, 26-32, the
names of the writers are frequently omitted).

1664

1654

324 Ecclesiastical Records

To send a Preacher to 'New j^etherland.

1654, March 2nd.

Inasmuch as the Messrs. Directors of the West India Com-
pany ordered the Deputati ad res Indicas to seek a candidate
who is willing to sail as minister to New l^etherland, and prom-
ise to give him a salary of six hundred guilders, ($240.) and
some perquisites (privileges) besides, the brethren were asked if
they happened to know of any such candidate. Inasmuch
as at present no one was found, it remains further recommended
to these Brethren to bear the subject in mind. — v. 319.

Directors to Stuyvesant : Church Affairs.

Honorable, Worshipful, Pious, Dear, Faithful.

We hav<; decided absolutely to deny the request made by some of our inh'abitants,
adherents of the Augsburg confession, for a preacher and free exercise of their
religion, pursuant to the custom hitherto observed by us and the East India Com-
pany, on account of the consequences arising therefrom; and we recommend to you
also not to receive any similar petitions, but rather to turn them off in the most
civil and least offensive way, and to employ all possible but moderate means in
order to Induce them to listen, and finally join the Reformed Church, and thus
live in greater love and harmony among themselves.

We have been pleased to see the zeal of several of our Inhabitants of a new
village on Long Island for the Reformed religion; and that it may not cool, we
have resolved, upon this representation, to contribute, in the beginning, six hun-
dred florins yearly, and are looking about here for a fit and pious teacher or
minister: we have also notified the Reverend Classis here, so that you and the
people may expect him by the first opportunity. We are hereby reminded, that
now and then complaints are made to us, of the inconveniences and troubles to
which Domines Johannis Megapolensis and Samuel Drislus are unreasonably ex-
posed there by the Irregular and scanty payment of their respective salaries. We
are astonished to hear, that even the former has to claim an arrear of several
thousand guilders, although you had made a special agreement with him, that his
"salary should be paid there; while the other has been sent to you on the same
condition: as this has always been your proposition, based upon so good and fair
reasons, and was really necessary, as stated before, it surprises us, that you take
no better care to place these men above want. To prevent this in future, we
deem it requisite to charge you, herewith, and seriously recommend, that you
satisfy the demands of these persons as best you can, there, so that no further
complaints are made to us. March 12, 1654. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 250, 252, 253.

OF THE State of New Yokk. 325

■ Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies. — William Vestensz.

1654, May llth.

Eev. WittenwTongel mentions that he has received word from
William Vestensz, in which he complains of slow payments. He
requests, through the intervention of the Classis, some compen-
sation for his four years' administration of the office of sexton;
also that another be sent in his place, and he, upon his return, be
transferred, as Visitor of the Sick, to the East Indies. This is
referred to the Rev. Deputati ad res Indicas. xxvi. 169.

Ministers' Salaries.
; 1654, June 1.

The Fiscal is ordered and commanded to notify and Inform Burgomasters and
Schepens, that the ministers have applied to us, by petition, for their accrued
salaries; and as a half-year's allowance has matured and become due since the'
excise has been drawn by the Burgomasters and Schepens; Burgomasters and
Schepens will therefore please to furnish the accrued half-year's salary out of the
receipt, according to promise. Done In the Session of the Hon. Director General
and Supreme Council of New Netherland, in New Amsterdam, June 1st 1654.

Agrees with Register of Resolutions.

Cor. Van Ruyven, Sec.
— Records New Amsterdam, i. 206. Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 268-9.

Director-Generae to the Burgomasters etc.

OF Kew Amsterdam, Pay the Ministers'

Salaries, etc.

1654

To the Worshipful Burgomasters and Schepens of New Amsterdam: Today we
take God and our consciences, your Worships and other reuptable citizens, as
witnesses, that we have now, and before this, repeatedly, reminded your Worships
of the precarious situation; and requested to think of assistance and means. Your
Worships' word and promise were good enough, and, influenced by them, we let
your Worships have provisionally the Tavern keepers' Excise on the distinct
promise, that your Worships would then provide moans and take care, that the
ministers of the Gospel should be paid their salaries.

New Amsterdam, June 8th, 1654. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 271. 272.

1654.

These propositions did not satisfy the Director General. The promise to com-
plete the fort, after the city had been secured, was not redeemed. The monies
already borrowed were expended in defending the city, and not in repairing the
fort. Those who advanced that loan were urgent for its payment. The Burgo-
masters and Schepens had received the excise, but had not furnished the sub-

326 Ecclesiastical Records

Bldles which they had so solemnly promised, and now presumed to fix their quota
at three thousand guilders, when it was notorious that they had collected more
than that sum. They had not contributed a farthing towards repairing the public
works, yet they pretended, " very abusively," to give good example. As they
had now failed in their duty, and had not paid the clergymen, schoolmaster nor
beadle, the Director and Council reclaimed the excise, and farmed It out. " Both
the gospel ministers " were paid, and the whole subject was again referred to the
Lords Patroons in Holland for their decision. The Amsterdam Directors were not
in the best of humor on receiving intelligence of the obstinacy of the city fathers.
They immediately instructed Stuyvesant to use his authority to enforce the orders
he had already received, " so that these men may no longer indulge in the visionary
dream that contributions cannot be levied without their consent." — O'Cailaghan'B
History of New Netherland, Vol. 11. 269, 270.

Classis of Amsterdam.
Correspondence from America.

1654, July 15tli.
Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to the Classis of Amsterdam.
Reverend, Pious, Very Learned Fathers and Brethren in Christ :

Your letter of 26th of February of this year (1654) is most
acceptable. We understand from it, that our request that you
would aid us as far as practicable in the matter of the Lutherans
here, has been considered by you, and that through your repre-
sentations, the Lutheran request before the Hon. Directors,
(Heeren majores) has been rejected. Thus also the way for
other sectaries is closed up. By this a great service has been
rendered to our church, for which our thanks are due.

In addition to this, you make mention in your letter, that you
have gathered from our letters, that the knowledge of the Gos-
pel is making great progress among the Indians here. Speak-
ing with all deference, we do not know or think that we have
furnished any such intelligence in our letters. We greatly wish
indeed, that such were the state of things among the Indians,
but as yet, there is little appearance of it. It is indeed true
that a sachem of the Indians has sojourned for a length of time
among us at the Manhattans, who was diligent in learning to
read and write, which he learned to do tolerably well. He was
also instructed in the principal grounds of the christian faith.

OF THE State of Kew York. 327

and publicly joined in recitations on the catechism by christian
children. We gave him a Bible that he might peruse it and
teach his own countrymen from it. We hoped that in due time
he might be the instrument of accomplishing considerable good
among the Indians. But we acknowledge that he has only the
bare knowledge of the truth, without the practice of godliness.
He is greatly inclined to drunkenness, and indeed, is not better
than other Indians. We do not indeed expect much fruit of
religion among these barbarous nations, until they are brought
under the government of Euorpeans, as these latter increase in
numbers. Finally, we commend you to the care and protection
of tlie Most High. Pray also for his blessing on our ministry.

Johannes Megapolensis.
Samuel Drisius.
XcAV Amsterdam, July 25, 1654.

To the Worshipful, Worthy, Dear, Faithful, The Schont, Burgomasters and
Schepens of the City of New Amsterdam, with Proclamation. (Peace between
the Republics of England and Holland.)

1654, July 18. City Hall. Saturday.
On the date hereof, Burgomasters and Schepeus of the city of New Amsterdam,
in conformity with the following letter, cause to be published and affixed at the
City Hall, after the usual preliminary ringing of the bell, the (Proclamation) of
Peace, which has been concluded between the Ilepublics of England and Holland,
according to the printed copy.

Copy.
The Director General and Supreme Council of New Netherland:
Worshipful, Worthy, Dear, Particular: —

This serves to convey the Proclamation of Peace, Union and Confederation
made and concluded on the 15th of April last (1654), at Westminster, between
Messrs. the Commissioners of the Lord I'rotector of the Republic of England,
Scotland and Ireland on the one part, and the Ambassadors of their Noble, High
and Mighty the Lords States General of the United Netherlands on the other part.
Which I'roclamation sent us by their said Noble High Mightinesses, we have
thought proper to communicate hereby to Your Worships, charging and command-
ing you, to cause the said Proclamation of I'eace, Union and Confederation, to be
published and affixed, where it is customary to be done; and the contents
thereof; according to its form and tenor, you are to have observed and obeyed
in good faith by all who are or may be placed under you. Wherewith ending, we
commend Your Worships to the gracious protection of the Most High. New
Amsterdam, in New Netherland, this 17th day of July, Anno 1654.

P. Stuyvesant.

By Order of the Director General and Supreme Council.

Corn, van Ruyven, Sec. — Records New Amsterdam, 1. 215.

1654

328 Ecclesiastical Records

1654, Aug. 24th.

Catharine Polhemus, wife of the minister recently in Brazil re-
quests the assistance of the Brethren, the Deputies, to procure her
the money, which her husband, Kev. Mr. Polhemus, had earned.
Her request was received, and Rev. Langelius will inquire of
book-keeper Schaef, what the prospect is of her being paid. XX.
314.— See also Doc. Hist. X. Y. iii. TO.

CouKT Minutes of Xew Amsteedam.

Support of the Church, etc., in New Amsterdam.

1654, August 24.

The Burgomasters and Schepens of the City of New Amsterdam all due rever-
ence and respect represent:

That on the 21st of July being assembled collegialiter at the invitation of the
Honorable Director General, his Honor did in the presence of two ministers.
Dominies Megapolensis and Driesius, call their attention to the letter of the
Directors of the Chamber of Amsterdam, the Lords and Patroons of this Province
of New Netherland, and to their request, and therefore being admonished to think
no more of all that had ever passed heretofore and to live in future in all friend-
ship, which was mutually promised. At the same time the Honorable General
delivered to the Burgomasters and Schepens a despatch sent by the Honorable
Lords to the Burgomasters and Schepens, according to which we are determined
to regulate ourselves and to obey all that is therein mentioned.

Therefore the Director General and Supreme Council have been pleased by a
certain writing dated the 4th of August, delivered to us, partially to reprove us
for certain omissions and to urge upon us the great necessity to devise some ways
and means, to support and maintain the civil and ecclesiastical service and the
Military, who have come in the ships from Fatherland and are still expected to
arrive in others, and to make provision for the payment of the quota of all the
money taken up for the making of the public walls and works, etc.; in addition
thereto that the Burgomasters and Schepens had obtained last year the receipt of
the Tapsters' Excise from the Director General and Council on the condition, that
the Church expenses be paid out of it and that the Burgomasters and Schepens
should furnish something else as a supplement thereto.

Whereupon Burgomasters and Schepens of the City of New Amsterdam who
consider nothing else, but the welfare, union and advantage of this City and their
Superiors of this Province, in order then first to put everything on a solid founda-
tion, have as precursors offered as their quota the sum of three thousand guilders,
as appears by Resolution of the 10th of August, transmitted to the Director Gen-
eral, and the other Courts contributing in proportion, they maintain, that the
borrowed moneys and incurred debts can be paid off.

And whereas it has been decided by the Honorable Directors as Lords and
Patroons of this Province, as appears from the 4th Article of the despatch sent
to the Burgomasters and Schepens, that the excise shall be paid into our Treasury
and be there received; Therefore we do, by these presents; offer to take upon us
to support henceforth at the expense of this City of New Amsterdam:

Of the Church — One of tlie Ministers, one Precentor, being at the same time
Schoolmaster, one Dogwhipper (Beadle). — Early Records of New Amsterdam,
Vol. i. 232.

OF THE State of IS^ew Yoek. 329

Burgomasters and Schepens to the Directok

AND Council: Salaries of the Ministers, The Church Of-
ficers^ Aug. 31, 1654.

To the Noble, Very Worshipful, Honorable Director-General and High Council of
New Netherland:

The Burgomasters and Schepens of the City of New Amsterdam show with due
reverence and submission.

On the 20th of July, while in session, they were summoned before the Honorable
Director-General, when his Honor in presence of two ministers, Domine Mega-
poleusis and Drlesius, communicated to them the letter from the Noble Lords-
Directors, Department of Amsterdam, Lords and Patroons of this Province of
New Netherland, and what their Noble "Worships demanded. His Honor thereupon
admonished them not to remember what had passed before, but to live henceforth
in harmony, which was promised by both sides. Then the Honorable Director-
General delivered to the Burgomasters and Schepens the letter addressed to them
by the Noble Lords-Directors, by which we are willing to govern ourselves, fol-
lowing the directions contained therein.

Now the Honorable General and High Council have been pleased to censure us
in a memorial sent us on the 4th August concerning some omissions and to lay
before us the great necessity of providing a revenue, by which the civil administra-
tion, the church and the military (arrived by the last ships and to be expected
In the following ones) might be supported and maintained; also to determine our
quota of the amounts to be paid for the loan, for the building of the walls and
breastworks around the City, and to remember, besides, that the Burgomasters
and Schepens had obtained last year the revenues from the Tavernlieepers' Excise
under condition, that the expenses of the ecclesiastical establishment should be
paid therefrom, and that the Burgomasters and Schepens should maiie good the
deficit from other resources.

1654

Whereas the Xoble Lords Directors, as Lords and Patroons of this Province have
consented, that the Excise shall be paid into the City's Treasury, as the 4th article
of their letter to the Burgomasters and Schepens shows:

Therefore we agree and engage ourselves on behalf of this City of New Amster-
dam to pay for the ecclesiastical establishment the salaries of

One of the preachers;

One precentor, who is to be schoolmaster at the same time; etc., etc. — Col.
Docs. N. y. xiv. 288, 289.

Answer of the Director General and Council to the Letter
OF the Burgomasters, etc., Dated August 31 (1654), Re-
ferring it to the Home Authorities.

As the Burgomasters and Schepens do not fulfill their promise and carry out the
conditions, to provide for some other revenue hi place of the Taverukeepers' Ex-
cise, and as they have failed to let out the same for the purpose of paying the
salaries of the clergymen and placing them above want; the Director General and
Council are compelled to lot out the said Excise to the highest bidder in con-
formity with their resolution of the 13th of August last past, and to employ the
proceeds in promptly providing for the support of the clergy. By these means
the Burgomasters and Scliopens will be excused and delivered from carrying out
their offer, to support at their expense, one clergyman, one schoolmaster, and one

1654

330 Ecclesiastical Records

beadle; the intentions and order of the Lords Directors will be executed, the jus
patrouatus will be preserved, and both the clergymen paid and placed above want.

Given at New Amsterdam in New Netherland September 16, 1654.

P. Stuyvesant.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 291, 293.

Order on a Petition from the Court of Midwout and Ames-
FOORT Respecting Church Matters.

The Magistrates of Midwout and Amesfoort presented to the Council a petition,
which is copied into the Book of Petitions, and to which the following answer was
given.

It is resolved upon the petition of the Court of Midwout and Amesfoort, first
concerning the proposition to continue the teacher; that they must proceed in this
matter according to the rules of the Church, and await the answer of the Lords
Directors to the request made by the said Court or its deputies. Meanwhile the
Director General and Council are satisfied, that the present teacher, Domine
Polhemius, attend to the divine service among them, until further orders shall
have been received from the Fatherland; and they also consent, that he shall
receive for his ministrations a proper and fair remuneration in conformity with
the teachings of the Apostle Paul, " that he, who serves at the alter, shall live
by it ".

Thus done etc. New Amsterdam, Oct. 13, 1654.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 294.

!N'ote ON Church at Midwout and Domine Polhemus.

1654.

Hitherto, however, the Dutch towns on Long Island had neither clergyman nor
church, and the inhabitants, of necessity, attended divine worship at New Amster-
dam. The Reverend Johannes Theodorus Polhemus, who had been previously
minister at Itamarca in Brazil, having now arrived in the province, received a call
from Midwout, where a small cruciform church, some sixty feet by twenty eight,
was soon after erected by general subscription. It was the first Dutch church on
Long Island: the congregation was composed of the adjoining towns, and here
divine service was performed every Sunday morning; the afternoon sermon being
preached alternately at Breukelen and Amersfoort.*

* N. A. Rec; Alb. Rec. iv., 179; ix., 238, 302; x., 332. Domine Polhemus was
joined by his wife, Catherine, in 1656. He had two children Theodorus and Daniel,
from whom have descended all those of the name in this country. By the arrival
of the Rev. Mr. Selyns, in 1660, Breukelen was separated from the church of Flat-
bush. In 1665, the congregation of Amersfoort demanded to be put on an equal
footing with that of Flatbush, in respect to church service, and that Mr. Polhemus
should preach each alternate Sunday forenoon to them, for which they would pay
him four hundred guilders a year. " light money," being the same as he got from
Flatbush. The latter congregation objected to this arrangement, and persisted in
retaining the Domine at four hundred guilders per annum, " wampum currency."
This caused his Reverence to appeal to Gov. Nicolls, who decided that each church
should have equal attendance, that is, morning and evening service on alternate
Sabbaths, for which Amersfoort (now Flattlands) should pay a sum equal to what
it agreed to give the Company for tenths, and Midwout four hundred florins a year,
until her tenths would be due, when these were to be appropriated as those of Flatt-
lands. Midwout (or Flatbush) would not agree to this, and a sharp letter (June lst>
came in consequence from the Governor's secretary. This was submitted to the
congregation on the 18th, who resolved unanimously to content themselves with a
Precentor, (voorleezer,) as the congregation was still weak. On the following day
a resolution to the same effect was passed at a meeting of the constables, magls
trates and consistory of the villages of Amersfoort and Midwout, and Domine Pol-
hemus was dismissed. (Flatbush Rec.) He died 9th June. 1676, " the worthy and
beloved pastor " of the church of Brooklyn, whereby (the Records of that church
say) the congregation was " deprived of his pious instructions, godly example, and
edifying preaching, especially in the administration of the Holy Sacrament of the
Lord's Supper." — O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol. ii., 272.

OF THE State of jSTew York. \ 331

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies, and their Correspondence.

1654, I^ov. 11th.

The Classis of Amsterdam to the Ministers in ISTew N"etherland.

XXVI. 174.

Eeverend, Godly and Highly Learned Brethren, the Ministers of
the Divine Word of the Church in New ISTetherland : —

The Hon, Directors of the West India Company have requested
us to look about for a suitable person to be sent as pastor to
ISTew Xetherland. We have already given diligence to find such
a person, but objection is made to the meagreness of the salary-
for only six hundred guilders are promised. If now the salary
could be increased and brought up to twelve hundred, or even
one thousand guilders, we might hope to send a suitable person;
but no one desires to undertake such a journey on so small a
salary. There is also a certain William Vestensz, Visitor of the
Sick, in New Netherland, who has discharged the office of sexton
for four years and who has not been compensated therefor.
Worthy Brethren, we unite with him in kindly requesting you,
to be pleased so to manage that he may receive some compensa-
tion therefor.

William Vestensz also requests, since he intends to return, that
some one else be sent in his place. We are not unwilling to
look about for a substitute.

Herewith closing, we commend you, Reverend, godly and
highly learned gentlemen, to the protection of the Most High,
and pray God that he may bless your labors.

In great haste, Amsterdam, Nov. 11, 1654. In the name of
the Classis, Your obedient,

Simon Wilmirdonx,
Minister of the Gospel in Amsterdam.

(1654, Dec. 13. Robert Livingston, born at Ancram, Scot-
land. — Doc. Hist. iii. 434.)

1654

332 -' • ' Ecclesiastical Recokds

1654

Al'POIISrTMENT OF COMMISSIONERS FOR BuiLDING A ChURCH AND
PxiRSONAGE AT MiDWOUT.

A vote having been taken on the request of the commissaries of the village of
Mldwout to have a Church built there and accommodation for the minister; it was
r«solved to prepare and build in the village of Mldwout a house of about sixty or
•ixty five feet in length, twenty eight feet in width and twelve or fourteen feet
high under the crossbeams, with an extension in the rear, where a chamber may
be partitioned off for the preacher; while the divine service can for the present be
held In the front part, until we have more funds and the material necessary for a
Church has been collected. Then this building shall be used for a parsonage and
barn.

To promote this worli the Rev. Domine Megapolensis, Minister of the Gospel in
the City of New Amsterdam, Jan Snediger and Jan Strycker are hereby appointed
and authorized to make public and private contracts, as they may deem it most
useful and advantageous for the community.

Thus done etc. New Amsterdam December 17, 1654. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 310.

Acts of the Classis of x\msterdam.

Herm. Blom.
1555 1655, Jan. 4th.

Rev. Rudolphus vander Meer, Hermannus Blom, Theodore
Sas, Paul Broeckhuysen, John a Bnrem, (or Burnm), having
handed in their credentials, beg to be received, as recommended.
The credentials having been approved, and the propositions
treated by them, having been heard with pleasure, their request
is granted upon their signing the Formulae. — v. 359.

Rev. Polhemus.

Rev. Langelius informs us that he has understood that the
Rev. Polhemus has arrived in !N^ew Xetherland, and that he
(Langelius) has been requested by the wife (of Polhemus) to
assist her in obtaining his arrearages of salary; also that intel-
ligence has been received here; that the church there was seek-
ing the Directors' approbation, of the call made upon him;
meanwhile, they were already employing him.

The Assembly resolved that the Rev. Deputies assist the
wife of Rev. Polhemus, and that they also seek to obtain from
the Directors the approbation of his call, (to Long Island.) —
V. 360; xxvi. 175.

OF THE State of !N^ew Yokk. 333

William Yestiensz.

1655 — January 26.

" William Verstius, [Vestlensz.] Schoolmaster and Chorister In this city, solicited
the Council by a petition, as he had completed his service; and whereas there were
now several persons fully competent to acquit themselves in this charge, that he
might be favored with his dismission, and permitted to return to Holland in the
first ship." — Dunshee, 22.

Council Minute. Domine Polhemlus asks for pecuniary assistance. Aid asked for
building a Church at Midwout, Long Island.

Tuesday the 9th of February (1655).

Before the Board appeared Domine Polhemlus, provisional preacher in the village
of Midwout, who asked pecuniary help producing a letter from the Honorable Gen-
eral, which read as follows:

Copy. His Honor the Fiscal will please to assist and accommodate during my
absence the bearer hereof, Domine Polhemlus, In some matters required by him,
with wampum and also five or six pounds of powder. Done at New Amsterdam,
the 15th of November, 1654. Signed P. Stuyvesant.

Being asked several times, how he might be accommodated and assisted now, he
answered he would ask for no more than the Honorable Council was willing to give.
The Council replied, that he had already received considerable sums and there was
still some to be paid for his account to the merchants. He answered, that he
would be satisfied to have thirty florins In wampum now. Their Honors directed
the Receiver to give him that amount If feasible.

At the request of the Commissaries of Midwout for assistance by the inhabitants
of Breukelen and Amesfoort in cutting and hewing timber to erect a building for
the exercise of divine service, for which they received the permission by a resolu-
tion of their Honors, the Director General and Council in 1654, it was, upon the
vote being taken, resolved that after the celebration of the Lord's Supper now at
hand, a committee of the High Council shall go there with Domine Megapolensis.

Done at Amsterdam in New Nctherland, date as above. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv.
311, 312.

Council Minute. Report of Domine Megapolensis on the
Building of a Chuech in Midwout, L. I.

2nd of March (1655).

Before the Board appeared the Reverend Domine Johannes Megapolensis, minis-
ter of the Gospel in the City of New Amsterdam In New Netherland, as representa-
tive of the Inhabitants of the village of Midwout, who showed, that the people of Mid-
wout had received from their Honors, the Director General and Council, permission
to erect a meeting house and make it in quarters for the preacher and that whereas
such a work must cost a considerable sum, the people of Midwout aforesaid have
asked the inhabitants of Breukelen and Amesfoort for assistance, promising to do
the same for them under similar circumstances; that the latter pretended to be
willing to contribute to the meeting house, but said In regard to the preacher's
quarters, that if the people of Midwout desired them, they could make them them-
selves. He requested directions as to what he should do and the Honorable High
Council replied, that the resolution of the 9th of February 1655 should be carried
out.

Done at New Amsterdam in New Netherland, date as above. — Col. Docs. N. Y.
xiv. 312.

1655

334 Ecclesiastical Records

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

1655, March 8th.

Rev. Herman Langelius in the Chair. XX. 315.
The report, in the name of the Classis, of the Rev. Lange-
lius, concerning the vnie of Rev. Polhemus.

1. On account, received nothing as yet; on loan, two hundred
guilders, (florins).

2. The request for the approbation (by the Directors) of Pol-
hemus, as minister in New Netherland. Thus far, no answer;
had heard certain rumors, to judge from the Classical record,
not found to his disadvantage.

3. William Yestens, Comforter of the Sick, and Schoolmaster
at Manhattan, requests by letter, as before, an increase of salary
on account of his burdensome family.

Correspondence from America.

1655, March 18th.

Rev. John Megapolensis to the Classis of Amsterdam.

Reverendissimi Domini, Fratres in Christo, Synergi obser-
vandi : —

I feel it my duty, to answer the letter of your Reverences,
dated the 11th of November, (1654.)

We have cause to be grateful to the Lords-Directors and to
your Reverences for the care and trouble taken to procure for
the Dutch on Long Island a good clergyman, even though it
has not yet resulted in anything. Meanwhile, God has lead
Domine Joannes Polhemius from Brazil, over the Carribean
Islands, to this place. He has for the present gone to Long
Island, to a village called Midwout, which is somewhat the Medi-
tullium of the other villages, to wit, Breuckelen, Amersfoort
and Gravesend. There he has preached for the accommodation

OF THE State of !N^ew York. 335

1665

of the inhabitants on Sundays during the winter, and has ad-
ministered the sacraments, to the satisfaction of all, as Director
Stuyvesant has undoubtedly infonued the Lords-Directors.

As to William Vestiens, who has been schoolmaster and sex-
ton here, I could neither do much, nor say much, in his favor,
to the Council, because for some years past they were not satis-
fied or pleased with his services. Thereupon when he asked for
an increase of salary last year, he received the answer, that if
the service did not suit him, he might ask for his discharge.
Only lately I have been before the Council on his account, and
spoken about it, in consequence of your letter, but they told me
that he had fulfilled his duties only so-so (taliter qualiter) and
that he did little enough for his salary. Some Jews came from
Holland last summer, in order to trade. Later a few Jews came
upon the same ship as De Polheymius; they were healthy, but
poor. It would have been proper, that they should have been,
supported by their owti people, but they have been at our charge,
so that we have had to spend several hundred guilders for their
support. They came several times to my house, weeping and be-
moaning their misery. If I directed them to the Jewish mer-
chants, they said, that they would not even lend them a few sti-
vers. Some more have come from Holland this spring. They
report that still more of the same lot would follow, and then they
would build here a synagogue. This causes among the congre-
gation here a great deal of complaint and murmuring. These
people, have no other God than the unrighteous Mammon, and no
other aim than to get possession of christian proi>erty, and to
win all other merchants by drawing all trade towards themselves.
Therefore we request your Reverences to obtain from the Lords-
Directors, that these godless rascals, who are of no benefit to the
country, but look at everything for their o\\'n profit, may be sent
away from here. For as we have here Papists, Mennonites and
Lutherans among the Dutch ; also many Puritans or Independents,
and many Atheists and various other servants of Baal among the

1655

336 Ecclesiastical Records

English under this Government, who conceal themselves under
the name of Christians; it would create a still greater confusion^
if the obstinate and immovable Jews came to settle here. Closing
I commend your Reverences with your families to the protection
of God, who will bless us and all of you in the service of the di-
vine word.

Your obedient

Johan. Megapolensis.

Amsterdam in jSTew Xetherland the 18th of March, 1655.

Addressed to the Reverend, Pious and very Learned Deputies ad
res Ecclesiasticas Indicas, in the Classis of Amsterdam.

Polhemus.

1655, Mar. 22nd.

The Rev. Deputies report that they have secured for the wife
of the Rev. Polhemus assistance from the Directors of the West
India Company, to the amount of one hundred guilders, not on
salary, but as a loan. But with respect to the approbation of the
call of Rev. Polhemus, they had received answer, that that mat-
ter was not so urgent; that they had also learned something dam-
aging to him, and therefore requested the Rev. Deputies to as-
certain if aught of this had been brought before the Classis.
XXYI. 1Y7.

(Vol. xxvi. is the first of the volumes of the Correspondence;
but contains, at first, sometimes, a few items of the Acts of the
Deputies.)

Harmanus Van Hoboocken.

1655, March 23.

Whereas, William Vestiens, Chorister and Schoolmaster of this
city (New Amsterdam) has earnestly and repeatedly sought per-
mission to return to the Eatherland, his request is hereby granted.
Therefore the Honorable gentlemen of the High Council, with the
consent of the Rev. Consistory of this city, have appointed Har-
manus Van Hoboocken as Chorister and Schoolmaster of this city

Asropt, LEtnx a-:d

TILDEN FOU.-^DATIONS

OF THE State of ISTew York. 337

1655

at thirt;}' '^\e guilders per month, and one hundred guilders extra,
per year, for expenses. He promises to conduct himself diligently
and faithfully according to the instructions given, or which may
be given him hereafter.

Nicasius De Sille.

Done in Amsterdam, in 'New Netherlands, March 23, 1655.^ —
Dunshee's School, 23.

Affairs of Rev. Polhemius.

1655, March 23rd.

The Rev. Deputies report that they have secured aid for the
"wife of Rev. Polhemius so far that she has been assisted by the
Directors of the West India Company to the amount of one hun-
dred guilders, not on account of his salary, but as a loan. In re-
gard to the approval of (the call on) Rev. Polhemius, they (the
Deputies) had been answered that this matter needed no great
haste; that they had learned of something detrimental to him, and
to this end (the Directors) requested that Rev. Deputies would
inquire if anything of that nature had come to the knowledge of
the Classis. v. 367.

Polhemius.

1655, April 5th.

The wife of Rev. Polhemius makes known to the meeting, that
her husband had requested in letters, that she, with her children,
should come to him to New Netherland. Having arrived there,
he had great hope of being called to the service of a church in
that locality. She requested the advice of this Assembly as to
what she should do in the premises. Whereupon the Rev. Depu-
tati ad causas, reported that the Messrs. Directors of the West
India Company had written to the Governor asking his position,
in reference to this call. To this inquiry no answer had yet come.
Therefore this Assembly cannot yet advise her to address herself
to that journey, until further information is received. And
22

1655

338 Ecclesiastical Records

whereas, in the meantime, she and her four children are plunged
(lit. stuck fast) in the utmost poverty, it was resolved that the
Deputies shall do their utmost to obtain something for her sup-
port from the Worthy Directors. The Classis assigned for her
immediate need the sum of a hundred guilders. — v. 371; xix. 1.

Director in Holland to Stijyvesant : Jews :

26th of April 1655.
Honorable, Prudent, Pious, Dear, Faithful:

We would have lilted to agree to your wishes and request, that the new territories
should not be further invaded by people of the Jewish race, for we foresee from
such immigration the same difficulties, which you fear; but after having further
weighed and considered this matter, we observe, that it would be unreasonable and
unfair, especially because of the considerable loss, sustained by the Jews In the .
taking of Brasil and also because of the large amount of capital, which they have
invested in shares of this Company. After many consultations we have decided and
resolved upon a certain petition made by said Portuguese Jews, that they shall
have permission to sail to and trade in New Netherland and to live and remain
there, provided the poor among them shall not become a burden to the Company or
the community, but be supported by their own nation. You will govern yourself
accordingly.

The preacher Polhemus, arrived there from Brasil, has informed us by letter of
his willingness to remain in New Netherland and take charge of the congregation
at Midwout. If you think he is wanted there and the said Polhemius is found to
lead an irreproachable life, we have no objection to his becoming minister there
provisionally and until our further order at a salary already provided for by the
congregation, without becoming a burden to the Company. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv.
315, 317.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

William Vestiens.

1655, June 14th.

William Vestiens, returning home, from E'ew Netherland, and
having been a Visitor of the Sick there, asks that he may be sent
in the same capacity to the East Indies. His church credentials
having been read, his request is recommended to the Deputies ad
res Indicas. Also his request of the Messrs. Directors of the
West India Company, that he may receive some recognition for
the services of sexton, done by him for some time, (is recom-
mended.) — V. 378.

OF THE State of New Yoke. 339

Okder on a Petition of the Magistrates of Midwout and
Amesfoort for Assistance in Maintaining Their Minister.

Tuesday, 15th of June, 1655.

After reading the petition of the Magistrates of Midwout and Amesfoort showing
that for the accommodation of Domlne Polhemius, their present Minister, they had
erected a convenient dwelling and also allotted to him a parcel of land and asking
that, as they were still very poor, they might receive assistance by voluntary con-
tributions.

It was resolved to consider the petitioners' request, when the building is com-
pleted, the land fenced in and the account of expenditures for the same presented
to the Council. Date as above. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 327.

Synod of North Holland, at Edam.

1655, Aug. 17 et seq.

Art. 42. Rev. Polhemius and his wife.

Regarding Article 48, treating of Rev. Polhemius and his wife :
The Rev. Deputati relate that after many difficulties he had ar-
rived in New Netherland, and had been recommended by them
and by the Deputies of Amsterdam to the Messrs. Directors (of
the West India Company), so that, so far as they could effect it,
he be employed in the Sacred Ministry there. They had also prom-
ised to make inquiries about him, and to aid as much as possible
towards his employment. They also made known to the said Di-
rectors the distress of his wife, who is now^ at xA.mstcrdam. She
asks for the arrears of her husband's salary, but could obtain
nothing; except that one hundred guilders had been given her
by them. All the Classes also have done their part, except Haar-
lem, which remained in statu, because they had not heard about
her. Regarding the church of Moordrecht, Edam excuses itself;
Hoorn has done its share; the other Classes remain in statu.

1655

340 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

Kesolution" to Exempt the Jews from Military Service.

August 28, 1655.

The Captains and officers of the trainbands of this City having asked the Director
General and Council, whether the Jewish people, who reside in this City, should
also train and mount guard with the Citizens* bands, this was taken in considera-
tion and deliberated upon: first the disgust and unwillingness of these trainbands
to be fellow-soldiers with the aforesaid nation and to be on guard with them in
the same guard house and on the other side, that the said nation was not admitted
or counted among the citizens, as regards trainbands or common citizens' guards
neither in the illustrious City of Amsterdam nor (to our knowledge) in any city in
Netherland; but in order that the said nation may honestly be taxed for their free-
dom in that respect, it is directed by the Director General and Council, to prevent
further discontent, that the aforesaid nation shall, according to the usages of the
renowned City of Amsterdam, remain exempt from the general training and guard
duty, on condition that each male person over sixteen and under sixty years con-
tribute for the aforesaid freedom towards the relief of the general municipal taxes
sixty five stivers* every month and the military council of the citizens is hereby
authorized and charged to carry this into effect until our further orders and to
collect pursuant to the above the aforesaid contribution once in every month and
in case of refusal to collect it by legal process. Thus done in Council at Fort Am-
sterdam, on the day as above. (It was signed).

P. Stuyvesant,
Nicasius De Sille,
Cornelis Von Tienhoven.
— Col. Docs. N. Y. xll. 96.

Expulsion of Swedish Ministers from Delaware.

1655, Sept. 25.

Immediately after the surrender of Fort Christina, Stuyvesant offered, in compli-
ance with hia instructions, to restore the place to Rysingh, on honorable and fair
conditions, and made him, accordingly, a tender of the keys, but these the Swede
refused. The matter was no longer within his province, and he preferred to abide
by the capitulation. A proclamation was, thereupon. Issued, ordering all who
wished to remain in the country to take the oath of allegiance. Twenty persons
gave in their adhesion. Two out of three of the Swedish clergymen, then on the
river, were summarily expelled the country; the third was saved from similar 11!
treatment solely by intelligence that the Manhattans and adjoining settlements were
a prey to all the horrors of an Indian foray. — O'Callaghan's History of New Nether-
land, Vol. li., 289.

Eather Le Moyne AT Beverwyck.

1655, September.
Shortly after the installation of the new Vice Director [John de Decker,] Father
Le Moyne took occasion to pay his respects to the Dutch at Beverwyck. He was
received with much respect by the Hollanders; and the Mohawks whom he visited
for the purpose of concluding a treaty, on the part of the French, evinced more
than ordinary gratification at seeing him. But the Father had not well left the
country when a body of one hundred of these Indians presented themselves at Fort
Orange. They were on the eve of setting forth on a war excursion against the
Canada Indians, and fearing " that the French had poisoned the ears of their Dutch
brothers against them," now asked the latter to remain neuter. — O'Callaghan's
History of New Netherland, Vol. ii., 306.

• One stiver — Two cents.

OF THE State of New Yoek. 341

Court Minutes of New Amsterdam.

1655, Oct. 11th.
For the greater security of the City of Amsterdam, there was a large voluntary
subscription and taxation. In this list, which covers five and a half pages, and
which represents, in some sense, the aliiiity of the several inhabitants, we find the
foiiowing: —

Peter Stuyvesant fl. 150.

Domlne Megapolensis, 50.

Domine Drisius, 50.

Cornelius Steenwycli, 100.

Isaac Kip, 20.

Hendrick Kip, 25.

Warner Wessels, 25.

Pieter Jacobszen Marius, 20.

The total amounted to six thousand three hundred and five florins or two thou-
sand five hundred and twenty-two dollars. — Records of New Amsterdam, 1. 366-375.

Religious Condition of New York, 1656.

" Until 1654 the ecclesiastical policy of the government of New Netherland had
not, practically, departed from that of the Fatherland, where, notwithstanding the
establishment of a National Reformed Church, we have seen that all other sects
were tolerated, and allowed the use of their several forms of worship. The West
India Company recognized the authority of the established Church of Holland over
their colonial possessions: and the specific care of the Transatlantic churches was
early entrusted, by the Synod of North Holland to the Classis of Amsterdam. By
that Body ail the colonial clergy were approved and commissioned. With its com-
mittee Ad res exteras, they maintained a constant correspondence. The Classis of
Amsterdam was, in fact, the Metropolitan of New Netherland. For more than a
century its ecclesiastical supremacy was affectionately acknowledged; and long after
the capitulation of the province to England, the power of ordination to the Min-
istry, in the American Branch of the Reformed Dutch Church, remained in the
governing Classis in Holland, or was exercised only by its special permission ".

" The clergymen commissioned by the Classis of Amsterdam were, of course, Cal-
viulsts. They were generally men of high scholarship and thoroughly theological
training; for the people, who at Leyden preferred a university to a fair, insisted
upon an educated ministry.

" The colonial clergy had much to do, and peculiar dlfiiculties to encounter. A
lax morality, produced by the system of government and the circumstances of the
province, undoubtedly prevailed among many of the New Netherland colonists. It
was difficult to administer the offices of religion to scattered farmers and Isolated
traders. It was still more difficult to teach the Word to the savages. Yet, Mega-
polensis, contemporaneously with Jogues, had attempted to Instruct the Mohawks
several years before Eliot had begun his missionary labors near Watortown aad
Dorchester. At Manhattan, too, the work was tried, but with very indllforont suc-
cess. The Dutch colonists themselves gladly listened to the Gospel which they had
heard in the Fatherland; and churches were built, partly by voluntary contributions
of the commonalties, at Manhattan, Beverwyck, and Midwout. To these churches
the country-people made toilsome journeys, to bring their children to baptism, to
hear the words of the preacher, and to join in that simple but majestic music which
they had first sung far across the sea, where the loud chorus overpowers the
diapasons of Haerlam and Amsterdam ". — Brodhead's N. Y. 1. 614-615.

" In the beginning of 1656, there were four Reformed Dutch Clergymen in New

"V-Netherland. Megapolensis and Drisius were colleagues at New Amsterdam; Schaats

Vninistered at Beverwyck; and Polhemus had the joint charge of Breuckelcn, Mid-

1655

1656

342 Ecclesiastical Records

wout and Amersfoort. Besides his regular services at New Amsterdam, Drisius
occasionally visited Staten Island, where a number of Vandois or Waldenses sooq
settled themselves; and his knowledge of the French language enabled him to preach
satisfactorily to these faithful men, who fled to Holland and to America from the
tyranny of their despotic sovereign. — Brodhead, i. GlS^v

Early in 1656, [March] Megapolensis and Drisius complained to the Director that
unqualified persons were preaching and holding conventicles at Middleburg, from
which nothing could be expected but discord, confusion, and disorder in Church
and State. Stuyvesant was himself a zealous son of the Church. He was an over
strict constructionist, and loved the display of arbitrary power. A proclamation,
assuming " to promote the glory of God, the increase of the Reformed religion, and
the peace and harmony of the Country ", soon appeared, forbidding preachers " not
having been called thereto by ecclesiastical or temporal authority ", from holding
conventicles not in harmony with the established religion as set forth by the Synod
of Dort, " and here, in this land, and in the Fatherland, and in other Reformed
Churches observed and followed ". Every unlicensed preacher who should violate
this ordinance was subjected to a penalty of one hundred pounds Flemish; and
every person who should attend such prohibited meetings became liable to a penalty
of twenty five pounds. The ordinance, however, expressly disclaimed " any preju-
dice to any patent heretofore given, any lording over the conscience, or any pro-
hibition of the reading of God's holy word, and the domestic praying and worship
of each one in his family ". — Brodhead's N. Y. i. 617.

Order o:n^ a Petition of the Clergy Against Conventicles
AND Preaching by" Unqualified Persons at Newtown, Long

INLAND.

January loth, 1656.

Present in Council their Honors, the Director General Petrus Stuyvesant, Messrs.
Nicasius de Sille and La Montague and the Fiscal Cornells van Tienhoven.

After having read the petition of the preachers of this City of Amsterdam,
hereafter following, the following order was made:

Concerning the conventicles and the assuming to teach the Gospel by unquali-
fied persons, placats shall be issued against them; as to the last, the petitioners
are requested to proceed to Middleburgh when convenient, to inquire with the
advice of the Magistrates and some of the best informed inhabitants for a person
fit to act as reader there: after which, their petition shall be taken into further
consideration. Done in Council, date as above.

P. Stuyvesant.
N. de Sille, La Montague.
To their Noble Honors, the Director General and Council of New
Copy. Netherland.

Show with due reverence the preachers in this City, that they have been in-
formed by several persons living at Middleburgh in this Province, that since the
removal and during the absence of Mr. Moore, lately preacher there, some in-
habitants of that place and unqualified persons have ventured to hold conventicles
and gatherings and assumed to teach the Gospel, from which nothing but quarrels,
confusion and disorders may be expected In Church and communalty not only in
that place, but also, by giving a bad example. In other places of this Province.

They request therefore, that some provision be made by your Honors' authority
and during Mr. Moore's absence some suitable person be appointed, who b.y reading
the Bible and some other e4ifying and orthodox work on Sunday would continue
among the Inhabitants the forms of religious worship, until your Honors should
make other provisions. Which doing etc.

Johannes Megapolensis
Samuel Drisius.
— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 336, 337.

OF THE State of Kew York. 343

Court Minutes of New Amsterdam.
'New Graveyard. Board of Churchinasters appointed.

1656, January 24.

Whereas the Honorable General has had It proposed to him, that It Is highly
necessary to divide the Old Graveyard, vphich is wholly in ruins, into lots to be
built upon, and to make another Graveyard south of the Fort, and to remove the
houses standing there, on a valuation, what resolution should be taken thereupon?*

The Burgomasters and Schepens decide on the

1st. That it is highly necessary to establish a Graveyard at another suitable
place, or to put it into good order where it now is: but that it is not, at present,
advisable to throw down the houses, south of the Fort and to locate it there. But
it was considered, that it would be better, west of the Fort, in the neighborhood
of the Windmill, where there is a good hill clear of timber.

2nd. Whereas the Church in the Fort is more and more out of repair, without
anything having been done to it, and the Honorable General is at present the only
Churchmaster; if it be not advisable that a new Churchmaster be appointed and
the Honorable General discharged?

On the second was decided

That four persons be proposed by the Burgomasters to the Honorable General
and Council, to select and commission two therefrom as Churchmasters. — Records
of New Amsterdam, Vol. ii. pp. 24, 25.

Action of the Director and Council on Conventicles.

1656, Feb. 1.

The Director General and Council have been credibly informed,
that not only conventicles and meetings have been held here and
there in this Province, but also that unqualified persons presume
in such meetings to act as teachers, in interpreting and expound-
ing God's Holy Word, without ecclesiastical or secular authority.
This is contrary to the general rules, political and ecclesiastical
of our Fatherland; and besides, such gatherings lead to trouble,
heresies and schisms.

Therefore, to prevent this, the Director General and Council
strictly forbid all such public or private conventicles and meet-
ings, except the usual and authorized ones, where God's Word,
according to the Reformed and established custom, is preached
and taught in meetings held for the religious service of the Re-
formed Church, conformably to the Synod of Dort, which is to
.^ . «

* The Old Graveyard was on the West side of Broadway, a short distance north
of the present Morris Street. It covered one hundred feet square, and in 1G65, as
will appear in a later volume, It is represented as in a shamefully dilapidated
condition.

344 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

be followed here, as in the Fatherland, and in the other Eeformed
Churches of Europe ; under a fine of one hundred pounds Flemish,
($240.), to be paid by all who, in such public or private meet-
ings, except at the usual authorized gatherings on Sundays or
other days, presume to exercise, without due qualification, the
duties of a preacher, reader or chorister; and each man or woman,
married or unmarried, who is found at such a meeting, shall pay
a fine of twenty five pounds Flemish, ($60.)

The Director General and Council, however, do not hereby in-
tend to force the consciences of any, to the prejudice of formerly
given patents, or to forbid the preaching of God's Holy Word,
the use of Family Prayers, and divine services in the family ; but
only all public and private conventicles and gatherings, be they
in public or private houses, except the already mentioned usual,
and authorized religious services of the Eeformed. And that
this order may be the better observed, and nobody plead ignorance
thereof, the Director General and Council direct and charge their
Fiscal, and the inferior Magistrates and Schouts, to publish the
same everywhere in this Province, and to prosecute transgressors ;
inasmuch as we have so decreed this, for the honor of God, the
advancement of the Eeformed services, and the quiet, ' unity and
welfare of the country generally.

Thus done, etc., February 1, 1656.

ISTew Chtjech at Foet Oeange.

1656.

The church erected in 1643 had long since become inadequate to the accommoda-
tion of the community, and it had been determined in the course of the preceding
year to erect a new building. To assist this good worls, the Patroon and co-
directors subscribed, Feb. 18, one thousand guilders, or four hundred dollars, and
fffteen hundred guilders were appropriated from the fines imposed by the court
at Fort Orange. A site, at the junction of what is now State street and Broad-
way, was selected, and in the early part of the summer, Rutger Jacobsen, one of
the magistrates, laid the corner-stone of the sacred edifice, in the presence of the
authorities, both of the town and colonie, and of the assembled inhabitants, June 2.
A temporary pulpit was, at first, erected for the use of the minister, but the
settlers subscribed twenty five beavers to purchase a more splendid one in Holland.
The Chamber at Amsterdam added seventy five guilders to this sum, for " the
beavers were greatly damaged; " and " with a view to Inspire the congregation
with more ardent zeal," presented them in the course of the next year with a
bell " to adorn their newly constructed little church." — O'Callaghau's History of
New Netherland, Vol. ii., 307.

OF THE State of Xew York. 34

165G

Petition of the IIagisteates of Midwottt and Amesfoort
FOR Authority to Take up a Collection for the Support
OF Their Minister.

Tuesday, 15th of February, 1656.
Copy.
To the Noble, Very Worshipful, their Honors the Director General and High
Council of New Netherland.

Show with due respect and reverence the Magistrates of Midwout and Amesfoort
upon Long Island in New Netherland, that they have adopted a resolution for the
common welfare, as they think, to tal<e up a voluntary collection In the villages of
Breuckelen, Midwout and Amesfoort and depending places for the support of a
Minister or teacher, to which they believe many are willing to contribute; but as
they have no authority to do it without having first Informed their Noble Worships
the Council of New Netherland, the aforesaid Magistrates request hereto your
Worships' approbation and favorable order, that they may carry out their well
meant project and resolution; the Magistrates aforesaid engaging themselves to
give to your Worships or to your Worships' delegates a full and true account and
statement of the moneys received, if it is necessary and they are called upon to
do so. Which doing etc.

The Magistrates of Midwout, Amesfoort and adjacent places.

By their order

Peter Tonnenian as Secretary.

Done 8th of February 1656.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 337.

Court Minutes of I^ew Amsterdam.
Harmen van Hoboocken, Schoolmaster.

1656, February 21.

Endorsement on the petition of Harmen van Hooboocken, Schoolmaster. The
Schout having exhibited, in conformity to instructions from the Honorable Di-
rector General and Council, the request of the Schoolmaster, Harmen van
Hooboocken, in Court, they endorsed — Said Schoolmaster shall communicate to
the Burgomasters and Schepens, what he is allowed for each child per quarter,
pursuant to instructions from the General and Council, which being done, further
order shall be taken on petitioner's request. — Records of New Amsterdam, Vol. il.
p. 39.

Petition of the Magistrates of Brooklyn, that the Min-
ister OF Midwout Preach Alternately in Brooklyn.

, February 25, 1656.

To their Honors the Director General and Council of New Netherland.

Show with due reverence the Committee of the Schepens of the village of
Breuckelen and depending places, that they have learned and see, that the people
of Midwout, belonging in their, the petitioners', jurisdiction, are going about tak-
ing subscriptions or a collection for the support of the Minister in tlie said village
of Midwout; and as the Rev. Domine Johannes I'olhemius is performing the duties
of his charge only at Midwout, the inhabitants of Breuckelen and adjacent places
are disinclined to subscribe or promise anytliing for the support of a minister,
whose services they do (not) enjoy. The petitioners therefore respectfully request,
that the said Domine Johannes Polhemius ofliciate for the present alternately at

1656

346 ' Ecclesiastical Records

Midwout and Breuckelen (which he appears willing to do); then they are willing
to contribute to his support according to their means; or else that they and the
inhabitants of Breuckelen and the adjacent places may be excused from con-
tributing to the support of a Minister, whose services do not benefit them.
Awaiting your Honors' favorable decision we are and remain,

Your Honors obedient servants

Joris Dircksen,
Albert Cornelissen,
The mark X of Joresey Rapailje.

The foregoing petition having been read in Council and a vote taken thereon, It
was resolved to decide as follows:

The Director General and Council of New Netherland have no objection against
Domine Johannes Polhemius officiating alternately at both places, wind and weather
permitting.

Done in Council, date as above. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 338.

Court Minutes of New Amsterdam.
Cliurchmasters.

1656, February 28.

To the Honorable Director General and Council of New Netherland residing In
Fort Amsterdam.

The Burgomasters of this City of Amsterdam respectfully represent, that the
Church requires some necessary repairs; and whereas some Churchmasters have
either left or died, therefore the Honorable Director General is requested in his
capacity, to attend to the said Church; in order, however, to relieve the Honorable
Director General of trouble, and to forward the repairs of the Church, the Burgo-
masters respectfully request, that your Honors would be pleased to appoint Church-
masters.

Endorsement.

The Heer Nicasius d' Silla and Govert Loockermans are elected for this year

Churchmasters, to enter on first of March of this year. Dated xii Feb. 1656.

Amsterdam in New Netherland. Was subscribed.

P. Stuyvesant.

By order of the Honorable Director and General and Supreme Council of New
Netherland.

Signed C. v. Ruyven, Secretary.

— Records of New Amsterdam, Vol. li, pp. 50, 51.

Council Minute. Application from the Magistrates of Mid-
wout for Assistance to Pay" Their Minister, and Answer
of the Council.

The Schepens of the village of Midwout appeared before the Council and
demonstrated, that the subscription obtained for the support of their present
Minister Domine Johannes Polhemius amounting to six hundred guilders was only
a voluntary contribution and that they could not rely upon it every year, as the
inhabitants of the said village, who had settled there only lately and were still
without means, would find it a heavy tax and burden upon themselves to con-
ti'ibute so much every year. Now as the said Domine had requested, that they
should not only pay him the arrears, but also give him henceforth a fixed salary
or else he would remove as soon as an opportunity offered, they ask for advice,
what to do and how much the Director General and Council would contribute for
the minister's support in the name of the Honorable Company.

OF THE State of New York. 347

The answer of Director General and Council is: They authorize the said
Schepens to make a contract with the said Domine Polhemius, provided that they
take care to fulfill the engagements they make and collect the means thereto from
the community, as the Company has had many and heavy expenses for years,
without receiving any assistance. Besides seven hundred guilders have already
been advanced to the said Domine Polhemius for account of the Company during
the eighteen months of his residence here and considering the present troubles and
scarcity of funds in the Company's treasury, they cannot promise or consent to
do so in the future. This may serve for their government. Date as above (March
28, 1656).— Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 345.

Council, Minute Resolution to Offer fob

Sale the House and Lot Called the Old Church, on the
East River, New Amsterdam

i April 4th, 1656.

1650

Resolved, that on Saturday, the 8th of April, the house, lot and buildings thereon
called the Old Church and formerly tenanted by Captain Newton, situate and
lying on the East River in the alley running between it and Fiscal Tlenhoven's
house, opposite the house of Sr. Hendrick Kip be sold at public auction to the
highest bidder.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 346.

Classis of Amsterdam.

1656, April 18th.

Acts of the Deputies. Rev. Heydanus in the Chair.

Rev. Langelius presented a little catechetical book, (written
by Rev. Mr. Megapolensis), for revision and printing. The Rev.
Meeting approved the reading of the book, but did not take the
indorsement of it upon themselves, but referred it to the Classis.
— XX. 353.

Catechism Book of Rev. J. Megapolensis.

1656, May 1st.

The Deputati ad causas Indicas reported, that there had come
to their hands a certain little Catechism Book, which had been
heretofore prepared and published by Rev. John Megapolensis,
minister in New Netherland, at (New) Amsterdam, and which
it is sought, to reprint. The Assembly thinks it advisable that
an effort be made to prevent this undertaking. Therefore the
Deputati ad res Indicas shall wait upon the Directors in reference
to this matter; shall write to the same effect, in a friendly man-

1656

348 Ecclesiastical Records

ner, to the Rev. Brethren in New lietherland, requesting them
to be kind enough to maintain henceforth in this, and in all other
matters that come up, good and christianlike correspondence,
such as has been customary hitherto, vi. 13 ; xix. 13.

Acts of the Deputies and their Correspondence. 1656, May 12.

The Classis of Amsterdam to Rev. Consistory in Xew Nether-
land. XX. 357-360.

May 26, 1656.

Reverend, Godly, Wise and Learned Brethren: —

For some time past we have been learning with much satisfac-
tion, through the verbal statements of many who came to us from
New Netherland, that the church there, although small, is in a
good and peaceful condition; also that the extension of Christ's
Kingdom among the blind heathen is taken to heart, although
not accompanied with that success that could be wished. -While
we give thanks to the Almighty for his grace, and commend the
zeal of the brethren, we would have preferred to learn the situa-
tion of the church from letters of your o^vn, especially in matters
of importance. But no letters from you have come to hand since
your last, under date of October 6, 1653. After the receipt of
that letter, we wrote to you in two letters, dated respectively
February 26 and November 11, 1654, what efforts had been
made by the Hon. Directors, and ^\'ith what good results. Since
then either you have not written, or else our letters did not come
to your hands. From this we conclude that the Lutherans must
have abandoned their intention of procuring a minister of their
persuasion. Our Rev. Classis, indeed, looked upon this matter
as an affair of great consequence; for the Mennonists and English
Independents, of whom there is said to be not a few there, might
have been led to undertake the same thing in their turn, and
would probably have attempted to introduce public gatherings.
In fact we are informed that even the Jews have made request
of the Hon. Governor, and have also attempted in that country

OF THE State or ISTew Yoek. 349

1656

to erect a synagogue for the exercise of their blasphemous religion.
Out of all these things, indeed, there would have arisen a very
Babel. One cannot contemplate, without great emotion of soul,
how greatly a pastor's labor would have been increased under
such circumstances, and beset with obstacles, and what difficulties
would have arisen to interfere with their good and holy efforts
for the extension of the cause of Christ. The Hon. Directors
appear to have acted in this matter in a very Christian manner.
Let us then — we here in this country and you there — employ
all diligence to frustrate all such plans, that the wolves may be
warded off from the tender lambs of Christ.

There came to hand lately a certain catechism drawm up by
Kev. John Megapolensis, with request for our approval, and that
it be prepared for printing. The Rev. Classis resolved, in con-
formity with their action of January 30, 1651, in reference to
this and like matters, that although the diligence of his Rever-
ence is to be commended, yet that it is inadvisable to permit the
printing, much more the introduction of the same for the instruc-
tion of youth. Such a course Avould war against the general
order and usacre of our church, both in this coimtrv and in distant
churches, planted by and dependent on us. In these churches
no other catechisms besides the Heidelberg and the Compendium
of the same, called the Short Inquiry, is in use in the catechetical
sermons, catechetical classes and schools.

Dear Brethren, the general Formula, the doctrines which are
good, tried, and established by long practice, to which old and
young have everywhere become accustomed, and which have been
used with much edification, should not be lightly changed. Hence
also this matter belongs to the order and laws of the jSTational
Synod, and which no Particular Synod, much less a Classis or
Consistory, may alter. We leave it to your own forecast to
decide, whether other churches, should such a practice be per-
mitted, would not likewise assume the same liberty, and not only
use other catechisms, but different ones at different times in the

350 Ecclesiastical Records

1656

same place? I^either would this liberty be limited to this one
matter of the Catechism. It would also extend to other matters,
either of a similar or of a different nature. Out of this, what
sad disputes, schisms, and all manner of confusions, would arise.
Beloved, let us ever maintain unity, not only in the doctrine of
truth, but also in the Formula of the same, as well as in those
things which pertain to Order. Thus will the unity of the spirit,
in the bond of peace, be promoted.

We wrote you on JSTovember 11, 1654, concerning the proposal
of sending a minister to Long Island. As we understand it, he
was to receive six hundred guilders salary, by voluntary contri-
butions of the inhabitants, who would bind themselves to furnish,
each one, his share. We have indeed looked about for such a
good minister, but the proposed sum of money was considered
altogether too moderate, especially since he had a pretty large
family. The Rev, Classis has therefore been unable to secure
anyone. The Rev. Brethren then requested that an effort be
made to raise the sum to twelve hundred or at least one thousand
guilders, but nothing subsequently was accomplished, so far as
we know. We have heard, however, that Rev. Mr. Polhemus has
undertaken the charge there, having come from Brazil. He lost
his charge there by reason of the sad failure of the Company.
We would like to know how this arrangement is working. Those
coming from that place, (Long Island), with whom we have con-
versed, tell us that there are not a few members of the church
there; and they also declare that his Reverence is recognized by
all as the regular minister; that he performs all the functions of
a pastor; and sometimes preaches at New Amsterdam, as well as
at Midwout, (Flatbush), and that his labors are appreciated, and
are not without fruit. We request, however, further informa-
tion about all these things.

As far as we are concerned, we have nothing against his Rev-
erence being and remaining pastor there according to (Church)
Order. The Rev. Mr. Polhemus has written to his wife that he

OF THE State of New York, 351

is inclined to remain there. He says that he can get along with
the salary, and will continue his labors there, and directs her and
the children to come over. We have not wished to dissuade her
from this journey to her husband, but have rather sought to help
her designs with the Hon. Directors. She is a very worthy
matron, and has a great desire to join her husband. She has
struggled along here in poverty and great straits, and has always
conducted herself modestly and piously.

We greatly desire, moreover, to learn how matters stand in
the church in Renselaerswyck on the south river; [this must be
a mistake in one word or the other. Either south river must
be read north river, or else New Amstel should be read in
place of Renselaerswyck] and if there be any other churches
thereabout; what schoolmasters are there, and what they are
doing ; what efforts towards the conversion of the heathen, whether
adults or children, are made, or ought to be made, or might be
made; in particular, what wants the Eev. Brethren would wish
to have supplied in the way of Catechisms and Compendiums.
Perhaps ere long, a wide door will open for the spread of the
Gospel among the heathen. To this end you and we should use
all diligence, trusting that our labor will not be in vain in the
Lord.

William Vestens, having come over to us, has, at his own

request, departed as Visitor of the Sick to the East Indies, with

the vessels which sailed in December last. Nothing else remain.-,

except our greeting and committing you to God. Signed this

26th of May, 1656, by
J. Heydamus.

Oasparus de Carpentier.

(Megapolensis. Polhemus.)

1656, June 13th.

Rev. Heydanus reports that he went to see the Messrs. Directors
of the West India Company, and made known to them the Reso-

1656

352 Ecclesiastical Recoeos

lution of Classis in regard to the Catechising-book of Kev. Mega-
polensis, -whicli re&olution suited them. Item: that the "wife
of Rev. Polhemus was pennitted to leave, to join her husband
on Long Island in New JSTetherland, and that aid was promised
her; and that she had received this to some extent. — xx. 357.

A letter written in the name of the Classis to the Eev. Con-
sistory in 'New IN'etherland, which will be delivered bj 'Rex.
Heydanus, and reads as follows :

See letter above dated May 26, 1656.— xx. 357-360.

DiEECTOKS TO Stuyvesant : Jews ; Lutherans ;

; . The 14th of June 1656.

Honorable, Vigorous, Pious, Dear, Faithful: We have seen and heard with dis-
pleasure, that against our orders of the 15th of February 1655, issued at the
request of the Jewish or Portuguese nation, you have forbidden them to trade to
Fort Orange and the South River; also the purchase of real estate, which is
granted to them without dilHculty here In this country; and we wish it had not-
been done and that you had obeyed our orders, which you must always execute
punctually and with more respect: Jews or Portuguese people however shall not
be employed in any public service, (to which neither are they admitted in this
city), nor allowed to have open retail shops; but they may quietly and peacefully
carry on their business as before, and exercise in all quietness their religion
within their houses, for which end they must without doubt endeavor to build
their houses close together in a convenient place on one or the other side of New
Amsterdam, — at their own choice — as they have done here.

We would also have been better pleased. If you had not published the placat
against the Lutherans, a copy of which you sent us, and committed them to
prison, for it has always been our intention, to treat them quietly and leniently.
Hereafter you will therefore not publish such or similar placats without our
knowledge, but you must pass it over quietly and let them have free religious
exercises In their houses.*

The wife of Domine Polhemius goes over in the ship " Gulden Otter"; we gave
her permission, as to all other private parties, to go there as cabin passengers, the
Company paying the fare for her and her children on condition, that the amount
shall be deducted from the salary earned by her husband in Brazil. — Col. Docs.
N. Y. xiv. 350, 351, 352. •

* This paragraph is also in the volumes of Classis of Amsterdam, Vol xx, 372-3.
It is found in many histories pertaining to New York, under several different
translations.

OF THK State of Xew York. 353

Papers Regarding the Dispute Between the Director-Gen-
eral. AND the PaTROON OF PeNSSELAERSWYCK AS TO THE PRIVI-
LEGES OF THE Latter,

1656, June 20.

Remonstrance made by Jean Baptist van Rensselaer, Director of the Colony of
Rensselaerswyck situate on the North River of New Netherland, to his Noble
Honor, General Petrus Stuyvesant and the High Council of New Netherland.

1656

As to the orders received by your Honors in regard to the tenths (tithes, for
Church support) from the bouweries in our Colony, that is altogether contrary to
the privileges, declared legal by the Honorable Company and the Assembly of the
xix, and also of the 6th Article of high and low jurisdiction. — Col. Docs. N. Y.
xiv. 355, 356.

Action on Van Rensselaer's Remonstrance, so far as tithes are concerned.

The remonstrance made by Jan Baptist van Rensselaer, who calles himself Di-
rector of the Colony of Rensselaerswyck on the North River of New Netherland,
to their Honors, General Petrus Stuyvesant and the Council of New Netherland,
was received and read.

Upon this we answer in the first place, that the Director General and Council
have no knowledge of his appointment as Director of the Colony etc., of which
nevertheless they ought to have been informed pursuant to the 9th and 28th
articles of the exemptions.

Inasmuch, however, as the remonstrant at the end of his protest shows the
burdens to be borne by the Patroons in supporting their servants and officers, in
which we suppose the officers of the Church are included, for whom apparently
the tithes are ordered to be gathered and set aside in the old testament, the
Director and Council provisionally and until further order consent In this point
to the prayer of the remonstrant so far, that this question of the tithes shall once
more be referred to our superiors in the Fatherland: save that an agreement be
made with him in regard to the tithes demanded for this year, principally in order
to meet possible exceptions made by others and if our superiors in the Fatherland
or arbitrators appointed by them decide, that neither the Colony of Rensselaers-
wyck nor any of its bouweries Is subject to tithing, then the Director General
and Council engage to refund the sums agreed upon as tithes. 1656, June 27. —
Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 359. See 435.

Order in Favor of the Waldenses.

165G, June 30.

Burgomasters and Regents of Amsterdam, hereby authorize the
Commissioners of the Exchange Bank in the said city, to give
and pay to Mr. John van Berckel, Receiver-General of Holland
and West Friesland, the sum of seventeen thousand, five hundred
and sixty six guilders, eleven stivers and eight pence, say
fl. 17,566 :11 :8, which sum, on producing receipt therefor, shall
be allowed said Commissioners in rendering their account of the
moneys collected within this city for and on the behalf of the Wal-
denses. Done the 30th June, 1656.— Col. Docs. K Y. i. 618.
23

1656

354 Ecclesiastical Records

Waldenses and Huguenots emigrate to the South River, 1656-
1663. Population, 1664.

In 1656 and 1663 a large body of Waldenses and other colonists, with some
orphans, were sent to the South River by the City of Amsterdam; and a consider-
able number of Huguenots, originally from Rochelle, arrived in the country in the
course of the latter year, in addition to those who, for similar reasons, had already
emigrated from Savoy and settled on Staten Island.

From these and natural causes the population of the province quintupled in
seventeen years. At the commencement of Stuyvesant's administration, the num-
ber of persons capable of bearing arms is stated to have been between two hun-
dred and fifty and three hundred, in and around the capital. Including Rensselaers-
wyck, this would give a population of two thousand souls. In 1664, the number
is estimated at " full ten thousand." New Amsterdam contained, in 1656, when
first surveyed by Capt. de Koninck, one hundred and twenty houses, and one
thousand souls. The former increased In 1660, when a map of the capital was
made, to over three hundred and fifty, whilst the population augmented, in 1664,
to fifteen hundred. Of these, not quite two hundred and fifty were male adults;
the balance, between twelve and thirteen hundred, consisted of women, and chil-
dren below eighteen years of age. — O'Callaghan's History of New Netherland, Vol.
ii., 540.

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

1656, July 10th.
Rev. Mr. Schoonhovius in the Chair.

Since it is understood that the Lutherans have again requested
of the Directors here the privilege of the puhlic exercise of their
religion in New ISTetherland, in conformity with the custom in this
country; and since this has heen granted to them there, as well
as to all other sects, even' as it is in this country; therefore the
Rev. Meeting has resolved to make this fact known to the Rev.
Classis. — XX. 361.

Lutheran Worship in New Netherland.

1656, Aug. 7th.

The Deputati ad res Indicas made known to the Rev. Classis
that they had learned that the Directors of the West India Com-
pany had given consent to the public exercise of the Lutheran
Religion (worship) in New Netherland. The Rev. Classis is
grieved thereat, and finds it necessary at the earliest opportunity,
even this very day, to wait upon the Directors in regard to this
matter. Having learned from them the exact (entire) situation

OF THE State of Xew Yokk. 355

of affairs they will take such, further action to-morrow as the
case may demand. — vi. 20; xix. 14.

Lutheran Worship in New Netherland.

1656, Aug. 8th.

As regards the permission of public Lutheran Worship in New
Netherland, the Brethren the committee ad causas Indicas report,
that they had spoken thereupon with some of the Directors. They
said that they knew not of any such complete toleration of the
Lutherans there, but neither did they know what more there might
be of such designs. The Kev. Classis finds it advisable and re-
solves that this matter be more carefully watched and inquired
into, and, if possible prevented, vi. 25, 26. — xix. 15.

Court ^Mixutes of New Amsterdam. — The Old Church Lot.

1656, August 15.

Pleter Jacobsen Marius appears in Court requesting that the Bailiff be authorized
to levy execution on the judgement against Jacob van Couwenhoven, inasmuch as
he, otherwise knows not when he shall obtain his own. Whereupon, J. v. Couwen-
hoven being called into Court, appearing requested, as he was an old Burgher, that
execution may not yet be proceeded with; saying that he had already given the
deed of his house and lot on the Strand* to the Bailiff to be sold, as security.

Synod of North Holland, at Alckmaee. ' ~ ^

1656, Aug. 15 et seq.
Article 32.

Preachers recently ordained for the service of the Churches in
the East Indie&r

In New Netherland the ministers are as follows :* At New
Amsterdam, Eev. John Megapolensis, Kev. Samuel Drisius; At

Rensselaerswyck, Eev. Gideon Schaats.

I — ..^ ^ _____^

• This was first known as the " Old Churoh Lot ", — a wooden ohtirch having been
built on it as early as 16,33. It was situate on the North side of the present Pearl
St., about sixty or eighty feet East of WliitdiMll. The lot together with the old
Church having been purchased by .Tacoli AN'oliiliciiscn van Couwenhoven April 8,
1656, was confirmed to him by patent of J\nic 'Mk s;ime year, and pursuant to the
order in this case again sold, Isaac de Foreest becoming the purchaser September
8, 1656. The latter, having built on the lot a house, " which Is an ornament to the
City," obtained in 1664 the grant of the lane adjoining to build a woodshed etc.
Calendar of Dutch MSS., p. :».'{; Valentine, Manual, 1861, p. 589. It subsequently
became the property of Allard Anthony. — Records of New Amsterdam, VoL 11.
pp. 153, 154.

• It will be noticed that the name of Rev. J. T. Polhemus is not mentioned, al-
though he had been officiating on Long Island for two years, but only In an In-
formal way.

1656

356 Ecclesiastical Records

Dbaft of Conditions Offered by City of Amsterdam to
Emigrants, to the South (Delaware) River.

1656.

As to Religion:

* * *

7. Said City (of Amsterdam) shall cause to be erected about the Market or in a
more convenient place, a public building suitable for Divine service; item, also a
house for a School which can liiiCwise be occupied by the person who will hereafter
be Sexton, Psalmsetter and Schoolmaster; the City shall, besides, have a house
built for the Minister.

8. The City aforesaid shall provisionally provide and pay the salary of a Minister
and Schoolmaster, unless their High Mightinesses or the Company think otherwise.

— Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 620.

Conditions Offered by the City of Amsterdam to Settlers
ON the Delaware River.

1656, Aug. 12.

7. The City of Amsterdam shall send thither a proper person for Schoolmaster,
who shall also read the Holy Scriptures and set the Psalms.

8. The City of Amsterdam shall provisionally and until further opportunity pro-
yide the salary of said Schoolmaster. — Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 631.

1656, August 2/12.

Resolution of the States General on these conditions. To be investigated. — Col.
Docs. N. Y. i. GS'l,

165G, August 6/16.

Report of the Committee of the States General on the same. — Col. Docs. N. Y. i.
636-7.

Their High Mightinesses have thanked the Committee for the trouble they have
taken, confirmed the report and ratified the agreement entered into respecting the
population. But when there are two hundred families or thereabouts, a preacher
and consistory shall be installed without any expense to the Company (generaliteit).

— Col. Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 637.

Ratification of Report by the States General,

1656, Aug. 16.

Which being considered, their High Mightinesses have thanked the Gentlemen of
the Committee for the trouble they have taken, and it is further Resolved and con-
cluded, hereby to approve and ratify the aforesaid agreement or conditions entered
into by the abovementioned Chamber with the Burgomasters of Amsterdam, all
nevertheless saving and without prejudice to the right, jurisdiction and possession
of the Colonies heretofore given out in the aforesaid countries and of the property
purchased in said district; with this understanding also, tliat whensoever there
«hall be in that place two hundred families or thereabouts, a preacher and con-
sistory shall be Installed there without any expense to the Company. And all this
saving also the division of the districts which may be made among the respective
Chambers. It is hereby recommended to the aforesaid Chamber at Amsterdam so
to moderate the public duties that the population there may be encouraged, aud not
obstructed.— Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 637.

OF THE State of Xew York. 357

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

New Netherland.

1656, Oct. 3rd.

In the matter of the Lutheran meeting in New Netherland, it
was reported in the Rev. Classis, that there was reason to appre-
hend that there, as well as in all the colonies pnblic worship bj
Lutherans would be permitted ; and whereas it haS' been deter-
mined to establish other rules and regulations, in which the Wor-
shipful Magistracy of Amsterdam shall have a hand ; that some
of the Noble Mightinesses (Officially of Amsterdam) together
with some Directors of the West India Company were delegated
for the particular purpose, that all sorts of persuasions might be
permitted to exercise their special forms of worship; The Kev.
Classis is grieved to learn of such a circumstance, and finds it
highly necessary to give careful heed to this matter. Therefore
the Directors and their Noble Mightinesses (the Officials of Am-
sterdam), and especially their committee on this subject, shall be
waited on, and the injuriousness of this general permission of all
sorts of persuasions shall be earnestly deprecated, stating that first
of all, and above all, the Church and the glory of God should be
cared for, etc. This matter remains recommended to the Deputies
ad causas Indicas. vi. 33 ; xix. 25.

Eesolution of the States General on Mr. van der Capelle's

Petition.

Wednesday, the 4th October, 1656.

Read at tlie meotinR a certain Remonstrance of J. Hendrlck van der Capelle to
Ryssel, Lord of Essel and Hasselt, Bnrgomaster of the City of Zutphen, Ordinary
Deputy in their High Mightinesses' Assembly, requesting that a Commission be
issued for a proper person of the Reformed Religion, which he would send as Com-
mander to his people of Staten Island in New Netherland, as was granted last year,
1655, to Messrs. Adriaen and Cornells Lampsins for the Island of Tobago and St.
Martin. Which being considered, it is resolved and concluded to refer the petition
aforesaid to the Directors of the West India Company here, for advice.

1666

1656

358 Ecc'i.F.siA.STiCAL Records

Resolution of the Assembly of the XIX. on Mr. van der Capelle's Petition. — Ex-
tract from the resolutions of the Committee of the respective Chamljers of the
Incorporated West India Company, representing the Assembly of the XIX.,
holden at the Hague.

Thursday, the 5th of October, 1656.
Read at the meeting a certain petition presented by Mr. Hendrick van der Capelle
thro Ryssel, Lord, etc., to their High Mightinesses, together with their High Mighti-
nesses' postll thereon, dated 4th of October, 1656, that the Directors in attendance,
from the respective Chambers representing the Assembly of the XIX., may furnish
their advice on the said opinion presented as above.

It is resolved and concluded, that the petition concerns exclusively the Chamber
of Amsterdam with which the said gentlemen hath specially contracted; that the
Directors of said Chamber in attendance are earnestly requested, as well out of
respect for the case as for his Honor, to bring this petition before the Chamber of
Amsterdam, and to second and recommend it, in the most favorable manner, which,
also, they have undertaken to do on the earliest opportunity. Agrees with the

(Signed) L. van Seventer, 16.36.

— Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 640.

Resolution of the States General.

Thursday, the 5th of October, 1656.
Read at the meeting a certain Resolution of the attending Committee of the
Directors of the West India Company representing the Assembly of the Nineteen
of this day's date, in substance that Mr. Van der Capelle to Ryssei's remonstrance
presented yesterday, to obtain a Commission for a Commander to be sent by him
to his people of Staten Island in New Netheland concerning exclusively the Chamber
of Amsterdam, with which that Gentleman had specially contracted, and conse-
quently they the Directors in attendance had earnestly requested said Chamber to
bring, out of respect for the case and his Honor's person, the petition before said
Chamber of Amsterdam and to recommend it most favorably; which they have
undertaken to do at the earliest opportunity. Whereupon no resolution is adopted.
— Col. Docs. N. Y. i. 641.

Court Minutes of I^ew Amsterdam.

Repairs of the Church.

1656, October 9.

Evert Duycking requests by petition to be informed, from whom he is to receive
payment for the glass, which he put In the Church for Schout, Burgomasters and
Schepens, demanding two and a half beavers for each. Whereupon the Court
decides, that petitioner shall go to each one, for whom the glass was, for his
payment either in trade or as he can agree for the same. — Records of New
Amsterdam, Vol. ii. p. 183.

Petition of the Lutherans to the Governor and Council,
TO BE Permitted to Enjoy Their Own Public Worshir,
Oct. 24, 1656.

To the ]^oble, Very Worshipful, the Honorable Director-General
and High Council of Kew Netherland:
"We the united adherents of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession

residing here in ISTew Netherland, with all respect, do show, that

OF THE State of jSTew York. 359

"we have obediently acted upon your Honors prohibitive order,
published by edict, and have not gathered anywhere to hold divine
services with reading and singing- ; nevertheless our friends in the
Fatherland, acting in our behalf, have petitioned the jSToble, Hon-
orable Lords Directors of the West India Company, our Patroons,
in reference to this matter. Upon their petition, they have ob-
tained from their Lordships, as they report to us, in a full meet-
ing, a resolution and decree that the doctrines of the Unaltered
Augsburg Confession should be tolerated in the West Indies and
TvTew ISTetherland under their jurisdiction, in the same manner
as in the Fatherland under its praiseworthy government.

We turn therefore to your Xoble Honors, your Worships, know-
ing us to be humble and obedient subjects, and pray, that hence-
forth we may not be hindered in our services. These with God's
blessing we intend to celebrate, with prayer, reading and singing,
until, as we hope and expect, a qualified person shall come next
spring from the Fatherland to be our minister and teacher, and
remain here as such. We are your Honors humble and faithful
subjects, who await your favorable answer.

Amsterdam in 'New ISTetherland
this 24th of October 1G5G.

Another translation in O'Callaghan, ii. 320.

After the question had been considered the followmg answer
was made:

This will be sent to tlie Lords Directors of the Privileged West
India Coiiii)any by the first ships, and llioir further orders' re-
quested. Meanwhile the Director-General and Council persist in
the above mentioned order and placat, issued and several times
renewed, against conventicles and public gatherings, except those
for the divine service of the here prevailing Reformed Church.
ISTeithcr the petitioners nor anybody else shall meanwhile suffer
for this belief, nor be prevented each in his family, from reading
prayers, thanksgivings and singing according to their faith.

1656

360 Ecclesiastical Records

Done at the meeting of the Director-General and Council, held
at Fort Amsterdam in New ISTetherland, the 24th of October 1656.

After comparison with the original petition and the order

thereon, this has been fonnd to agi'ee therewith.

Cornelius van Ruyven, Secretary.

8/8 1657.
Lutherans in Xew Netherland.

1656, mv. 7th.

The same Revs. Deputies did also report concerning their er-
rand and business with the Messrs. Directors of the West India
Company, as well as with the gentlemen appointed a committee
on behalf of the city of Amsterdam ; that having wished them
God's blessing in reference to this affair, they had spoken to them
about the Lutherans and others in New IsTetherland ; but from
all the circumstances, they could only learn that this affair is
still unsettled, and the settlement a good way off ; (lit. raw and far
to be sought.) That nothing may be neglected (wasted) in this
matter, the Rev. Brethren, the Deputies are enjoined to be vigi-
lant in every particular, vi. 39.

Court Minutes of New Amsterdam.

Harmen van Hoboocken. Rent Allowed for a School.

1656, November 7, [or Sept. 7?]

To the Honorable Lords Burgomasters and Schepens of the City of New Amster-
dam. Harmen van Hoboken, Schoolmaster of this City, respectfully requests that
your Honours would be pleased to grant him the hall and the side room for the
use of the school and as a dwelling, Inasmuch as he, the petitioner, does not know
how to manage for the proper accommodation of the children during winter, for
they much require a place adapted for fire and to be warmed, for which their
present tenement is wholly unfit. He, the petitioner, burthened with a wife and
children is greatly in need of a dwelling for them; and his wife is expected from
hour to hour to be confined, so that he anticipates great inconvenience, not know-
ing how to manage for the accommodation of the school children; and if your
Honors cannot find any, he, the petitioner, requests your Honors to be pleased to
allow him the rent of the back room which Geurt Coerten at present occupies,
which he, petitioner, would freely accept for the present, as he is unable to pay
so heavy a rent as a whole house amounts to. He therefore applies to your
Honours, expecting hereupon your Honors favorable endorsement. Was subscribed.

Your Honors Servant,

Harm: van Hoboken.*

• There is a place in the southwestern part of Holland called Hoboocken, and a
large Dutch family called by the name of Van Hoboocken. The name of this school-

OF THE State of ISTew York. 361

Dated 4 Nov. 1656.
Endorsement.

Whereas the City Hall of this City, the hall and little room whereof the peti-
tioner now requests for a school and dwelling, are not at present in repair, and
are, moreover, required for other purposes the same cannot be allowed him; but
in order that the youth, who are here quite ntimerous, may have the means of
instruction as far as possible and as the circumstances of the City permit, the
petitioner, for want of other lodgings, is allowed to rent the said house for a
school, for which one hundred guilders shall be paid him yearly on a/c of the City
for the present and until further order. Done in Court this 4th November 1656.
At Amsterdam in New Netherland.

Allard Anthony,
Oloff Stevenseu,
Jacob Strycker,
J. Vinje,
Will. Beeckman,
Hendrick Kip.
— Records of New Amsterdam, Vol. ii. pp. 219, 220. Abridged in Dunshee, 26.

Sentence of William Hallett, of Flushing, for Allowing

Baptist Conventicles in His House ; and of William

Wickendam for Officiating as Minister of the Gospel

AT Flushing.

[Nov. 8, 11; 1656.]

Whereas William Hallett, born in Dorsetshire, in England, about forty years old,
a resident of the village of Flushing, and now a prisoner, has had the audacity to
call and allow to be called conventicles and gatherings at his house, and to permit
there, in contemptuous disobedience of published and several times renewed placats
of the Director General and Council of New Netherland, an exegesis and inter-
pretation of God's Holy Word, as he confesses; the administration and service of
the sacraments by one William Wickendam, while the latter, as he ought to have
known, had neither by ecclesiastical nor secular authority been called or appointed
thereto; and whereas he with several others has been present at and listened to
this exegesis and interpretation and after hearing it has with others from the
hands of the said William Wickendam received the bread in the form and manner,
in which the sacrament of the Lord's Supper is usually celebrated and given; all
of which is in direct contradiction with the general political and ecclesiastical
rules of our Fatherland, and especially contrary to the said placats of the Di-
rector General and Council, which he as Schout in the aforesaid village was bound
to uphold and strictly enforce; which, however, he has not only failed to do, but
himself has trangressed and disobeyed.

Therefore the Director General and Council of the New Netherlands, in pur-
suance of the tenor of the said placats, first dismiss the said William Hallett from
his office as Schout in the said village of Vllssingen; and furthermore condemn him
to a double fine, to wit, fifty pounds Flemish, because being Schout and executive
officer, he should have prevented these proceedings and enforced the placats of the
Director General and Council; ho Is also banished from this Province of New
Netherland, and shall be detained In prison, until the said fine with the costs and
mises of law incurred in this case have been paid.

master naturally suggests the thought that the city of Hobokeu, N. J., obtained Its
name from him. But Winfield, in his history of Hudson County, N. J., claims for
It an Indian origin, especially since the deed to Michael Pauw, dated as earl.v as
July 12, 16;^0, for I'avonla describes the land as that which is called Hobocan-Hack-
ingh, and says Hobocan means a tobacco-pipe. — Winfield, 13-15.

1656

362 Ecclesiastical Records

Thus decreed and sentenced in Council of Director General and Council at Fort
Amsterdam in New Nettierland tlie 8th of November 1656.

Whereas William Wicliendam, a native of Oxfordshire In England, forty two
years old, now a prisoner, has had the audacity to call to and hold conventicles
and gatherings; and in disobedience of published and repeatedly renewed placats
of the Director General and Council of New Netherland has, as he himself con-
fesses, usurped the office of Minister of the Gospel in expounding and interpreting
God's Holy Word and administering and officiating in the Sacraments of Baptism
and the Lord's Supper, without being called or appointed thereto by any ecclesi-
astical rules of our Fatherland; and especially to the said placats of the Director
General and Council, expressly forbidding all such conventicles and gatherings,
public or private, except the usual meetings, which are not only lawfully permitted,
but also based upon God's Word and ordered for the service of God, if they are
held, conform to the Synod of Dort here, in our Fatherland and in other Churches
of the Reformed Faith in Europe.

Therefore the said William Wickendam, in pursuance of the said placats, is
condemned to a fine of one hundred pounds Flemish and is banished from this
Province of New Netherland; but to remain in prison, until the said fine with the
costs and mises of law, incurred in his case, shall have been paid.

Thus decreed and sentenced in Council, etc., the 8th of November 1656.

Whereas the Director General and Council have been credibly informed and told,
that the aforesaid William Wickendam is a very poor man with a wife and several
children, and a cobbler by trade, to which he does not properly attend, so that
nothing can be obtained from him.

Therefore the Director General and Council have remitted the aforesaid fine of
six hundred florins and allowed him to remove, on condition, that if he is caught
here again, he must pay it.

November 11th, 1656.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 369, 370.

Letter from Domine Polhemius to Director Stuyvesant ;
Complaining that His House is Kot Inhabitable.

Noble Sir, Honorable General in New Netherland.

1 am compelled to respectfully complain to your honor, that I must see the
planks, given by your honor out of compassion and presented to the community
here to finish my house against this cold winter, being taken and lost this way
or that; for instance two M-ere lost on the way here by having been left on the
beach in nobody's care: after having been brought into the village without my
knowledge, twenty four were delivered to Jan Eversen Meyer; six were put down
at the Church for benches; of the balance sixty nine were taken away with the
consent of Jan Snedicker and Jan Strycker; seventeen carried to Thomas Swart-
wout and his brother Aldert Swartwout to dry malt; so that my house remains
open as it was and I with my wife and children must live and sleep on the bare
ground and in the cold. They say, there is no carpenter here, that I should
procure one to have the work done. In order not to make my situation worse by
keeping silence, I write this to your Honor.

In haste.

Your Honor's obedient servant,

Joh. Th. Polheym.

Midwout, the 14th of December 1656.

To his Honor, General P. Stuy vesant, at New Amsterdam. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv.
370, 371.

OF THE State of Xew York. 3C»o

Extract from a Letter of the Directors to Stuyvesaxt :
Settlers to Dwell in Villages ; Delegations to New Eng-
land; Tenths; Eensselaerswyck; Revenues; Fkenchmen
Among the Indians.

1656

The report made to you there, that some Frenchmen with a Jesuit from Canada
have come into the country of the aforesaid Seunequons, and began to malse a
settlement there, was not agreeable news lo us, for it can only be to the disad-
vantage of our Province and the inhabitants. However we have not as yet deemed
It advisable to come to a final resolution in this matter, as being premature and
the matter perhaps of small consequence only, until we are better informed about
It; we desire you to make a close investigation and report the result of it to us.
while you must take care and make arrangements for the security of Fort Orange,
that no mishap befall us there.

We should have sent you, as requested by the inhabitants of Fort Orange and
Beverwyck, the little bell for their new church; also two others for the villages
of Hempstead and Midwout, but as they could not be found ready made and the
time for making them is too short, you will have to wait till the spring.

December 19, 1656.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 371, 374.

Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to the Magistrates of Mid-
wout About the Minister's House.

Honorable, Dear, Faithful. When la.st with you in Breuckelen at the house of
Albert Cornelissen it was agreed in parting, by mutual consent and approbation of
yourselves and the other delegates from the villages of Breuckelen and Amesfoort.
that you should together make an estimate of the funds, out of which the preacher.
Domine Polheym, was to be paid and placed above want and report it to us and
the Council within eight days. As this time has passed and we are not yet in
formed of the result, we have deemed it necessary to remind you of it through thi'
Schout and this open letter, that you fulfill your promise; else we shall lie com-
pelled by our official position and duties to take steps and give such orders and
provide for such means, that the Minister be duly paid and placed above want.
The said Domine I'olheym, who was tlien present, complained further of the un-
inhabitable state and inconvenience of his dwelling house, which has as yet neither
ceiling or waliiscotting, so that he and his family are compelled to sleep on the
floor. The winter being imminent, this la unlieaiable and improper, and in order
to remedy It we sent you for the ceiling and walnscottlng of the house one hun-
dred hemlock planks, which parties deputed by you received and carried to my
brother's-in-law Backer's house. I am however credlltly Informed now, that the
said boards have not been used for the purpose Intended by us, but that the Com
missaries dispose of thf>m privately according to tlieir pleasure; for Instance, so
I am told, twenty four have been given to the hired man of Jan Evertsen; six
ordered to be cut. up for benches, seventeen given by Jan Snedicker to the Swart
wouts, so that the boards dlsni)pear here and there, while nothing whatever is
done to finish the Minister's house, which is most urgent to do, the winter being
80 near at hand. We command therefore lierewlth, that the Ijoards be brought
together again upon receipt hereof, and put to tlieir proper use and to no other.

364 Ecclesiastical Records

as we have ordered. If you fail herein, we shall take proper measures: where-
upon relying, we commend you all with the usual greetings to God's protection,
and remain,

P. Stuyvesant.

Done at Amsterdam in New Netherland the 21st of December, 1656.— Col. Docs.
N. Y. sir. 376. i . . i

Petition of Domine Polhemius for an Advance of His Salary
TO Enable Him to Pay for a Parcel of Land.

To their Noble Honors, Petrus Stuyvesant, Director General and Council of New
Netherland: Shows with due reverence Johannes Theod. Polheym, preacher, that
he, the petitioner, has some time ago bought from Cornells Aerssen a parcel of
land lying in the village of Midwout, to better provide thereby for himself and his
family, hoping, when the time for payment came, to be in a condition to pay for
it: but as the petitioner has been disappointed in this hope, because his salary is
not paid as he expected, and as a payment of one hundred florins has become
due, the petitioner finds himself compelled, nay, forced to turn respectfully to your
Honors and to request, that your Honors will be pleased to pay for his account,
debiting the same for it, so much to Cornells Aerssen. Awaiting a favorable
decision he commends your Honors to God's protection and remain.

Your Honors servant.

Job. Th. Polheym.

December 21st, 1656.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 377.

Journal. — Of Brian ISTuton, Capt. Lieutenant ; Cornelis

VAN RUYVEN SeCRETAEY AND CaREL VAN BrUGGE CoMMISSARY,

Appointed by the Heer Director-General Stuy^vesant to
GO IN A Boat a Second Time to Oost-Dorp.

; Anno 1656, 29th December.

Having received our instructions from the Heer General we rowed out with the
boat of the Honorable Company's ship from before Fort Amsterdam on the 30
ditto, about seven o'clock in the morning to proceed on our Journey to Oostdorp,
accompanied by Claes Bordingh as pilot, as the Company's Skipper was never
through Hell-gate, and the Skipper of the Company's bark and a sailor to row us
thither.

On our arrival at John Lords we communicated to him the object of our Journey,
and requested him to have the Inhabitants summoned in the morning at daylight
by an Indian. He answered us — 'Tis our Sabbath morning; the Inhabitants will
not come. We asked him to learn the opinions of the principal settlers at once,
as we could explain our business in half an hour, without hindering their service.
Which he proceeded to do. But brought us for answer, No — that they were Id
no way so inclined. Although we would fain reach home by Sunday noon, we were
obliged to remain there until Monday, as they would not be prevailed on to
assemble on Sunday.

31st ditto. Sunday.

Went to examine the village somewhat. It is a very stony place, thickly covered
with trees. At noon were Invited to dine at Mr. Newmans. After dinner Corneljs
Tan Ruyven went to the house where they assemble on Sundays, to observe their
mode of worship, as they have not as yet any clergyman. There I found a gather-

OF THE State of I^ew York.

365

ing of about fifteen men ten or twelve women. Mr. Baly made a prayer, which
being concluded, one Robbert Basset read a sermon from a printed Book composed
and published by an English Minister in England. After the reading Mr. Baly
made another prayer and they sung a Psalm and separated. In the evening we
were invited to supper to Robbert Basset's, and having talien our leave we went
to sleep at John Lord's house: neither he nor any of the members of his family
came home this night, which much surprised us. — Doc. Hist. N. Y. iii. 557, 558.

1656

This first January Anno 1657: In east towne in the New Netherlands.

Wee hose hands are under writen do promes to oune the governor of the manatas
as our governor and obay all his magastrates and lawes that are made acordin to
god so long as we live in his Jurisdiction.

Robbert Basset

his
George X Reith

mark
John Finch
John Wilson
Richard Horton
Thomas Taylor

His
Hendrick X Cornelyssen

mark
Thamis Martin

Nick Lookerly
John Quimble
Josiah Gilber
Obodiah Gilbert
Jonathan Llockwood

his
Robert X Meacker
mark
his
Jeffrey X Fferris
mark
— Doc. Hist. N. Y. iii. 559.

Petition of the Magistrates of Midwout for Power to
Make an Assessment to Pay Their Minister, to Farm the
Excise, etc., and Order Thereon.

To their Noble Honors, Director General Petrus Stuyvesant and the Council of
New Netherland. Show with great humility and due respect the delegated Schepens
of the jurisdiction of Midwout, that pursuant to the resolution, adopted by the
Honorable Director General Petrus Stuyvesant after consultation with and with
the assent of the Courts of Brouckelen, Midwout and Amesfoort on the 29th of
December 1G5G last past, the inhabitants of Midwout were to contribute to tlie
yearly salary, promised to the Reverend pastor, Domine J. Theodorus I'olhemius,
four hundred florins, those of Breuckelen three hundred Uorius and Amesfoort a
like sum of three hundred florins. That after several meetings, they could find no
other way, than to impose upon each lot and parcel of land, of which there are
about forty in Midwout, a tax of ten Ilorins yearly is proportioned. This tax of
ten florins yearly for every lot proportionally would make up the sum of four
hundred florins, which we of the Court of Midwout have promised in presence of
the Honorable Director General to contribute to the yearly pay of the said Domine
Polhomius. But as every one of the Inhabitants and neighbors has not the same
amount of property, one having less, the other more, we must and cannot tax all
alike, but each in proportion to his property and real estate. If wo receive your
Honors' approbation to such a cotizatlon and tax up to four hundred florins for
the yearly pay of the said Domine Polhemius, we promise to levy it directly and
continue in it, each according to his ability and to make the assessment con-
scientiously, provided we are supported by your Honors against unwilling parties,
which we hope will not make any opposition. We promise also, to take oare and
pay attention, that at the expiration of each six months the salary then due shall
be paid to Domine Polhemius and we think, that the said Domine Polhemius might
be satisfied with it.

January 13, 1G57.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 379, 3S0.

1657

366 Ecclesiastical Kecords

Petition of the Magistrates of Amesfoort, Praying Con-
firmation OF AN Assessment for the Minister's Salary;
Granted.

[Jan. 13, 1657.]

To their Noble Honors, Petrus Stuyvesant, Director General and the Council of
New Netherland: Show respectfully and with due reverence, the delegated Schepens
of the Tillage of Amesfoort, as well in their official capacity as individually, that
pursuant to the resolution, adopted in the presence of the Honorable Director Gen-
eral, Petrus Stuyvesant, on the 29th of December 1656, last past, after conferring
with, and with the consent of, the Courts of Breuckelen, Midwout and Amesfoort,
we considered it determined, that we of the jurisdiction of the said village of
Amesfoort should in proportion to our neighbors of the villages and jurisdictions
of Breuckelen and Midwout find and raise as our quota of the annual salary and
pay promised to the Reverend preacher Domine J. Theodorus Polhemius the sum
of three hundred guilders. After several considerations and deliberations, con-
ferring also with the congregation and inhabitants, under correction, we have, in
order to raise the aforesaid three hundred florins in the easiest way, appraised
and assessed the property of each person conscientiously and to the best of our
knowledge and made the cotisation and taxlevy, here below given in detail, which
with what some parties from Gravesend have voluntarily promised to contribute,
will make up the sum of three hundred florins. When we shall have received your
Honors' approbation we promise to carry it out, hoping for your Honors" assistance
against a few, say two or three, evil minded persons, who might oppose and resist
our good intention and project.

The persons assessed and provisionally taxed for the contribution of the said
three hundred florins are the following:

Peter Classen promises to pay 20 florins

Marten Jansen likewise 20

Elbert Elbertsen is taxed 32

Joris Jacobsen 20

Cornells Dircksen 20

Jan Leyck 16

Albert Bestevaer's farmer 20

Hendrick Pietersen 10

Peter Roeloffsen 10

Hendrick Cornelissen 10

Hans Jansen 16

Jan Claesen 16

Cornelis Antonisen 10

RpelofC Cornelissen 10

Jacob Pietersen 6

Peter Cornelissen 16

Harpert Claesen 15

267 florins

Commending ourselves to your Honors' good favor, we, the Magistrates of Ames-
foort, await most humbly your Honors' favorable decree, which doing etc.
Your Honors' humble and obedient servants.
The Magistrates of Amesfoort
By Order

Peter Tonneman, Secretary.

OF THE State of Xew York. 367

On the 13th of January, 1657, at Amesfoort on Long Island, In New Netherland.

Having received and read the foregoing petition of the Court of Amesfoort, dated
the 13th of the month of January, the E>irector Genera) and Council of New
Netherland find the request therein contained to be just, and therefore the said
Magistrates of Amesfoort are authorized to carry out their tax levy and to proceed
legally against renitent parties.

Done at Fort Amsterdam in New Netherland, the IGth of January 1657. — Col.
Docs. N. Y. xiv. 378, 379.

Petition of the IVIagistkates of Brooklyn Against the As-
sessment FOR the Minister's Salary and Objecting to the
Appointment of Rev. Polhemius.

I [Jan. 16, 1657.]

Noble, Very Worshipful, Very Learned, Wise and Prudent, Honorable Director
General in New Netherland etc. Very Worshipful Sir:

Pursuant to the resolution adopted by your Honor on the 29th of November
(sic:) last past at Breuckelen in our meeting, the delegates from Midwout and
Amesfoort being present, Midwout was to contribute to the yearly salary of the
Rev. Domine Polhemius four hundred florins, Breuckelen three hundred florins and
Amesfoort three hundred florins which we then thought a heavy tax and took in
consideration to inform and submit to your Honor our decision after having made
our calculation. Now we, your Honor's humble servants, the Magistrates of
Breuckelen, report and sul)niit to your Honor the Impossibility to contribute yearly
three hundred guilders, because this sum cannot well be collected from a weak and
impoverished community, many members of which have suffered great losses and
damages in the times of war through surprises by the Indians and otherwise,
which have disabled them. With the best they can do, some will not be able to
raise what they would like to contril>ute; nor has the said Domine Polhemius ever
been called or engaged by us as pastor, but he has intruded here against our
wishes, desiring to preach in the public street in the open air; on account of
which the house of the Schepen Joris Dircksen here in Breuckelen was provision-
ally given him to avoid giving offence to any one. The burghers and inhabitants
of Breuckelen generally and the neighbors say, that for such meager and unsatis-
factory service as they have had hitherto, even if they could, they would not
resolve to contribute anything, for during the two weeks he comes here only for
a quarter of an hour on Sunday afternoon, gives us only a prayer instead of a
sermon, from which we learn and understand little and when we think, that the
prayer or sermon, whatever It be called, is beginning, it is already over, so that
he gives small edification to the congregation. It has happened to us only on the
Sunday before Christmas, the 24th of December last, that in place of a sermon,
which we had expected to have, we had to listen to a prayer so short, that it
was over, l)efore we had collected our thought; it was also nearly evening, before
he. Polhemius. came over, so that he had really not much time and was compelled
to break off and leave hastily to return liome, and this was all the edification —
little enough — which we have had during the Christmas holidays. We maintain
therefore, that we shall enjoy the same, if not more edification by appointing
some one of our midst to read a sermon from a book of homilies (buys postille)
every Sunday, than we have hitherto received by the sermon or prayer of said
Domine Polhemius.

We do not Intend, however, by this our request and remonstrance anything
to the dishonor of the said Polhemius or to the injury of his good reputation,
but say only, that his great age Is the cause of all and that his faculties are
evidently not what they were formerly; we see also, that Polhemius Is not deficient
in good will, but as he has not been called by us, we cannot conclude to con-
tribute to his support aside from our inability already explained and submitted
to your Honor. Although we, the Magistrates of Breuckelen, have resolved to

1657

368 Ecclesiastical Records

contribute to the salary of the said Polhemius, the congregation here cannot come
to such a resolution, as there are many, who cannot make any contribution anfl
whom it would be more necessary to support; there are besides many bouweries
unoccupied and vacant, for instance that of Mr. Paulis, the one of Frericlt
Lubbertsen on the strand, while a very simple and poor man lives on his other
bouwery, who is also unable to give anything, and Lodwyck lives upon the Poor
Bouwery while his lot is vacant, the same as Peter Cornelissen's, Elbert Elbert-
sen's, the land of Black Hans, Grabiels land, Peter Mallemocque, Peter Manist,
Jean Martyn and others more of whom there is quite a number. From the fore-
going your Honor may well consider and conclude, what can be raised and given
here and although every one shall be assessed by us and put on the tax list,
nobody will be able to resolve to contribute anything for such slender services,
as we have hitherto enjoyed. We finally submit with due respect, that whereas
the people of Mldwout have engaged Polhemius alone without our knowledge or
consent, we are very willing and well satisfied, that the Midwout people shall
enjoy the services of Domine Polhemius alone, if the Domine wishes again tQ
perform the service and prayer instead of a service as formerly, we shall not
be bound by it to anything, except to what from inclination and free and un-
biased will may be added to his salary, as several among us here are well inclined
to him, although we do not enjoy his, Polhemius', services. Closing herewith we
commend your Honor to the gracious protection of the Almighty and wish a
Happy New Year besides a prosperous and blessed administration until the end,
and commending ourselves to your Honor's good favor we are and remain
Your Honorable Worship's humble servants The Magistrates of Breuckelen,

Albert Cornelissen,
Joris Dircke,
Willem Bredenbent.
B.v their order,

Peter Touneman, Secretary.

Breuckelen, January 1657.

After having read the foregoing letter the following answer was made:
Mr. Tonneman is hereby commissioned by the Director General and Council to
remind the people of Breuckelen once more to fulfill their obligation and promise
concerning the salary of their pastor, Domine Polhemius, else the Director General
and Council will give such orders and make such dispositions as are necessary.
Date as above (16th of January 1657.) — Col. Docs. N. I. xiv. 380, 381, 382.

Letter of the Magistrates of Brooklyn to the Director
AND Council About the Salary of Their Minister.

Noble, Worshipful, Honorable, Very Learned, Wise and Prudent, your Honors
the Director General and Council of New Netherland. Gentlemen: We respect-
fully submit as our answer to the decision made by your Honors on the 16th of
January of this year 1657, by which we were to find means to supply the amount
of three hundred florins yearly for the salary, promised without our consent and
knowledge by the people of Midwout and Amesfoort to the Rev. Domine Pol-
hemius, that we of the Court of Breuckelen do not know, that we have ever-
promised or agreed to pay anything, but requested only time to gather informa-
tion and make a calculation, whether it was feasible and means might be found;
that we fear and apprehend, .it cannot be done in so weak and impoverished'
a congregation, as ours and the neighborhood. It was not our intention or wish,
to be constrained thereto by the Director General and Council and therefore,
not desiring to oppose the Director and Council herein, we liave resolved at
last to collect and contribute the said three hundred florins, how or where ever
we might be able to collect it, on condition that from the expiration of the
first year of Domine Polhemius' engagement, which la on the 7th of April 1657,

OF THE State of New York. 369

we shall be excused for this and the following years, unless in the meantime we
should hear of improvements and favorable changes (God grant it) here in this
country and the Fatherland, as we hope, when we shall make a proper agree-
ment with Domine Polhemius and promise to fulfill our former conditions, to
which we have bound ourselves, but we cannot engage ourselves for subsequent
and more years as above stated.

Closing herewith we commend your Honors to the gracious protection of God
wishing a prosperous and happy administration until the end and commend our-
selves to your Honors' good favors, with which we are and remain.
Your Honors' humble servants, the Schepens of the Court of Breuckelen.

Albert Cornelissen.
' Joris Dircksen,

The mark X of Jooris Rapallhe,

' William Bredenbent.

By their order,

Peter Tonneman, Secretary.

(January, 1657.) — Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 382, 383.

Petition of Inhabitants of Middleborougii (Newtown) L.
I. , About the House Built for Their Pastor. Order of
THE Director Thereon.

To the honorable gouernor worthie ser we whose names are underwritten
desire to make our humble requests knowen, in respect to the house bulded here
by the towne of Midleburrough for publicke use for a minister for continewance
and some of the towne hath given it away to mr more for his owne proprietie;
and his afEer him wherein we thinke we are wronged and the towne left destitute
if mr more please to leave us or if he should die for we know men are mortal
we are to seke both for minister and house to entertaine him into therefore we
doe humbly entreat your Honor that you would be pleased to take it into con-
sideration and accordingly Judge the equitie of the thing and the damage that
may ensew; thus leaning you to God and his grace we rest.

John Burroughes.

The mark IL of John Laiton

The mark UP of Robert Pudington

Francis Swaine
The mark of Thomas Horulsh

The mark E of Nlkles Carter
Samuell Coe.
Janeuaries the 22nd (sic.) 1G57.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 383.

Anno 1657, 25 January.
Answer to the foregoing writing.

Whereas Wee ware informed that the house off the Minister (being blld for
a publicq use and successively for the Ministerlj:) by soni off the Inhabitance off
the Towne off Midilleborch was disposed off, and given unto Meester More, for
his private use, it beciugh soo, as wee doe not hope, or thluke, then this are to
require the Magistraats off the said Towne, to make their appljrance before us,
for to give information and reasons, uppon wath Grounds, and Wherefore it was
done alsoo; In the mayntyme the Magistraats are required and ordered to pro-
ceed no further against the bearer John Layton. Soe after mee Love ij rest.

i Your friend and Gouvnernr.

Fort Amsterdam in Now Netherlaud. — Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 384.

1657

370 Ecclesiastical Records

Classis of Amsterdam.
Acts of the Deputies and their Correspondence.

Feb. ? 1657.
The Classis of Amsterdam to the Church of ISTew Amsterdam,
Feb. 15, 1657. (According to Dr. Thos. De Witt, Dec. 15, 1656).
Eeferred to in letter of Megapolensis and Drisius of Aug. 5, 1657.

Acts of the Deputies.

(Gouwester. New ISTetherland.)

1657, Feb. 12th.

Jacob Pietersen Gouwester, living in the Boomdwars straat,
next to the King Solomon (straat) desired to go to the East Indies
or to New Netherland. He gave good satisfaction in everything.
XX. 368.

Correspondence from America.

1657, March 6.
Rev. John Megapolensis to the Classis of Amsterdam.

March 6th, 1657.
Administeative Minutes of New Amsterdam.

Election of a Church Master.

1657, March 8.

Whereas according to extracts from the Resolves of the Honorable Director
General and Council of New Netherland dated 6th March of this year Pietcr
Tonneman is elected from those nominated by Burgomasters and Churchmasters
in place of the retiring Nicasius de Silla, the said Tonneman is therefore hereby
requested and authorized to attend to and fill the said office of Churchmaster for
the ensuing year with Govert Loockermans. Done this 8th March 1657, at the
Court of Burgomasters of this City of Amsterdam in New Netherland. — Records
of New Amsterdam, vol. vii. p. 142.

Administrative Minutes of New Amsterdam.

Accounts of Churchmasters.

1657, March 9.

Whereas one Churchmaster is retired and another having been appointed In
his stead, it is customary according to the practice of our Fatherland, that a/c
be rendered of their administration; Burgomasters have resolved to communicate
it to the Honorable General, to know whether a/c shall be rendered to his Honor,
or to the Burgomasters. — Records of New Amsterdam, vol. vii. p. 144.

OF THE State of New York. 371

Resolutions of the Common Council of the City of Amster-
dam Respecting ISTew Amstel, Delaware.

1657, March 9.

The Directors of the new Colonic In New Netherland have stated, through the
Burgomasters, that they had collected about three hundred Colonists, and there-
fore requested permission to engage a Minister, and to employ one of the city's
ships for their conveyance, and for the advancement of everything, to be allowed
to raise the sum of thirty six thousand guilders. Which, being considered, it
is resolved that the city's ship called de Wage be employed for that purpose, a
Minister engaged, and the aforesaid sum of thirty six thousand guilders borrowed
by them either from the Orphans Chamber or the Exchange Bank, according as
the Burgomasters deem proper. It is, also, further resolved that the Treasurers
be requested to pay attention to the employment of this and the foregoing
moneys, and to keep the account of the one and the other. — Col. Docs. N. T.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Xew Colon}^ in ISTew jSTetherland. — Call of a Minister to Js'ew

Netherland.

1657, March 19th.

In pursuance of the request (lit. ontwriting) of this Classis,
Rev. Depntati ad caiisas Indicas have rendered a report and ac-
count (opening) of the entire situation of the Church of the New
Colony (on the Delaware) in New Netherland; that other relig-
ions, and especially the Lutheran, have crept in there, and what
efforts they had made about this affair in respect to the Burgo-
masters and the committee of the Directors ad hanc causam; and
that finally, after all their efforts they had secured consent to call
a competent and ordained minister and to send him to those
regions.

The Rev. Assembly took this matter into serious consideration
and exercise, in the fear of the Lord, as to what person would
best be invited and called for this purpose. After mature con-
sideration of ever^' point, it was resolved to find out (to cast the
eye upon) some ordained minister. The Rev. Assembly at length
let its eye fall -with favor upon the Rev. Nicholas Mullerius. He
was waited on, (saluted) and spoken to as to his inclination. He
declared himself disinclined to undertake such a call and journey.

1657

372 EccLESiASTicAi- Records

The Eev. Assembly then suffered its thoughts to turn towards
other candidates. Having invited several to appear before them,
who also came, and after calling upon the name of the Lord, the
Eev. Everardus Welius was finally called. The call having been
accepted by him, his examination was set for the lOth of April.
He will expound (preach) Psalm 127. verse 1. vi. 39-40. xix.

41.

The Lutherans in New Netherland.

1657, March 19th.
Whereas the Lutherans in New Amsterdam, and principally
in New Netherland, are strengthening themselves and are putting
forth every effort to establish their position (lit. foot), and Forms
of worship, therefore did the Eev. Deputati ad causas Indicas re-
port their heavy hearted considerations thereon to the Assembly.
They request advice as to what is to be done in the matter, in
order to counteract this approaching evil. The Eev. Assembly
deems it in the highest degree necessary to watch against this
thing; and that the worthy burgomasters of the city of Amster-
dam as well as the committee of the Directors of this New Colony
shall be very earnestly addressed, and also waited on by the Eev.
Deputati ad causas Indicas, and shall seek to persuade them with
all serious argl^ments on the subject in order to check at the be-
ginning this toleration of all sorts of religions, and especially of
the Lutherans, lest God's Church come to suffer more and more
injury as time goes on. v. 41 ; xix. 42.

Letter from the Directors to Stutvesant : Wampum ; Cur-
rency; Eensselaerwtck ; Negroes; Cultivation of Sile:-
woRMs; Lutherans. The Currency.*

Duplicate. Tfie 7th of April 1657.
We send herewith the small bell, which the inhabitants of Fort Orange and
the village of Beverwyck requested for their newly built little Church; as the
twenty five beavers, brought over by Dirck Jansen Croon to pay for making a

•Wampum, peage, wampumpeage or sewant were the names given to the
Indians- currency which the Dutch found in use among the aborigines, when
they came to settle on the Hudson. Wampum was black and white perforated

OF THE State of New York. 373

pulpit, have arrived much damaged and therefore the proceeds therefrom were
not sufficient; we have at his request advanced for this purpose the sum of
seventy five florins as an encouragement to the community there. As to the
other two hells for the villages of Mldwout and Hemstead, we shall have them
made here also and send them to you by the first ships, when ready.

1667

We have by no means the Intention, to grant to the Lutherans any more*
liberty regarding the exercise of their religion, than stated in our letter of June
14, 1656, by which we still stand.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 386, 387, 388.

Administrative Minutes of New Amsterdam. f.

Oath of Burghers.

1657, April 9.

Follows the Oath taken by the Burghers; drawn up by the Right Honorable
General and Council.

I, N. N., promise and swear in the presence of Almighty God to be true and
faithful to the sovereignty of the Noble, High Mighty Lords States General of
the United Netherlands and Supreme Jurisdiction of the Honorable Lords Di-
rectors of the Privileged West India Company as Lords and Patroous of tlila
New Nerherland Province, their Director General and Council already appointed
or hereafter to be appointed; and to shew in the first place them, the Burgo-
masters and Rulers of this City, present and future, all respect and reverence
and to obey them In all honest and Just matters as a faithful subject and good
Burgher Is bound to do, as long as I shall continue In this Province. So Truly
Help me God Almighty. — Records of New Amsterdam, vol. Til. p. 154.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Everardus Welius.

1657, April 10th.

The candidate Everardus Welius having expounded the text
Psalm 127:1, was then examined on the principal heads of the
Christian religion. He gave the Assembly excellent satisfaction
in both. They therefore gladly permitted him to be invested
with the Sacred Ministry, in that New Colony in New Nether-
beads from three sixteenth to three eighth of an Inch In length and one eighth
In thickness. The Qunhang or Wh<>lk (Buccltnnn undatuni). a shollflsli formerly
nbdiinding on the coast of Long Island, but now rather rare, furnished the
material, from which the black (In reality It was dark purple), and more valu-
able, also called Suckauhock, was made. The white beads were made from
another shellfish, called Meteauhock. Periwinkle (Turbo llttoreua, Lin.) and
were more strictly the wampum. Isaac de liazleres. Treasurer of New Nether-
laud In 1027, Introduced wampum In the New England Colonies, much to the
disgust of the Inhabitants, who declared It the " Devil's work and money ".
See In Laws of New Netherlaud the Ordinances rel. to wampum. — B. Fernow.

1657

374 Ecclesiastical Records

land, (Delaware,) which is under the jurisdiction of the city of
Amsterdam. Unto this field he was elected by the Classis, with
the approval of the Worthy Burgomasters. He was also ordained
to the office with the laying on of hands in the presence of the
Assembly, and the rich blessing of the Lord was invoked upon
him. — vi. 44.

' Lutherans and Sects in I^ew ]!*^etlierland.

1657, April 10th.

Eev. Deputati ad causas Indicas report that they have fulfilled
their commission of opposing the free and public exercise of wor-
ship by the sects, and in particular, by the Lutherans in New
Netherland, both in respect of the Messrs. Directors and the Wor-
shipful Burgomasters of Amsterdam, and the Directors of the
New Colony. It wa& found that not only have requests to that
end been addressed to the Directors, but that a resolution has
already been adopted, tending to permit free worship of the sects,
by connivance; but that they had employed all diligence and
labor to induce the gentlemen, by many arguments, and powerful
motives, never to consent to the permission by connivance, or in
any other way. This had borne some fruit, but not so perfectly
that it should heal together out of existence. However it was
resolved by the Directors to abide by the resolution of the pre-
ceding year. The Lutherans are to be permitted quietly to have
their exercises at their own houses; a copy of which resolutions
were copied by the brethren ad causas Indicas. In conformity
with this resolution, the gentlemen have written to ISTew Nethcr-
land. As regards the Burgomasters in particular, they showed
hesitation in expelling the minister which the Lutherans had there
(in Amsterdam) ; but upon the urgent request of the Rev. Breth-
ren, accompanied with powerful arguments, they had taken the
subject under advisement, and w^ould give heed thereto at the
proper time. Now inasmuch as all these things are fraught with
anxious considerations, and do not place the Assembly completely

OF THE State of New York. 375

at tteir ease, it was further resolved that every endeavor should
be made to prevent these evils, both with regard to the Burgo-
masters and the Directors, as well as the Commissioners of the
JSTew Colony (on the Delaware.) It was also resolved to encourage
the Rev. Consistory in !N"ew ISTetherland, (ISTew Amsterdam,) to
continue in their good zeal, to check these evils in every possible
way. The Rev. Heydanas and the Deputati ad causas Indicas
shall attend to these matters. — vi. 45.

Administrative Minutes of J^Tew Amsterdam.

Petition of Jews denied.

The 11th April, 1657.

Jacob Cohin Hendricus, a Jew, appears in the Court of Burgomasters; request-
ing permission to bake and sell bread within this City, as other bakers, but
with closed door. Which being deliberated on, 'tis decreed, as this is directly
contrary to the privilege granted by the Honorable Director General and Council
to the Burghery of this City and also against the orders given by the Honorable
Lords Majores, the petitioners request cannot be granted.

1657

Asser Levy, a Jew, appears in Court; requests to be admitted a Burgher;
claims that such ought not be refused him, as he keeps watch and ward (tocht
en wacht) like other Burghers; shewing a Burgher certificate from the City of
Amsterdam, that the Jew Is Burgher there. Which being deliberated on, tis
decreed as before that it cannot be allowed, and he shall apply to the Director
General and Council. — Records of New Amsterdam, vol. vii. p. 154.

Vice Director Alrichs to the Commissioners of the Colonie
ON THE Delaware.

1657, April 13.

I also fully hope, and have placed my entire reliance on a Clergyman coming
over in the first ship, so that all our work may begin in the fear of the Lord,
and obtain the blessing of the Almighty; that those who have little knowledge or
lisht may not become backsliders; and those who are still weak In the faith
may be further strengthened. A learned and aged man who hath good gifts and
is well acquainted and conversant with Church government, would be of much
use there. This should not be deferred, as it is a scandal not to have either'
Church or Minister there, whenever any of the neighboring people, and even of
those who intend to settle, come. I, therefore, request that this may be taken
into the greatest consideration, with an effort to accomplish It most speedily. —
Col. Docs. N. Y. 11. 7.

1657

376 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

Classis of Amsterdam.

Acts of the Deputies.

1657, April 23rd.
Rev. Schoonhovius in the Chair.

The Commissioners of the new colonies in behalf of the city
of Amsterdam, have satisfied Rev. Mr. Welius concerning the
conditions, and a call will be placed in his hands as soon as pos-
sible, according to the custom in vogue in such matters

The Brethren have reported their several endeavors with the
Messrs. Directors in relation to the strife among the sects, es-
pecially the Lutherans. They have at last received as answer that
the old resolution should remain in force, in accordance with what
the Messrs. Directors had before written to the General, and the
Council of Xew Netherland. It was judged expedient to tran-
scribe verbatim in the journal the extracts from that communica-
tion, which the Brethren requested permission to make.

Extract from the communication in behalf of the West India
Company, to the Governor, Peter Stuyvesant, and the Council in
New Netherland, June 14, 1656. See this elsewhere. — xx.
372-3.

Rev. Welius.

1657, May 7th.

The Deputies report that Rev. Welius is contented with his
salary. What remains yet to be done in this matter, the brethren
shall further perform. Instructions shall be given him. The or-
ganization (placing) of the Consistory in the Xew Colony remains
commended to his prudence. All this shall be communicated to
him, on the part of this Assembly, vi. 47 ; xix. 43,

Acts of the Deputies.
(Ilermanus Blom, declines the chaplaincy.)

1657, May 7th.

In compliance with the Resolution of Classis, the lioble Mighti-
nesses (Admiralty Board?) at Amsterdam, have been spoken to

OF THE State of New Yokk. 377

about the salary of the proponents, who should go to sea with
Mr. Tromp. Their Noble Mightinesses had said, that when a
good person had been found for the said service, they would
come to an agreement about the conditions. Thereupon the As-
sembly busied itself to select someone from the proponents here-
tofore sent. The lawful election fell upon Eev. Hermanns Blom,
whom the brethren presented to their Noble Mightinesses; but
the conditions submitted by their Mightinesses were not accept-
able to Eev. Blom, as they promised him but thirty guilders
($12.) per month. Therefore this good work, so well begun, has
hitherto proved without fruit. — xx. 373.

Lutherans and Sects in New Netherland and the Colony.

1657, May 7th.

The Deputati ad causas Indicas, laboring in compliance with
their instructions to oppose the Lutherans in New IS^ etherland,
and on the South (the Delaware) Eiver have learned that in
the treaty made with the Swedes in the New Colony, it was stipu-
lated and consented to by the (New Netherland) Colonies that a
Lutheran minister might abide there. There was also sent to
the North Eiver, (the Hudson) a Lutheran minister named John
Earnest Gutwasser (Goedwasser.) It was judged by the Assem-
bly that if it (free worship) were granted to the Swedes; on ac-
count of the contrast, it could hardly be disallowed to the (Dutch)
Lutherans (in New Amsterdam.) But inasmuch as it is understood
that the Swedes have mostly gone away, further efforts should be
made (to induce) the Burgomasters to oppose the Lutherans and
other sects (in New Amsterdam;) and that they should be re-
quested to recommend this matter to Director Aldrix (Aldrich)
in their letters, even as it shall be urged upon the Directors (of
the West India Company) that in their district, which had been
hitherto, by their good care, Avell managed, the Lutherans shall
not be permitted any permission freely to exercise their forms
of worship, vi. 48, 49 ; xix. 44.

1667

1657

378 Ecclesiastical Records

Acts of the Deputies and their Oorrespondence.

1657, May 7th.
Rev. Mr. Winckelius in the Chair, xx. 373-377.

The Classis of Amsterdam to the Consistory of 'New !N"etherland,
Sent with Rev. Everardus Welius.

May 25th, 1657.

Reverend, Very Learned, Godly and Well Beloved Brethren iii
Christ Jesus:

We cannot allow the excellent opportunity which is offered
us to pass, without sending this communication to you. The
Hon. Mayor of this city (Amsterdam) as well as the Hon. Com-
missioners of the affairs of the new colony (ISTew Amstel) planted
on the South River in Xew ITetherland, have approved, in accord-
ance with the published conditions concerning the same, (Art. 7,
of the previous year,) the sending provisionally, to that place,
of a schoolmaster, Avho will also visit the sick, and publicly read
God's Word, and sing the Psalms. Accordingly we have sought
out, for this purpose, a worthy man, named Evert Pieterson. He
has been examined in all the above named particulars, and is con-
sidered properly qualified. He therefore undertook his journey
thither, (March 9, 1657,) in the fear of the Lord. We doubt not
but that he has already arrived, and has edified many. By him
a certain letter was sent over to your Reverences, in which we
gave account of those things which we judged necessary to com-
municate to you. (See Col. Docs. l^. Y. ii. 4-22, 48-74.)

The Gospel door seems ever to be opening more widely. Sev-
eral families are about to remove hence, being willing to be
transported thither. Who knows what the Lord God purposes
in respect to the extension of his kingdom, and the conversion of
the heathen. Indeed this good work has been so greatly taken
to heart here, that it has been deemed necessary to send a lawful
minister there, to institute religious meetings in which God's

OF THE State of !N^ew Yoek. 379

1657

"Word may be preached with soundness, the sacraments adminis-
tered according to Christ's ordinances, and God's name publicly
honored. Accordingly the Rev. Classis has been occupied in
choosing one from among the recommended candidates, to go
over in the capacity of minister. The lawful choice has fallen
upon Rev. Everardus Welius, a young man deserving of much
praise in many respects. For he is such a one in life, in study,
in gifts, in conversation, that we expect nothing else than to hear,
in due time, that he fills his office with fruitfulness, under God's
blessing and grace. Therefore also he has been ordained to his
office, after a proper final examination, by the laying on of hands
in the Classical Assembly.

We request, in case he should stop over in passing, in your
localities, (New Amsterdam), that you will treat him with
brotherly consideration, and assist him in everything wherein he
may have need of your services. We hope that the Lord of the
harvest will make him a useful and successful laborer in the har-
vest which is yet to be gathered there; that he will increasingly
endue him with strength of body and of soul; for surely his
Reverence will, especially at first, find trouble enough to fashion
everything into a well ordered form of church government. To
this end, indeed, a friendly correspondence between him and you,
so far as possible, -svill not be unserviceable to him. And the
work of the ministry will be very difficult, since there are already
there, and in time more people will oome, of all manner of per-
nicious persuasions. Every one can therefore, easily perceive
how much diligence and labor are required to prevent false opin-
ions and foul heresies from becoming prejudicial to the puro
truth.

In order also, that divers sects, in that colony, may not be able
to lift their heads, we have earnestly urged upon the Mayor
and Commissioners here (at Amsterdam) that their Honors
should do something to establish some (ecclesiastical) Order, in'
opposition to general license. They have given us quite a satis-

380 Ecclesiastical Kecoeds

factory answer, namely, that they could not force the consciences
of men, which indeed, we had expressly stated we did not wish;
but they said, that should information arrive that the sects car-
ried on their exercises of religion (in public) then they would
look to it to prevent such a thing, after examination of the facts.

We have requested your Reverences to inform us from time to
time, by writing, concerning the condition of affairs in the church
over which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers. We hear
indeed one thing and another, through different private sources.
But meantime we are awaiting agreeable letters directly from you ;
but now for years we have received no answers to our communi-
cations. This circumstance makes us somewhat fearful lest this
friendly correspondence should gradually cease. This we hope
not to see.

Meanwhile, as regards your church, we did not sit still in the
matter of the Lutheran controversy, of which frequent mention
has been made in our former letters; but so far as was prac-
ticable, we have held a watchful eye upon it. It was rumored
that they had again petitioned the Directors to be permitted to
enjoy, in that land, freedom in the public exercises of their
religion. But their request was not granted. After they had
repeatedly pressed their suit, the said gentlemen dismissed them,
finally, with the answer, that their petition should be presented
rather to the States-General than to them. We were further
informed that the Directors had examined the list of persons
who had journeyed thither, and had found among the number,
the name of one John Ernest Goedwater, (Gutwasser,) who for
all we know, was examined by the Lutheran church here, ordained
as preacher, and sent over there in that capacity. This is indeed
a matter of great importance, which might most signally hinder
the progress of the truth. Therefore the Eev. Brethren, the
Deputies of the Olassis, have been occupied since last year, in
seeking to stop the growth of this evil. They have diligently
plied the Directors with persuasive arguments, and have perse-

OF THE State of New York, 381

vered, until the above mentioned gentlemen resolved to abide
by the old resolution, in conformity with what they had previously
written to the General and his Council in that place. Of this
writing an extract was asked and granted. In this we observe
that the Lutherans were permitted the free exercise of their relig-
ion in their own houses. We cannot interpret this in any other
way than that every one must have the freedom to serve God
quietly within his dwelling, in such a manner as his religion may
prescribe, without instituting any public gatherings or conven-
ticles. When this interpretation is recognized, our complaints
will cease.

It therefore remains to you, worthy brethren, to be vigilant,
lest your congregation, which we learn is at present in a good
and encouraging condition, suffer from the liberty which the
sects may assume. But should it happen that this evil is not
remedied to your satisfaction, although we hope it may be other-
wise, if we can serve you in any way, we gladly offer a helping
hand, in the name of the Classis, whenever our body is furnished
by your Reverences with proper information." This we will use
as occasion permits.

Herewith we conclude. Meanwhile we hope that the Lord
God may long bless you in your duties, and may preserve you
in good health, to the honor of his Holy Name, to the signal edi-
fication of your congregation, and to your temporal welfai'e and
eternal salvation.

Signed,

Caspar de Carpentier

Actum Amsterdam, Abraham Roeloff

May 25, 1657. Conrad Schoonhoven.

Vice Director Ai.riciis to the Burgomasters of Amsterdam.

1G57. May 25.
And, as there was scarcely any storehouse, I have been obliged to fix some-
thing tent fashion, to preserve the goods which, iu such a manner or with such
covering, are not sufficiently protected from rain, rotting, etc. Therefore, neces-
saries are required to be sent hither for a large storehouse; also suitable boats

382 Ecclesiastical Records

and a Minister, all which are of the greatest necessity. As there was no powder-
house here, I have had a cellar constructed under the walls, so that the powder
may be preserved in a sure place which is beyond danger. Meanwhile, the ship
Bever, has been discharged within ten allowed days. — Col. Docs. N. Y. li. 9.

Vice Dieectoe Alkichs to the Commissionees of the Colony
ON THE Delaware.

1657, May 7.
Honorable, Worshipful, Wise, Right Prudent Gentlemen: —

My last to your Honors was dated the 8th instant, whereunto I refer; never-
theless, I am under the necessity to repeat here, and again herein respectfully
to request you to be pleased, should you not have already sent out the materials
necessary for a suitable warehouse, as well two carpenters at least, who, without
whom we cannot get along, and the requisite boat and clergyman, no longer to
postpone forwarding them, for, in consequence of the heavy rain that frequently
falls here in great quantities, which will leak through any old sails, there is im-
minent danger that whatever is dry or susceptible of damage, will be spoiled. —
Col. Docs. N. Y. ii. 18.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.
Lutherans in IS^ew Xetherland.

1657, June 5th.

About the restraint of the Lutherans and other sects in I^ew
ISTetherland and the New Colony (on the Delaware), the gentle-
men were waited on, and this business was earnestly recommended
to them. They promised to be on their guard against their
exercising public worship, and not permit it, but endeavor to
prevent it. — v. 55; xix. 45.

Correspondence from America.

1657, June 27th.
Eev. Gideon Schaats to Eev. Domine Laurentius.
The Peace of Christ !

Very Dear Father and Brother in Christ, Domine Laurentius : —
In the beginning of November, last year, (1656,) in conjunc-
tion with Domine Megapolensis, I wrote to you at the request
of the Rev. Classis, concerning the state of the church in general,
in this country, and in particular about myself, ^^^th the design

OF THE State of 'Nbw Yokk. 383

of having the same communicated to the Rev. Brethren. But
as we have leai-ned that the ship " Otter ", by which we sent our
letters, was lost on the coast of England, and as we have received
no answers to them, we now repeat the information.

About the church and congregation here : Much could be said
of the indiscreet walk of many. There are many hearers, but
not much saving fruit. The place increases, but when the wind
is from the South, the people, who carry on trade, by which this
place alone exists, pass away like grass growing on the (meadow.)

We have here about one hundred and thirty members, most
of whom I found here. I think that I have received about thirty.
May God sanctify them ! But we have been also considerably
deceived by certain, ones, so that on account of their inconsistent
walk, although mth but little assistance, I have been obliged
to suspend them from the Lord's Table. The people are rather
reckless; many remain away from the Lord's Table for a kernel
of oats, (the slightest reason); disputes often arise on account of
trade. But they ought never to be left without a preacher, as
there are sometimes between three and four hundred at church,
notmthstanding the distance some have to travel; and if they
were all well inclined, there might be an audience of six hundred,
besides the merchants, who frequent the place during the sum-
mer; but the taverns and villainous houses have many visitors.
The colonists have not more than fourteen or fifteen country
places (farms); the Company has around the fort a "Factory"
village of one hundred and twenty houses, if not more, and oth-
ers are springing up daily; a small new church has been located
in the heart of this village, Beaverwyck, where by God's grace
I now preach. But inasmuch as most of the people are under
the Company, Rensselaer neither will nor can continue me after
my term expires. This, according to the last agreement made,
will be on the 24:th of July, 1657. [A marginal note in the
same hand writing says : This contract was made on the 20th

1657

384 Ecclesiastical Records

of September 1656 or thereabouts, at which time he was already
intending to resign.] Then I shall be free from my duties here.
I wrote about this in my last letter. This matter gives me a
great deal to think about, and the uncertainties cause me much
trouble. I am free from van Rensselaer, or will be; but not a
word was said by the officers of the Company about my salary,
before I received my discharge. No preacher has ever yet been
appointed here by the Company, and the Company says that the
congregation must pay the preacher. But they (the people?) pre-
fer to gamble away, or lose in bets, a ton of beer at twenty
three or twenty four guilders, or some other liquor. I will say
nothing against the better class; but of these there are too few
to make up the salary. The Company's people are not very
liberal, as may be seen in the case of Domine Polheymius,
preacher at Flatbush, whom the poor farmers pay a scanty salary.
On the whole, frequently I do not know what to do; nor can I
tell what my final resolutions shall be. Perhaps when I am
free, I shall be pleased to make use of that freedom in the com-
ing spring, 1658, and travel vsdth my children to the Fatherland.
Here they learn nothing but rudeness, instead of useful things.
This journey is desirable especially for my sons, each of whom
is fit now to undertake something to his liking. In the mean-
while, and at the request of the Consistory here, I shall not
cease to do my duty, until the time that you and the Kev.
Brethren can do something for me in this matter. If the Com-
pany, which made the first beginnings at this place, would also
make a beginning in the appointment of a preacher, then let
them also provide for him, as they do for the preacher at New
Amsterdam. The work here is very hard for one minister, while
they have two at the Manhattans; and because above the Mi-
nades such a dearth is felt; for victuals are three times more
easily procured at the Minades, as the English live in that neigh-
borhood, and they are also on the sea. The salary of the old

OF THE State of I^ew York. 385

preacher there who keeps house is- two thousand guilders in-
cluding his house rent; and besides he has free fuel, which here
we have not. Fire wood costs us about two hundred guilders,
for which the price at the Minades is hardly one hundred and
fifty. This is because of the difficulty in hauling it from the
woods. ISTeither is there any house for the preacher here. All
the houses are occupied, so that there are none to rent. Every-
body must build for himself, and at great expense, for every-
thing is four times as dear as in the Fatherland; as for example
carpenters wages, and everything pertaining to building. The
houses here cost a great deal. A decent domicile cannot be rented
for less than four hundred to four hundred and fifty guilders,
while Eensselaer will not allow me more than two hundred guild-
ers for rent; and the congregation is not willing to build me a
house. But a Poor-house has been established here, and, God
be praised, as there are yet very few poor people here, I have
made arrangements with the deacons, and lived therein until now.
The Brethren must therefore take care, that no preacher is sent
here, and that I am not ordered to remain here, without being
decently treated, as other ministers are. Nevertheless, I fare so
well, that I would not care to leave my congregation, if I had
only means to send my sons, one after the other, to the Father-
land. But I am already very much behind. I might indeed sell
all my movable property, which I brought here, and then all
would go well, if I could immediately start on my travels; and
if my wife, who has not yet succumbed, had traded a little more,
mthout which we would have been still more miserable. I often
take my God as witness, that we have never lived luxuriously,
and I do not wish to. We have lived more simply than any
other minister, and yet how different is my condition, in this re-
spect, from the common inhabitants here. I thank God for what
he gives; only I find myself conscientiously compelled to write
this, that the dear Brethren might see to it, that no other brother
25

1657

386 Ecclesiastical Records

be misled into these parts, as I have been. The Rensselaers
knew, that the ministers were not to be returned home at their
own expense, but that was concealed from me in my contract. It
was mentioned in the contract of the other minister, (Megapolen-
sis), made by the late pious Kilian van Eensselaer, vnth several
other conditions favorable to him, but too long to repeat here.
I have myself read them in the contract. I had forgotten to
say, that there is no prelector nor precentor here, which duties I
have had to fill. All this is information for the Brethren, for
them to act upon. At the request of the Classis I communicate
this to you, hoping that you ^^^.ll inform them thereof. In clos-
ing, I commend you and your dear vnfe and children, with the
best wishes of my family, to the grace of God, and remain, this
27th of June, 1657, of Your Reverence, the humble colaborer
in the work of God.

Gideon Schaats,

Pastor at Rensselaerswyck.

Petition of the Revs. Megapolensis and Drisius to the BtTBr

GOMASTERS, ETC, AoAINST ToLERATING THE LuTHERANS.

July 6, 1657.

To the Hon. Burgomasters and Schepens of the city of Am-
sterdam, New l^etherland : —
The ministers of this city, with all due respect, desire to send
in this, their remonstrance. They have understood that there
has arrived by the ship " De Molen ", a Lutheran minister; that
he designs settling, in his official capacity, in this important place;
that it is evidently their intention, if they obtain a foothold
in this place, to extend themselves, which they may then do
the more easily, to other parts of this province. In our opinion
this must operate injuriously to the policy of the government,
as well as of the Reformed Religion, unless it be successfully
opposed at the beginning. For

OF THE State of JSTew Yoek. 387

1. The Lutherans and their adherents have been forbidden
heretofore, to hold their separate conventicles, altho' they have
repeatedly solicited this privilege of the Hon. Directors in vain.
They nevertheless obstinately and perseveringly persist in prose-
cuting their object against the known and declared will of the
government of this place. If they should gain this object, they
would doubtless attempt to proceed further.

2. We feel sure that great contention and discord will develope
therefrom, not only among the inhabitants and citizens in gen-
eral, but also in families, of which we have had proofs and com-
plaints during the past year. For example, some husbands have
forced their wives to leave their own church, and attend their
conventicles.

3. Large numbers of Lutherans have been found in the East
Indies, and also, formerly, in Brazil, but we do not know that
the public exercise of their religion was ever allowed them;
doubtless because strife in religious matters would produce con-
fusion in political affairs,

4. Thus, also, the number of hearers in our (Reformed) church
would be perceptibly diminished. Many of that persuasion have
continued attentive hearers among us, and several have united
themselves with our church. These would separate themselves
from us, if separate worship, according to the Lutheran form,
should be allowed.

5. The treasury of our deacons, (the poor fund) would be con-
siderably diminished, and become unable to sustain the burdens
it has hitherto borne. It is known to your Hon. Body that there
is no other means provided for the support of the poor, save what
is collected in the church. This is given to widows, orphans,
and to all who make suitable application whatever may be theii'
religious persuasion. This could not be done imder any other
arrangement.

6. If the Lutherans should be indulged in the exercise of their
(public) worship, the Papist, Mennonites and others, would soon
make similar claims. Thus we would soon become a Babel of

1657

388 Ecclesiastical Records

confusion, instead of remaining a united and peaceful people.
Indeed it would prove a plan of Satan to smotlier this infant,
rising congregation, almost in its birth, or at least to obstruct
the march of truth in its progress.

"We therefore request your Hon. Body earnestly to consider
the measure referred to, as injurious to the political as well as to
the religious interests of this place; and, following in the foot-
steps of your predecessors in authority in this city, as well as
in the Province at large, "^dll take measures to arrest the evil
ready to creep in, and prevent it according to your best ability.
So doing, etc. Your Honors' Obedient

John Megapolensis.
July 6, (12) 165Y. Samuel Drisius.

Endorsed on this letter is the following : —

The Burgomasters and Schepens having read the request herein

presented, by the ministers of the Holy Gospel, return thanks

to them for their care in this matter. They refer them to the

request of their Honors on this subject, heretofore made to the

Government, and the reply thereto, which are hereunto annexed.

By the order of the Burgomasters and Schepens,

Timotheus Gabry, Secretary.
August 13, 165T,

at the City Hall, in

Amsterdam, ISTew ISTetherland.

Repoet of the Mayor and Aldermen of New Amsterdam

TJpoN the Petition of the Ministers Against Allowing

Lutheran Services.

1657, July 14th.

To the ISToble, Honorable Director-General and the Honorable
Council of New Netherland: —
With all due respect, the Burgomasters and Schepens of this
city show, that the ministers of the Gospel here appeared yester-

OF THE State of New Yoke. 389

day before us with, the annexed petition, concerning the arrival
of a Lutheran preacher, who had come by the ship " Goude Meu-
len " (Golden Mills). They allege several reasons and motives,
why the spread of that doctrine ought to be prevented here.
These having been taken into consideration by us, the aforesaid
Lutheran preacher, named Johannes Ernestus Goetwater was sum-
moned before us. We asked him, witk what intentions he had
come to this country. He thereupon frankly answered, he bad
been sent on behalf of their Consistory, to occupy the position
of a preacher here, as far as it would be allowed. He also
trusted that a letter of permit would come by the ship " Waegh "
(Balance), giving them freedom of religion as in the Fatherland;
also that the Directors (of the West India Company) had this
matter under consideration, about which, a resolution should fol-
low at the next opportunity; and that he had writings from the
Lutheran Consistory of Amsterdam, to be delivered to their
congregation here.

When we deliberated on all this, we could not believe that the
Hon. Directors would tolerate in this place any other doctrine,
than the true Eeformed Religion. This is fully sustained by
the oath, which your Honors administered to us upon our enter-
ing upon our duties, and which the Honorable, the Lords-Pa-
troons, approved. By this we bound ourselves under oath to help
maintain the true Reformed Religion, and to suffer no other
religion or sects. Therefore we have charged the said Goet-
waeter, not to hold public or private exercise in this city, and
not to deliver to the congregation, as he called it, the letters
from the (Lutheran) Consistory (at Amsterdam) until further
orders. As this is a matter which concerns not only this place,
but the whole Province, we address ourselves further to your
Honors, and request that measures may be found, by which, the
true Reformed Religion will be maintained, and all other sects
excluded, that the blessing of the Lord may increase in its flow

1657

1667

390 EOCLESIASTIOAL ReCOEDS

upon us. Thus all our good inliabitants will feel obliged to skow
their gratitude to your Honors, for doing this, etc.
By order of the Hon, Burgomasters and Schepens,
Timotheus Gabry,
Secretary of Amsterdam, in ISTew Netherland.

Received the report by the Burgomasters and Schepens of this
city, accompanying the petition of the ministers.

The Director-General and Council are well pleased with the
zeal and desire, shown by the Burgomasters and Schepens of this
city for supporting the Reformed doctrine and excluding schisma-
tics, and praise them therefor. The Director-General and Council
agree in every particular with the report. They request and
order the Burgomasters and the Schepens of this city, as well as
all other inferior Courts, that the orders and edicts formerly
issued and repeatedly published against this thing; and especially
the order, repeated on the first of February, Anno 1656, shall
be retained and enforced strictly. We consider this to be neces-
sary for the maintenance and conservation not only of the Re-
formed divine service, but also of political and civil peace, quiet-
ness and harmony. Thus done at the meeting of the Honorable
Director-General and Council, held at Fort Amsterdam in ISTew
Xetherland, the 14th of July, Anno 1657.

Signed by order of the jSToble, Honorable

Director-General and Council,

C. van Ruyven, Secretary.
Report of the

Burgomasters and Schepens

of Amsterdam, to Director-General

and Council about maintaining the Reformed Religion,

with (exclusion of sects.)

OF THE State of New York. 391

Gov. Stuyvesant to the Magisteaats off Heemstead.

17 July, 1657.
Lovlnge Frindes — Before ml departure from you I was In hoopes; off a good act
amongst you both in settlingh off mister denton's continuance according to agree-
ment off the tents for the present year: Butt Beeinge in hest Back and ready for
mi returne; Both were Broocli off By sum turbelent Spirits iff in the neme off the
whole or any is yet ignorant; but not satisfeyt therefore you may be pleased to
understand by these presents that wee are yett expected the tenths uppon the field
for the year present and accordanse to the value off them for the yeare past this
therefore Is ordered by these present that before the gatheringe off the crop you
shall give tymly noticij that we may send a men for the such or watt is the patrons
due, and for the ministry: You al doe know that Mister Robert fordim sum tymes
minister of the town off heemsted; did leave the plaeic and alsoo the exercys of
the ministery without our wish or knowledge and for no little reasons therefore wee
ken not admitt him in such a mennor of comminge againe. Soe after my servls
recommendinge you all unto the proteckcon off the Almeytig I rest.

Answer to the above.
Right Wortschlpfull — Yours wee have received bearing date the 17th Jully
wheare in wee understand you are unsatisfied heering summe speeches from sume
pitlur (i. e. private) man or men not being imployed by the towne nor by thee
knowledg or consent nether doe the towne owne what they have said wee hoope
according to the agreement made for a hundredth skeepell of wheeat for the tentes
you will be content the which the towne agreed with you and are willing to per-
forme, our desiers are to Imbrace Mr. dentons ministrie if God be pleased to con-
tinue hime amongst us and as for yoursellfe we have had sufficient experience of
your willingnesse and doubt not but you are the same by your late free and noble
profer. Soe hoping will not take any exceptions against the whoolle for sume p'tillr
Estrauigant speches for soe it will sumtimes fall out wheare a generall voat is woe
have sent Mr. Simons the hearer heare of hee shall further informe your woorshipe
soo not further to truble your woorschepe att present wee remaine yours in all ser-
vice to command according to our power

Richard Gildeersleue, in the name and

behaulfe of the towne of Hempsteed,
this 25th of July, 1657.
Addressed.

" To the Right Worschipfull peeter Stiuasnt Gouernor Generall of the new
Netherlandes at his house foort amsterdame thesse present." — Doc. Hist.
N. Y. iii. lis.

Gov. Stuyvesaxt's Reply.

Lovinge fricndos: —

Your letter sent by Mr. Semlns and his information have given us full satisfaction
so that wee sal rest in your promise off hundert schcpels oft' Weat for the tentes
for the present yeare — about the contlnuancy off mister denton amongst you wee
sal use al endevors we ken iff hee ken nott bee persuaded: you must locke for an-
other Abel and Godly man weerunto we on our seydo sal contribu what Is in our
power — soo etc.

Heemsteid sent the 29th of July ady lGo7.— Doc. Hist. X. Y. Hi. 119.

1657

1667

392 Ecclesiastical Recosds

Classis of Amsterdam.

Correspondence from America.

1657, July 31st.

J. T. Polhemus to the Classis of Amsterdam.

Reverend, Learned and Esteemed Gentlemen, the Preachers of
the Classis of Amsterdam, and dearly beloved Brethren in
the Lord: —

With respectful salutations and hearty thanks for all the favors
shown to my wife in my absence, I am glad to inform you here-
with, that she arrived here safely and in good health on the dth
of September. For this the good God be praised above all, and
then your Reverences, who have helped her. I wrote to you, to
her, and to others, in the year 1655, and am very sorry to learn,
that these letters have been kept back. But as I requested then,
so I entreat your Reverences now, that you will not interpret,
to my disadvantage, the circumstance that I had not written
sooner. The reason was, that I was uncertain about my remain-
ing here, and I was in doubt, whether I should not carry my
news myself. I had no idea, that there could be any dissatis-
faction with myself or my service. I also sent over my dismissal
(from Brazil) and my testimonials. ISTow, Reverend Brethren,
please not to give too much credence to backbiters; they are but
human. With God's help I shall give satisfaction to those who
watch here, as well as to your Reverences and to all pious people.
May the merciful God help us all. Herewith I commend your
Reverences, collectively and individually, to God's Almighty
keeping.

Your Reverences faithful and sincere servant,

J. T. Polhemus.
Midwout in ISTew I^Tetherland,

Ultimo July, 1657.

OF THE State of I^ew Yoek. 393

Correspondence from Anaerica.

1657, Aug. Sth.

Eevs. J. Megapolensis and S. Drisius to the Classis of Amsterdam.

P. S. Aug. 14.

Eeverend, Pious and Learned Gentlemen, Fathers and Brethren
in Christ Jesus : —

The letters of your Eeverences, of the 13th of June 1656, and
of the 15th of October of the same year have been received. We
were rejoiced to learn of the fatherly affection and care which
you show for the welfare of this growing congregation. We also
learned thereby of the trouble, you have taken with the Lords Di-
rectors, to prevent the evils threatened to our congregation by
the creeping in of erroneous spirits; and of your Reverences' de-
sire, to be informed of the condition of the churches in this coun-
try.

We answered you in the autumn of the year 1656, and ex-
plained all things in detail. To this we have as yet received no
reply, and are therefore in doubt, whether our letters reached
you. This present letter must therefore serve the same end.

The Lutherans here pretended, last year, that they had obtained
the consent of the Lords Directors, to call a Lutheran Pastor
from Holland. They therefore requested the Hon. Director and
the Council, that they should have permission, meanwhile, to hold
their conventicles to prepare the way for their expected and com-
ing pastor. Although they began to urge this rather saucily, we,
nevertheless, animated and encouraged by your letters, hoped for
the best, yet feared the worst, which has indeed come to pass.
For although we could not have believed that such permission had
been given by the Lords Directors, there nevertheless arrived here,
with the ship " Meulen. " (The ^lill) in July last, a Lutheran
preacher Joannes Ernestus Goetwater, to the great joy of the
Lutherans, but to the special displeasure and uneasiness of the

1657

1667

394 Ecclesiastical Records

congregation in this place ; yea, even the whole country including
the English, were displeased.

"We addressed ourselves, therefore, to his Honor, the Director-
General, the Burgomasters and Schepens (Aldermen) of this
place, and presented the enclosed petition. As a result thereof,
the Lutheran pastor was siunmoned before their Honors and
asked, with what intentions he had come here, and what com-
mission and credentials he possessed. He answered, that he had
come to serve here as a Lutheran preacher, but that he had no
other commission, than a letter from the Lutheran Consistory at
Amsterdam to the Lutheran congregation here. He was then
informed by the Hon. authorities here, that he must abstain from,
all church services, and from the holding of any meetings, and
not even deliver the letter, which he brought from the Lutherans
at Amsterdam without further orders ; but that he must regu-
late himself by the edicts of this Province against private con-
venticles. He promised to do this, adding, however, that with the
next ships he expected further orders and his regular commis-
sion. In the meantime, however, we had the snake in our bosom.
We would have been glad if the authorities here had opend that
letter of the Lutheran Consistoiy, to learn therefrom the secret
of his mission, but as yet they have not been willing to do this.

We then demanded that our authorities here should send back
the Lutheran preacher, who had come without the consent of the
Lords Directors, in the same ship in which he had come, in order
to put a stop to this work, which they evidently intended to prose-
cute with a hard Lutheran head, in spite of and against the will
of our magistrates; for we suspect that this one has come over to
see whether he can pass, and be allowed to remain here, and thus
to lay the foundation for further efforts ; but we do not yet know
what we can accomplish.

Domine Gideon Schaats wrote to you last year about the con-
gregation at Rensselaerswyck or Beverwyck, as he intends to do

OF THE State of ^N^ew York. 395

again. We know nothing othemvise than that the congregation
there is in a good condition; that it is growing vigorously, so that
it is almost as strong as we are here at the Manhatans. They
built last year a handsome parsonage. On the South River, mat-
ters relating to religion and the church have hitherto progressed
very unsatisfactorily; first because we had there only one little
fort, and in it a single Commissary, with ten to twenty men, all
in the Company's service, merely for trading with the Indians.
Secondly: In the year 1651 Fort jSTassau was abandoned and
razed, and another, called Fort Casemier, was erected, lower down
and nearer to the seaboard. This was provided with a stronger
garrison, and was reinforced by several freemen, who lived near it.

But the Swedes, increasing there in numbers, troubled and
annoyed our people daily. After they had taken Fort Casemier
from us, they annoyed our countrymen so exceedingly, that the
South River was abandoned by them. However in the year 1655
our people recovered Fort Casemier, and now it is held by a suf-
ficiently strong garrison, including several freemen, Avho also have
dwellings about. One was then appointed, to read to them on.
Sundays, from the Postilla. This is continued to this day. The
Lutheran preacher (Peter Iljort) who was there was returned to
Sweden.

Two miles from Forst Casemier, up the river, is another Fort,
called Christina. This was also taken by our people, at the same
time, and the preacher there (Xertunius) was sent away, mth
the Swedish garrison.

But because many Swedes and Fins, at least two hundred, live
above Fort Christina, two or three miles further up the river, the
Swedish Governor made a condition in his capitulation, that they
might retain one Lutheran preacher, (Lokenius) to teach these
people in their language. This was granted then the more easily.
First, because new troubles had broken out at Manhattan with
the Indian, it was desirable to shorten proceedings here and re-

1657

396 Ecclesiastical Records

turn to the Manhattans to put things in order there. Secondly
because there was no Reformed preacher here, nor any who
understood their language, to be located there.

This Lutheran preacher (Lokenius) is a man of impious and
scandalous habits, a wild, drunken, unmannerly clown, more in-
clined to look into the wine can than into the Bible. He would
prefer drinking brandy two hours to preaching one ; and when the
sap is in the wood his hands itch and he wants to fight whomso-
ever he meets. The Commandant at Fort Casimir, Jean Paulus
Jacquet, brother-in-law of Domine Casparus Carpentier, told us,
that during last spring this preacher was tippling with a smith,
and while yet over their brandy they came to fisticuffs, and beat
each others heads black and blue; yea, that the smith tore all
the clothing from the preachers body, so that this godly minister
escaped in primitive nakedness, and although so poorly clothed,
yet sought quarrels with others. Sed hoc parergiocos.

On Long Island there are seven villages, belonging to this
Province, of which three, Breuckelen, (Brooklyn) Amesfoort,
(Flatlands,) and Midwout (Flatbush) are inhabited by Dutch peo-
ple, who formerly used to come here (to ISTew Amsterdam) to
communion and other services to their great inconvenience. Some
had to travel for three hours to reach this place. Therefore,
when Domine Polheymus arrived here from Brazil, they called
him as preacher, which the Director-General and Council con-
firmed.

The four other \allages on Long Island, viz., Gravensand,
(Gravesend,) Middelburgh, (ISTewtOMm,) Ylissingen, (Flushing,)
and Heemstede are inhabited by Englishmen. The people of
Gravensand are considered Mennonites. The majority of them
reject the baptism of infants, the observance of the Sabbath, the
office of preacher, and any teachers of God's word. They say
that thereby all sorts of contentions have come into the world.
Whenever they meet, one or the other reads something to them.

OF THE State of ]^ew Yoek, 397

At Vlissingen, they formerly had a Presbyterian mmister
(Doughty) who was in agreement mth our own church. But at
present, many of them have become imbued with divers opinions
and it is with them " quot homines tot sententiae." They began
to absent themselves from the sermon and would not pay the
preacher the salai-y promised to him. He was therefore obliged
to leave the place and go to the English Virginias. They have
now been without a preacher for several years. Last year a
troublesome fellow, a cobbler from Ehode Island in JSTew Eng-
land, came there saying, he had a commission from Christ. He
began to preach at Vlissingen and then went with the people into
the river and baptized them. When this became known here, the
Eiscal went there, brought him to this place, and he was banished
from the Province.

At Middelburgh, alias E'ewtown, they are mostly Independents
and have a man, called Joannes Moor of the same way of think-
ing, who preaches there, but does not serve the sacraments. He
says, he was licensed in ISTew England to preach, but not author-
ized to administer the sacraments. He has thus continued for
some years. Some of the inhabitants of this village are Presby-
terians, but they cannot be supplied by a Presbyterian preacher.
Indeed, we do not know that there are any preachers of this de-
nomination to be found among any of the English of New Eng-
land.

At Heemstede, about seven Dutch miles (twenty one English
miles) from here, there live some Independents. There are also
many of our own church, and some Presbyterians. They have a
Presb}i;erian preacher, Richard Denton, a pious, godly and
learned man, who is in agreement with our church in everything.
The Independents of the place listen attentively to his sermons;
but when he began to baptize the children of parents, who are
not members of the church, they rushed out of the church.

On the west shore of the East River, about one mile beyond

1657

398 Ecclesiastic Ai. Records

Hellgate, as we call it, and opposite Flushing, is another English
village, called Oostdorp, which was begun two years ago. The in-
habitants of this place are also Puritans or Independents. !N^either
have they a preacher, but they hold meetings on Sunday, and
read a sermon of some English 'UT-iter, and have a prayer.

About eighteen (Dutch) miles (fifty four English miles) up the
l^orth River, half way between the Manhattans and Rensselaer
or Beverwyck, lies a place, called by the Dutch Esopus or Sypous,
and by the Indians, Atharhacton. It is an exceedingly fine coun-
try there. Thereupon some Dutch families settled there who are
doing very well. They hold Sunday meetings and then one or
the other of them reads from the Postilla.

Such is the condition of the church in our Province. To this
we must add, that, as far as we know, not one of all these places,
Dutch or English has a schoolmaster, except the Manhattans,
Beverwyck, and now also Eort Casimir on the South River. And
although some parents try to give their children some instruction,
the success is far from satisfactory, and we can expect nothing
else than young men of foolish and undisciplined minds. We see
at present no way of improving this state of affairs ; first, because
some of the villages are just starting, and have no means, the
people having come half naked and poor from Holland, to pay a
preacher and schoolmaster ; secondly, because there are few quali-
fied persons here who can or will teach.

We can say but little of the conversion of the heathens or In-
dians here, and see no way to accomplish it, until they are sub-
dued by the numbers and power of our people, and reduced to
some sort of civilization; and also unless our people set them a
better example, than they have done heretofore.

We have had an Indian here vdth us for about two years. He
can read and write Dutch very well. We have instructed him in
the fundamental principles of our religion, and he answers pub-
licly in church, and can repeat the Commandments. We have

OP THE State of Kew Yokk. 399

1667

given him a Bible, hoping he might do some good among the In-
dians, but it all resulted in nothing. He took to drinking brandy,
he pawned the Bible, and turned into a regular beast, doing more
harm than good among the Indians.

Closing we commend your Reverences to the gracious protec-
tion of the Almighty, whom we pray to bless you in the Sacred
Ministry. Vestri et officio et afFectu,

Johannes Megapolensis.

Samuel Drissius.
Amsterdam, in ISTew ISTetherland,
the 5th of August, 1657.

(Compare this translation with one found in Doc. Hist. N. Y.
iii. 69-72; 4to ed.)

[The following Postscript to the above letter, nine days after,
is not given in Documentary History. It is as follows : — ]

Reverend, Pious, Very Learned Fathers and Brethren in Christ : —
Just after closing our recent letter of August 5th, it happened
that on Augiist 6tli (or 12th) a ship came from the sea to this
place, and approached the Fort, having no flag flying from the
topmast, nor from any other place on the ship; only from the fore-
mast a small burgee floated to indicate the \\'ind. We could not
decide whether she was Dutch, French, or English. They fired
no salute before the fort, as is usual with ships on their arrival.
When the Fiscal went on board, they tendered him no honor or
respect. When the master of the ship came on shore and appeared
before the Director-General, he rendered him no respect, but stood
still with his hat firm on his head, as if a goat. The Director-
General could with difficulty get a word from any of them. Ho
only learned that they had come from London in about eight
weeks. When asked as to the condition of Holland, France, etc.,
hardly a word could l)e drawn from them. xVt last information
was gained that it was a ship ^nth Quakers on board. The fol-
lowing morning early they hoisted anchor and sailed eastward, to-

400 Ecclesiastical Records

1657

wards Hellgatej as we call it, in the direction of jSTew England.
We suppose they went to Ehode Island; for that is the receptacle
of all sorts of riff-raff people, and is nothing else than the sewer^
(latrina) of JSTew England. All the cranks of iSTew England retire
thither. "We suppose they will settle there, as they are not tol-
erated by the Independents in any other place. Last year there
also arrived at Boston, in l^ew England, several of these Quakers^
but they were immediately put in prison and then sent back in the
same ship. Probably fearing the same thing, these Quakers came
this way, and then passed on. But they did not pass from us so
hastily, as not to leave some evidences of their having been here,,
for they left behind two strong young women. As soon as the
ship had fairly departed, these began to quake and go into a
frenzy, and cry out loudly in the middle of the street, that men
should repent, for the day of judgment was at hand. Our people
not knowing what was the matter, ran to and fro, while one cried
" Eire ", and another something else. The Fiscal, with an ac-
companying officer, seized them both by the head, and led them
to prison. On their way to jail, they continued to cry out and
pray according to their manner, and continued to do the same
when in prison. We perceive from this circumstance that the
devil is the same everywhere. The same instruments which he
uses to disturb the churches in Europe, he employs here in Amer-
ica. We trust that our God will baffle the designs of the devil^
and preserve us in the truth, and bring to nothing these machina-
tions of Satan. Einally, we commend your Reverences to the pro-
tection of the Moat, High, while we beseech him to bless us all in
the ministry, to the edification of his church.

Your dutiful servants,
Joannes Megapolensis.
Samuel Drisius.
Amsterdam, in New Netherland,
August 14th, 1657.

or THE State of New Yoek. 401

1657, Aug. 10.

Evert Pietersen, Schoolmaster at South Kiver, Delaware, to the
Commissioiiers in Fort Amstel, South Eiver, 'New ISTether-
land.

We arrived here on April 25th (1657). I find twenty fami-
lies, mostly Swedes. ]^ot more than five or six families belong to
our nation. I have already begun to keep school, and have twenty
five children, etc.

Your Honor's most obedient servant,

Evert Pietersen.

1657, Aug. 12th.

Evert Pietersen to the Reverend, Learned, Pious Domine Hendric
Ruileus, minister of Jesus Christ in the flourishing congrega-
tion of the City of Amsterdam.

Domine Hendric Euileus :
Emanuel !

Reverend Brother in Christ Jesus. Wishing you all bodily
and spiritual blessing in Jesus Christ, I hope this will find you
and your family in good health. I thank the Lord heartily for
my own health. We have received very joyful news by the ships
which have arrived from the Fatherland at the Manhattans, or at
New Amstel. We learn " De Wagh " is coming with a galiot,
bringing about four hundred people, among whom is the preacher,
called Johannis (Everardus?) Weelius, and also ray son, Arent
E^ertsen, a miller who comes over as super cargo. It makes me
very glad, to see my children thus prospering. My son Jan Evert-
sen, goes daily to the office of the Director to write, for which he
receives his thanks. He is on the road to success. We look with
longing for the arrival of this ship " De Wagh " and trust that
under Divine Providence, we shall soon hear of her arrival. If
any mishap should befnll her, wo would suffer n groat famine this
26

1657

402 ECOLESIASTIOAL ReCOKDS

winter. I must further tell you, that I am engaged in keeping
school, with twenty five children in it; but I have no paper nor
pens for the use of the children, nor slates and pencils. As soon
as winter begins and they can no longer work on the soil, old and
young will come to school, and learn to read, write (and cipher).
But I have nothing, from which to teach them. To keep school
here, is something of a novelty, as it has not been done before.
The books mentioned on the enclosed memorandum, please to take
care that they be sent by the first ship, for I am especially in need
of them. Please to speak to van Beeck, as to the price at which
I am to sell them. Let the paper and books be packed separately,
for if they get into the Directors hands, we cannot get them.
I must also respectfully request you, to be kind enough to go with
my wife to van Beeck, and ask him to help her to get one hun-
dred and fifty guilders of my already earned wages, and which
must now stand to my credit; for I receive forty guilders per
month. This will assist her in making provision for the winter,
by buying meats, bacon, turf and wood. Otherwise she could not
get along decently with the children, but would perish in sorrow.
I have also written to van Beeck, that our steward, Cors. Jansen,
has robbed the magazine. He was caught at it by the soldiers and
banished from the river for twenty one years, and neither he nor
his children may enter into any public service. I expect a letter
from you next spring, with information in it of what our colonists
write home, as great complaints are heard here against our Di-
rector. He does not observe the ninth and twenty fifth articles;
for the colonists are obliged to buy everything at fixed prices, wljen
they need anything. They are also put on rations ; seven pounds
of bread ; four of wheat, two cups (pints) of ground barley ; one
cup of peas, one pound of codfish, per week; a child on half ra-
tions ; one quart of oil, half a pint of vinegar ; but the men, who
go to work in the woods daily, cannot live on this. Hence there is
a great deal of murmuring. One has written this, and another

OF THE &rATE OF N^EW YOKK. 403

1657

that, to their friends at home. So much discontent has been cre-
ated, that about thirty families, living at the Manhattans, who were
ready to come here to the South Eiver, have remained in their
places, because of the ill-intentioned writing from here, that the
people suffered hunger. I fear that such rumors circulating in
the Fatherland, will stay this good work. Write me also of the
war between the Swedes and Danes, and send a part of the
Gazettes, that I may have something else to read. Herewith clos-
ing and commending you to God's protection I salute you, with
your dear wife and children, most heartily. Please to send the
enclosed letter to my wife.

Your friend,

Mr. Evert Pietersen.
Dated the 12th of Augiist, 1657,
at Fort New Amstel, on the South Eiver
in New Netherland.

Synod of North Holland, at Haarlem.

1657, Aug. 13 et seq.
Art. 2. Register.

According to Article 55, of the preceding Synod: This speaks
of the well known Register-book, and refers to the inserting of
resolutions and apostillen in the Acta of Synod.

After this, it was resolved to hold this matter in abeyance, until
the respective Classes could bring in resolutions on that point to
this Synod at the beginning thereof. These having been read,
it was found that the Classes, by a majority of votes, declared
that henceforth the Register-book, as begun two years ago, (1655),
shall remain in esse; and that only the summaries of the Remon-
strances (Memorials) and Petitions shall be inserted in the Acta
of Synod ; but the resolutions and apostillen in plena forma.

1657

404 Ecclesiastical Records

Article 35.

Extracts concerning the state of the Indian and other foreign
churches, handed in to the Rev. Synod, and read by the Rev.
Classis of Amsterdam:

The Lutherans in ISTew ISTetherland, having attempted the pub-
lic exercises of their religion, have been opposed therein with good
endeavors, and not without fair success.

Sent to 'New ISTetherland as a minister. Rev. Everardus Welius^
in April 1657; as siekentrooster and school-master, Aert Pieter-
sen, in December 1658 (1656?)

Sent as siekentrooster to the East Indies, in October 1656,
John Walraven.

Father Simon Le Moyne.

, 1657, Aug. 26.

This Missionary, Pere Le Moyne,* had followed some Christian Hurons into
the Mohawk territory, and took occasion soon after to visit New Amsterdam,
for the purpose of affording spiritual comfort to the Catholics residing in that
city, as well as to some French sailors who had recently arrived with a prize
at that port. The Dutch, always alive to the extension of their commerce,
seized the occasion of this visit to demand permission to visit the St. Lawrence
for the purpose of trade, and solicit Le Moyne to represent their wishes to the
Governor of Canada. The Jesuit's representations were crowned with success.
The Canadian Governor consented that New Netherland vessels should hence-
forward resort to Quebec, on the same terms as French ships, with this reserve,
however, that the Dutch should not participate in the Indian trade, nor be

* " This Simon Le Moyne has been with Indians from the Indian country several
times at Fort Orange. At last he came here to the Jilauhattans, without doubt,
on account of tlie Papists residing here, and especially for the accommodatioa
of the French sailors, who are Papists, and who have arrived here with a good
prize." Rev. Domine Megapolensis to the Classis of Amsterdam. On his return
to Fort Orange, the Jesuit wrote three essays: 1. On the Succession of the
Popes; 2. On the Council; 3. On Heretics; which he sent to Rev. Mr. Megapo-
lensis with a letter commending them to his study, adding. " that Christ hanging
on the wood of the cross was still ready to receive his repentance," (or conver-
sion.) The Dutch Domine sent an answer by a yacht then on the eve of sailing
from New Amsterdam for Canada. But the vessel was lost, and so Pere Le
Moyne never received this reply to his " Catalogos." [See letter of Megapolensis
to Classis, Sept. 28, 1658, and also his reply to Le Moyne, a copy of which he
made and sent to Holland and is now in the Archives of General Synod — nine
closely written pages.] See letter of September 28, 1658.

OF THE State of I^ew York. 405

allowed the public exercise of their relation in that country. As this proviso
was merely a counterpart of the rules which the Dutch themselves prescribed
In their province, they did not object; on the contrary, they hastened to talie
advantage of the " happy and fortunate," circumstances, and prepared to " plough
with their craft " the waters of the St. Lawrence. — O'Callaghan's History of
New Netherland, vol. 11., 363.

Acts of the Classis of Amsterdam.

Rev. Henr. Selyns.

1657, Sept. 3rd.

Rev. Henricus Seljns asks that he may be examined prepara-
toir (for licensure) This was granted him upon his praiseworthy
credentials ecclesiastical as well as academic. — vi. 74.

Rev. Henr. Selyns.

1657, Oct. 2nd.

Rev. Henricus Selyns having made his exposition, (preached
his sermon) on John 5 :39, Search the scriptures, etc. and hav-
ing then been examined in the principal articles of the Christian
Reformed Religion, gave such very great satisfaction to the Assem-
bly, both by his preaching and by his answers to the questions of
the Rev. Examiner, that he was admitted to the public ministry
(preaching) after the signing of the Acta (the Formulae) re-
quired. — vi. 79.

Petition of the Lutherans to the Governor and Council of
ITew ^NTetherland, Oct, 10, 1657.

To the ISToble Honorable Director-General, and the Council of New
N'etherland : —
With all due respect, we, the adherents of the Unaltered Augs-
burg Confession, here in New Netherland, and under the judisdic-
tion of the Lords Principals of the West India Company, hereby
show, that the Burgomasters of this City of Amsterdam in New
Netherland, have received an order from your Honors, first, by
the City Messenger Gysbert op Dyck, and shortly after by the
Honorable Fiscal, Nicasius de Sille, to the Rev. Master in The-

1657

406 Ecclesiastical Records

ologj, Johannis Ernestus Gutwasser, that lie must and shall de-
part in the ship, the "Waag", (the Balance), now ready to sail.
Wherefore, in paying our respects to your Honors, we beg to say
that in accordance with your Honors orders and public announce-
ments he has behaved as an honest man, and has never refused
obedience to your orders and edicts, but has always given good heed
to them; and we too, have behaved quietly and obediently, while
we expect from higher authority, the toleration of our religion —
that of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, To this result we
still look forward after receipt of another letter to us.

We humbly supplicate your Honors, that the sudden orders,
the one by the City Messenger, and the other by the Fiscal, to
Domine Johannis Ernestus Goetwasser, may be revoked by your
Honors, until we receive further orders from their High Mighti-
nesses, our sovereigns, and from the Noble Lord Directors of the
Privileged West India Company. Remaining your Honors' faith-
ful and watchful (servants) and good Christians, all adherents
of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, and having been admitted
into New Netherland, we, in the absence of the others, have signed
this petition: Mattheus Capito, Christian Niesen, Harmen Edu-
warsen, Hans Dreper, Lourens Andriesen, Luycas Dircksen, XX
Jan Jansen, XX Jochem Beeckman, Andries Rees, Luycas Elder-
sen, Harmen Jansen, Jan Cornelisse, Davidt Wessels, Hans Sille-
javck, Hendrick Hendricksen, XX Meyndert Barentsen, Harmen
Smeeman, Cristian Barentsen, George Hanel, Pieter Jansen, XX
Winckelhoeck, Claes de Wit, XX Jacob Elders, Hendrick Wil-
lemee. We await your Honors favorable decision. Amsterdam,
in New Netherland, this 10th day of October, Anno 1657.

As answer this may serve: that the Director-General and the
Council do not recognize the Unaltered Augsburg Confession,
much less any of the adherents of it. They confirm, therefore,
hereby, their order and resolution of the 4th of September, sent
to Johannis Ernestus Goetwasser, who calls himself a Lutheran

OF THE State of ]^ew York. 407

1657

preacher, at Amsterdam, in 'New ISTetherland. Since that order,
five or six weeks ago, two ships have sailed, on board of one of
which the said Goesswater was ordered to depart. x\s he has
treated the order of this Provincial Government with contempt,
he is hereby once again commanded to leave with one of the ships
now ready to sail. The Director-General and Council consider
this necessary for the glory of God, for the success of the Re-
formed Religion, and the common quiet, peace and harmony of
this Province. Thus done at the meeting of the Honorable Di-
rector-General and the Council, held at Fort Amsterdam in New
ISTetherland on the 16th of October 165Y. By order of the Hon.
Director-General and Council aforesaid.

C. V. Ruyven, Secretary.

Having compared the foregoing petition and order, it is found

correct.

C. V. Ruyven, Secretary.

Rev. J. H. Gutwasser, Lutheran Minister^ to the Governor

AND Council.

1657, Oct. 15th.

To the jSToble, Honorable Director-General and the Honorable
Council of New Netherland : —
In answer to the repeated verbal and written denunciations or
orders to me, to depart from here within three times twenty four
hours, I wish humbly to submit to your Honors for your favor-
able hearing and decision, a very few points, as follows :

1. That I do not deny your Honors' declaration, as expressed,
that I desire to be free from charges of disobedience.

2. But also I do not consent to defend myself in such a troubled
state of conscience.

3. Therefore I would like to know, why this order has been
issued against me.

4. For I have exhibited my passports, and therewith the per-
mission of the Lords Directors, who promise me still other favors.

1657

403 Ecci^siASTiCAL Records

5. The special permission from your Honors, to live here, as a
free student is nowhere canceled.

6. What has been asked, is, will and shall be mediis lieites via
consessa et at competentis personas, also done here.

Y. I have behaved myself here in such a way that I cannot be
accused of Crimen Laesae Majestatis.

8. ISTeither shall any evil be done by me hereafter.

9. While I am waiting for further orders from Holland, ac-
cording to promise.

10. I find myself worried about my affairs ; for I cannot wisely
handle my property, scattered here and there, in obedience to your
sudden order. I am also of opinion, that much depends on my
reputation and habits (fama et vita), which would be endangered
by the order given me, and which your Honors must also consider.

I desire to inform your Honors, as to my humble opinions on
few points; Your Honors will please to consider justly the fore-
going points, and not carry out their unexpected sentence against
me. Awaiting your Honors' favorable decision,
Amsterdam in l^ew !N^etherland, the 15th of October 1657.

Your IToble Honors,

John Ernestus Gutwasser.

The foregoing request was handed in to the meeting of Di-
rector-General and Council and having been read, the following
decision was given.

The petitioner, who forgets himself and the truth, is reminded,
that the order for his departure was served upon him five or six
weeks ago, and sent in writing. Since that time two ships have
sailed. In one of these he ought to have left, according to order,
but the petitioner has neglected to do this, in contempt of the
government. He is once more commanded to obey said order by
going in one of the two ships about to sail; especially as the Di-
rector-General and Council consider it necessary for the honor of
God, the advancement of the Reformed Religion, and the common

OF THE State of JSTew Yoke. 409

quietness, peace and harmony of this place. Thus done at Fort
Amsterdam in !N"ew jSTetherland, the 16th of October, Anno 1657.
By order of the Honorable Director-General and Council;

C. V. Kuyven, Secretary.

Correspondence from America.

165Y, Oct. 25th.

Eevs. Megapolensis and Drisius to the Classis of Amsterdam.
Brethren in Christ : —

Since our last letter, which we hope you are receiving about
this time, we have sent in a petition, in relation to the Lutheran
minister, Joannes Ernestus Gutwasser. Having marked this on it3
margin, we have sent it to the Rev. Brethren of the Classis. We
hope that the Classis will take care that, if possible, no other
(minister) be sent over, as it is easier to send out an enemy than
afterward to thrust him out. We have the promise that the magis-
trates here will compell him to leave with the ship De Wage. It
is said that there has been collected for him at Fort Orange a
hundred beaver skins, which are valued here at eight hundred
guilders, and which is the surest pay in this country. What has
been collected here, (at New Amsterdam), we cannot tell. Our
magistrates have forbidden him to preach, as he has received no
authority from the Directors for that purpose. Yet we hear that
the Hon. Directors at Amsterdam gave him permission to come
over. We have stated in a previous letter the injurious tendency
of this with reference to the prosperity of our church.

Lately we have been troubled by others. Sometime since, a
shoemaker, leaving his wife and children, came here and preached
in conventicles. He was fined, and not being able to pay, was
sent away. Again a little while ago there arrived here a ship with
Quakers, as they are called. They went away to New England,
or more particularly, to Rhode Island, (a place) of errorists and
enthusiasts. It is called by the English themselves the Latrina
of New England. They left several behind them here, who labored

1657

410 Ecclesiastical Records

1657

to create excitement and tumult among the people, — particularly
two women, the one about twenty, and the other about twenty
eight. These were quite outrageous. After being examined and
placed in prison, they were sent away. Subsequently a young
man at Hempstead, an English town under the government, aged
about twenty three or twenty four years, was arrested, and brought
thence, seven (Dutch) miles, (twenty one English miles.) He
had pursued a similar course and brought several under his influ-
ence. The magistrate, in order to repress the evil in the begin-
ning, after he had kept him in confinement for several days, ad-
judged that he should either pay one hundred guilders or work
at the wheelbarrow (Kruywagen) two years with the negroes.
This he obstinately refused to do, though whipped on his back.
After two or three days he was whipped in private on his bare
back, with threats that the whipping would be repeated again after
two or three days, if he should refuse to labor. Upon this a letter
was brought by an unknown messenger from a person unknown to
the Director-General. The import of this, (written in English),
was, Think, my Lord-Director, whether it be not best to send him
to Rhode Island, as his labor is hardly worth the cost. Since the
arrival of De Wage from the South River (the Director?) has
again written to Joannes Ernestus Gutwasser to go away. On
this he presented a petition, a copy of which is herewith trans-
mitted, as also a copy (signed by) several of the Lutheran denomi-
nation. "We observe that it is signed by the least respectable of
that body, and that the most influential among them were un-
willing to trouble themselves with it. Some assert that he has
brought with him authority from the West India Company to act
as minister. Whether dismission and return will take place with-
out trouble remains to be seen. We are at this time in great want
of English ministers. It is more than two years since Mr. Doughty,
of Flushing which is a town here, went to Virginia, where he is
now a preacher. He left because he was not well supported. On
Oct. 13, Mr. Moore, of Middleburg, which is another town here,
died of a pestilential disease, which prevailed in several of our

OF THE State of ITew York. 411

English towns, and in 'Nevf England. He left a widow with seven
or eight children. A year before, being dissatisfied with the
meagre and irregular payments from his hearers, he went to Bar-
badoes, to seek to find another place. Mr. Richard Denton, who
is sound in faith, of a friendly disposition, and beloved by all,
cannot be induced by us to remain, although we have earnestly
tried to do this in various ways. He first went to Virginia to seek
a situation, complaining of lack of salary, and that he was getting
in debt, but he has returned thence. He is now fully resolved
to go to old England, because his wife, who is sickly, will not
go without him, and there is need of their going there, on account
of a legacy of four hundred pounds sterling, lately left by a de-
ceased friend, and which they cannot obtain except by their per-
sonal presence. At Gravesend there never has been a minister.
Other settlements, yet in their infancy, as Aernem, have no min-
ister. It is therefore to be feared that errorists and fanatics may
find opportunity to gain strength. We therefore request you, Rev.
Brethren, to solicit the Hon. Directors of the West India Com-
pany, to send over one or two English preachers, and that direc-
tions may be given to the magistracy that the money paid by the
English be paid to the magistrate, and not to the preacher, which
gives rise to dissatisfaction, and that at the proper time, any ex-
isting deficiency may be supplied by the Hon. Directors. Other-
wise we do not see how the towns will be able to obtain ministers,
or if they obtain them, how they will be able to retain them. Com-
plaints continually reach us about the payment of ministers.
!N'evertheless in ISTew England, there are few places without a
preacher, although there are many to\ras stretching for more than
one hundred Dutch miles (three hundred English miles) along
the coast. Hoping that by God's blessing and your care something
may be effected in this matter, we remain,

Your friends and fellow laborers,

Johannes Megapolensis.
Manhattans, Samuel Drisius.

Oct. 22, 1657.

1657

412 Ecclesiastical Recoeds

Eev. Brethren : —

Since the writing of the above letter, and before sealing it, we
have learned from the Hon. Directors and the Fiscal, that Joannes
Ernestus Gutwasser is not to be found, that his bedding and books
were two days ago removed, and that he has left our jurisdiction.
Still it is our opinion that he remains concealed here, in order to
write home, and make his appearance (as if) out of the Father-
land; and to persevere with the Lutherans in his efforts. We
therefore hope and pray that you may, if possible, take measures
to prevent this.
Oct. 25, 165Y. Samuel Drisius.

To the Eev. Learned, etc.,
the Deputies ad res Indicas
of the Classis of Amsterdam.

(Kames of Dutch immigrants for 1657. Doc. Hist. ]!T. Y.
iii. 33.)

Remonstrance of the Inhabitants of Flushing, L. L, Against
THE Law Against Quakers and Subsequent Proceedings by
THE Government Against Them and Others Favoring
Quakers.

Right Honorable. Tou have been pleased to send up unto us a certain Pro-
hibition or Command, that wee shoulde not receive or entertalne any of those
people called Quakers, because thay are supposed to bee by some seducers of the
people; for our parte wee cannot condem them in this case, neither can wee
stretch out our hands against them to punish, bannish or persecute them, for out
of Christ, God is a consuming fire, and it Is a fearful thing to fall into the"
handes of the liveing God; wee desire therefore In this case not to judge least wee
be judged, neither to Condem least wee bee Condemed, but rather let every man
stand and fall to his own. Maister wee are bounde by the Law to doe good unto
all men, especially to those of the Household of faith; and though for the present
wee seeme to bee unsensible of the law and the Lawgiver; yet when death and the
Law assault us: if we have (not) our advocate to seeke, who shall plead for us in
this case of Conscience betwixt God and our own soules; the powers of this world
can neither attack us neither excuse us, for if God justify who can Condem, and
if God Condem there is none can justifye; and for those Jealowsles and suspitions
which some haue of them that they are destructive unto Magistracy and Ministry
that cannot bee; for the Magistrate hath the Sword in his hand and the Minister
hath the Sword In his hand as witnesse those tow great examples which all
Maiestrates and Ministers are to follow M (oses) and Christ; whom God raised
up Maintained and defended against all the Enemies both of flesh and spirit, and
therefore that wich is of God will stand, and that which Is of man will (come) to

OF THE State of ISTew Yokk.

413

1658

noethlng: and as the Lord hath taught Moses, or the Civlll power, to give an
outward llbertle In the State by the law written in his heart designed (for) the
good of all and can truly Judge who is good and who is evill, who is true and who
is false, and can pass deflnltiue sentence of life or (death) against that man which
rises up against the fundamental law of the States Generall, soe (he) hath made
his Ministers a savor of life unto (life?), and a savor of death unto death.

The law of lone, peace and iibertie In the states extending to Jews, Turks and
Egyptians, as they are considered the sonnes of Adam, which is the glory of the
outward State of Holland; so loue, peace and iibertie extending to all in Christ
Jesus, Condems hatred, warre and bondage; and because our Savior saith It Is
impossible but that offence will come, but woe be unto h'im by whom they
Commeth, our desire is not to offend one of his little ones in whatsoever forme,
name or title hee appreares in, whether Presbyterian, Independent, Baptist or
Qualier; but shall be glad to see anything of God in any of them: deslreing to doe
unto all men as wee desire all men should doe unto us, which is the true law both
of Church and State; for our Saviour saith this is the Law and the Prophets;
Therefore if any of these said persons come in loue unto us, wee cannot in Con-
science lay violent hands upon them, but give them free Egresse into our Towne
and howses as God shall perswade our Consciences; and in this we are true sub-
jects both of the Church and State; for wee are bounde by the law of God and
man to do good unto all men, and evill to no man; and this is according to the
Pattent and Charter of our Towne given unto us in the name of the States Gen-
erall which we are not willing to infringe and violate but shall hold to our pattent
and shall remaine your Humble Subjects the Inhabitants of Vlishing; written the
27th of December in the Yeare 1657 by mee

The Marke

The Marke
The Marke

Edward Heart, Clericus.

Tobias Peake,
of William Noble,

William Thorne, Sr.
of William Thorne, Jr.

Edward Tarne?

John Storer,

Nathaniel Heflferd,

Benjamin Hubbard,
of William Pidgion,
of George Clere,

Ellas Doughtie,

Antonie Peild,

Richard Stocton,

Edward Grifflne,

Nathaniel Tue,

Nicolas Blackford,
of Micah Tue,
of Phlllpp Ud,

Edward Ffarlngton,

Robert Ffleld, Sr.

Robert Ffleld, Jr.

Nick Colas Parsell,

Michael Milner,

Henry Towiiseud,

George Wright,

John Foard,

Henry Samtell,

Edward Heart,

John Mastlne,

John Towuesend.

First of January, 1658.

1658

414 EcciiESiASTiCAL Recokds

The foregoing remonstrance delivered to tiis Honor, the Director General, by the
Schout, Tobias Feake of Vlissingen, on the 29th of December, having read, his-
Honor immediately ordered the Fiscal to arrest the said Schout, which was done.

On the first of January 1658, summoned by their Honors, the Director General
and Council, appeared Edward Farrington and William Noble, two of the Magis-
trates of Vlissingen, who likewise signed the foregoing remonstrance and were
immediately arrested. It was further resolved, to summon also the Clerk of the
said village Edward Hart. Date as above.

Thursday, the 3rd of January 1658.— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 402, 403, 404.— We
omit the Cross-Examination. pp. 404-409.

Court Minutes of !N^ew Amsterdam.

1658, January 21.
Proclamation of a Day of Prayer for March 13.

The Honorable Nicasius de Sille brought into Court the Proclamation of the day
of Prayer, and it is read from the City Hall after the usual ringing of the bell; in
terms as follows: —

Honorable and well beloved.

Notwithstanding the good and all merciful God has favoured and blessed this
newly rising Province in general and its Inhabitants in particular with many and
innumerable mercies and benefits; amongst others with health, peace and pros-
perity, abundance, remarkable increase of population and trade, and what is to be
valued above all, with the free and public exercise of the pure worship of God;,
Yet, we, either enjoying the same thanklessly, or abusing them unworthily, have
by the ungrateful use of bodily, or the unworthy abuse of spiritual benefits, pro-
voked God's rigorous justice, exciting his Divine Majesty — never suflSciently
honored — to righteous anger, of which he hath shewn us not only palpable signs,
but has caused us also to witness evident proofs; He hath visited near and remote
places, towns and hamlets with hot fevers and dangerous diseases, as a chastise-
ment if not punishment of the thankless use of temporal blessings; permitting and
allowing the Spirit of Error to scatter its injurious passion amongst us, in spiritual
matters here and there, rising up and propagating a new unheard of, abominable
Heresy, called Quakers; seeking to seduce many, yea, were it possible, even the
true believers — all signs of God's just judgement and certain forerunners of severe
punishment.

To ward these off from us and our's and to obtain God's favours, benefits and
blessings for us as well in temporal as in spiritual matters, the Director General
and Council of New Netherland, have deemed it good and needful to prescribe and
publish a Day of General Fast and Thanksgiving to be observed on the second
Wednesday of the month of March, being the 13th of said month.

We therefore charge our subjects to repair on the fore and afternoon of the
aforesaid day to Church or where God's Word is usually preached in order, after
hearing the same, to praise and thank the all good and merciful God, for the
favors, blessings and benefits, which his Divine Majesty hath been pleased to confer
on us during the last year, yea, in the whole course of our lives, and further to
supplicate, pray and implore His Holy Name, with humble and contrite hearts, that
his Divine Majesty would be pleased to continue the same to us, the ensuing year,
to the Honour of His Name, to the furtherance and propagation of the Gospel, and
the prosperity and salvation of us all.

That this may be performed with great devotion and unity, the Director General
and Council prohibit, during divine service on the said day of Prayer and Thanks-
giving, all exercises and amusements, tennis, ballplaying, hunting, fishing, sailing;
also all unlawful plays such as gaming, dice playing, drunkenness and such like,
on pain of arbitrary punishment and correction previously enacted against the

OF THE State of New York. 415

same. We also admonish and require all Ministers within our jurisdiction to frame
their prayers and sermons to the said end. Thus done in our Assembly holden In
Fort Amsterdam in New Netherland the 21st January Anno 1658.

Was undersigned, P. Stuyvesant.

Lower Stood, By Order of the Honorable Director

General and Council of New Netherland.

C. V. Ruyven, Secretary.
— Records of New Amsterdam, Vol. ii. pp. 346, 347.

Sentence of Tobias Feaks, Schout of Flushing, for Harbor-
ing Quakers.

Whereas Tobias Feaks, a resident of Vllssingen on Long Island now a prisoner,
has confessed and acknowledged, that he received an order from the Honorable
Director General, not to admit, lodge and entertain in the said village any one of
the heretical and abominable sect called Quakers, but has nevertheless had the
audacity, in contempt of the said order and formerly published and renewed
placats, to be a leader and instigator in the conception of a seditious, mutinous and
detestable letter of defiance (chartebel) signed by himself and his complices and by
him retained and then delivered to the Director General, wherein they justify and
uphold the abomniable sect of Quakers, who vilify both the political authorities and
the Ministers of the Gospel, and undermine the State and God's service, and abso-
lutely demand, that all sects, especially the said abominable and heretical sect of
Quakers shall and must be tolerated and admitted; all of which is directly contrary
and repugnant to the above referred to orders and placats of the Director General
and Council, which he pursuant to his oath, official position and duty, as a sub-
ordinate officer of the Director General and Scout in the said village of Vllssingen,
should by all means have upheld and enforced.

But whereas he has herein not only failed, but has himself transgressed and dis-
obeyed, for which as an example to others he deserves severe punishment; yet con-
sidering the humble petition of the prisoner Feaks, confessing his wrong doing and
promising hereafter to avoid such errors:

Therefore the Director General and Council of New Netherland, administering the
law in the name of their High: Might: the Lords States General of the United
Netherlands, and the Lords Directors of the Trivlleged West India Company, first
dismiss the said Tobias Feaks from his otfice as Scout of the said village of Vlls-
singen, and banish him from this Province of New Netherland; or to pay a fine of
two hundred florins to be applied as directed by law. If he will keep his promise,
together with the costs and niises of law.

Done at Fort Amsterdam in New Netherland the 28th of January 1658.

P. Stuyvesant.
Pieter Tonueman.
— Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 409.

Petition of the Magistrates of Midwout, (Flatbush, L. I.)
AS to the Disposition to be Made of the Churchland and
Order of Council Thereon.

To their Noble Very Worshipful Honors, Petrus Stuyvesant and the High Council
of New Netherland. Show with due humility and reverence the Schepons of the
Court of Midwout, that heretofore they have several times requested and shown,
how necessary and useful in easing th(> burdens of the village and the congregation
the four Church lots would be, If granted to the village of Midwout; whereupon at
last your Honors directed, that a further report In writing and a statement of the
manner, In which the said Church lots were to be administered, was required.

1658

416 Ecclesiastical Records

We submit therefore to your Honors as our report and further explanation: we
believe, under correction, that the best measures for the advantage of the con-
gregation and the village of Midwout are as stated here below:

First. That twenty five morgens with their appurtenances lying on the east side
of the plain and south side of the road be used for the repairs and maintenance of
the Church.

Second. That another lot of twenty five morgens lying also on the east side of
the market place and north side of the road with their appurtenances and privileges
be used for the support of a school, divine service etc. If your Honors approve and
consent, the necessary means thereto shall be found.

Third. The remaining fifty morgens lying on the west side should necessarily be
added to the parsonage, but we cannot well decide, which is the most requisite and
best use for them. The further explanation of this point, quite lengthy, is sub-
stantially a request to be excused from contributing to the support of their Minister,
until the tithes for their village became due; I have abbreviated it here, because
the deputies from Midwout took the petition and answer directly away and I had
therefore no time to copy it entirely. It was signed Jan Strycker, Adriaen Hege-
man, Willem Jacobse van Boerum and below stood By order of the Schepens of the
Court of Midwout, Pieter Tonneman, Secretary.

Having received and read the foregoing petition the following answer was given:

We consent to the first two points regarding the lots and allow, that they be used
for the purposes and no other, which the petitioners propose and submit.

The Director General and Council agree, that the remaining two lots or fifty
morgens be used for the parsonage, to support as far as they will go, the present
and future Ministers.

The Director General and Council are of opinion, that the deficiency must bd
made up by the inhabitants according to their former promises and subscriptions
and continue so, until the tithes are due, when further orders concerning the sup-
port of the Minister shall be given.

Thus done in Council held at Fort Amsterdam in New Netheriand the 29th of
January 1658.

P. Stuyvesant.
Nicasius de Sille, P. Tonneman.
— Col. Docs. N. Y. xiv. 410.

Order on a Petition of Domine Polhemius, Minister at Mid-
wout, Long Island, Concerning His Salary.

January 29, 1658.

Received and read the remonstrance and request of Domine Johannes Theodorus
Polheym, preacher at Midwout, etc., on Long Island, who shows, that from the
month of October 1654 to the 7th of April 1656, the date of his agreement with
th^ inhabitants of the villages of Breuckelen, Midwout and Amesfoort, he has had
charge as pastor of the congregation and performed the duties connected with It as
well as he could, without however receiving from the inhabitants of said villages
any remuneration for it. Having arrived here from the Islands poor and without
means he has been compelled to draw, with the knowledge of Director General and
Council, from the Company's warehouse and office the necessaries of life, amount-
ing now to nine hundred and forty two florins. He requests therefore, that this
sum might be balanced against his services performed during the time, as above
stated, when he received no salary, so that his wife and children might not be|
troubled or asked to pay it at some future time.

Having taken this into consideration and being well aware, that the laborer is
worthy of his hire, that the petitioner served as pastor in the said villages from
the year 1654 to the 7th of April 1656, without receiving any pay from the in-

OF THE State of ISTew York. 417

habitants. The aforesaid amount of fl 942.6. — Is placed to his credit and the
book-keeper is directed to discharge this account for so much and to balance the
amount against the service, performed by the petitioner.
Date as above. p. Stuyvesant.

— Col. Docs. N. Y. xlv. 411, 412.

Classis of Amsterdam.
Acts of the Deputies. Meeting of Feb. llth, 1658. Rev. Mr.
Carpentier in the Chair.
A certain letter from the Eev. Mr. Schaats, pastor at Fort Or-
ange, in ISTew ISTetherland, was read. His Rev. therein gives notice
that the time of his service has expired. He complains of the
limited salary, but is well inclined to continue in his charge, pro-
vided the salary can be somewhat increased. Resolved, That the
Patroons of the colony of Rensselaerswyck be consulted in ref-
erence to this whole matter. This was done. The brethren found
affairs in such a condition, that nothing of consequence could at
present be done for us in this case. xx. 383.

Administrative Minutes of New Amsterdam.

1658, Feb. 26.
Election of Churchmaster and Orphan-master.
Extract from the Register of the Resolutions of the Honorable
Director General and Councillors of New Netherland adopted in
their Honorable Court Tuesday, 26th February Anno 1658. "*

Whereas one Orphan Master and one Church Master have
served out their time, and Burgomasters of this City have there-
fore nominated and proposed a double number of persons, with
request that Director General and Council should therefrom se-
lect others in place of the retiring: The Director General and
Council of ISTew ISTetherland do therefore elect and confirm from
the nominated, instead of the retiring

As Orphan Master :

Wilhelmus Beeckman.

As Church Master:

Hendrick Jansen vander Yin.

1658

418 Ecclesiastical Recobds

Thus done at the Assembly of the Honorable Director General
and Council aforesaid in Fort Amsterdam in 'New Netherland.
Ady, as above.

Agrees with the aforesaid Resolution.

C. Van Ruyven, Secretary.

Thursday, 28th February 1658. In the City Hall. Present
the Heeren Paulus Leendertsen van der Grift, Olof Stevensen
Cortlant.

Wbereas to the Court is exhibited the election made by Direc-
tor General and Council of the succeeding Orphan Master and
Churchmaster in place of the retiring: The elected Wilhelmus
Beeckman as Orphan Master and Hendrick Jansen van der Yin as
Churchmaster are sent for to Court, who appearing are informed
thereof and are accepted by the Burgomasters and wished luck in
their office.

Records of i^ew Amsterdam, Vol. vii. p. 175.

CouET MI^"UTES OF Xew Amsterdam.

Jacob van Corlaer not Allowed to Teach School.

To the Right Honorable Director General and Councillors of New Netherland.
Right Honorable Sirs,

The Burgomasters and Schepens of the City of Amsterdam in New Netherland
represent with all respect, that some Burghers and Inhabitants of the abovenamed
City have presented a certain petition to this Court whereunto copy Is hereunto
annexed, remonstrating that your Honors were pleased to notify Jacob Corlaar,
through the Fiscal Nicasius de Sille, not to keep any school; and as they the
petitioners find themselves greatly interested thereby, inasmuch as their children
forget, what the abovenamed Jacob van Corlaar had to their great satisfaction
previously taught them in reading, writing and cyphering, which was much more
than any other person, no one excepted; therefore they request that the above
named Corlaar may be allowed again to keep school; and although the abovenamed
Burgomasters and two Schepens have spoken verbally thereon to your Honors and
your Honors were not pleased to allow it, for reasons thereunto moving your
Honors; they therefore, in consequence of the humble supplication of the Burghers
and Inhabitants aforesaid, again request that your Honors may be pleased to per-
mit the abovenamed Corlaar again to keep school, which doing, we remain your
Honors Subjects,

The Burgomasters and Schepens.

In Amsterdam in New Netherland the 5th March, 1C5S.

By order of the Burgomasters and Schepens of the City aforesaid.

Joannes Nevius, Secretary.

OF THE State of New York. 419

On the 20th March received the apostllle of the petition which read as followe: —
School teaching and the Induction of School Masters depends absolutely from the
Jus Patronatus, by virtue of which the Director General and Council for pregnant
reasons Interdicted Jacob van Corlaar, he having presumed to take such on himself
without their Order. To which order and resolution they still adhere. Done
Fortress Amsterdam In New Netherland the 19th March, 1658.
By order of the Honorable Director General and Council of New Netherland.

C. V. Ruyven, Secretary.
— Records of New Amsterdam, Vol. U. p. 348.

Council Minute Schoolmaster ;

Tuesday, March 19, 1658.

Received the petition of the Burgomasters and Sebepens of this City requesting
that Jacobus van Corlear, to whom on the 19th of February last the Director
General and Council forbade to keep school, may receive permission to keep school.

It was decreed: To keep a school and aitpoint a schoolmaster depends absolutely
from the jus