Class. t'-i^S Book___-^-A3-E4- GoipgMW — COPVKIGHT DEPOSIR / ,i.'|''^" DEDICATED TO ALBANY'vS CHIEF HISTORIAN In grateful appreciation of his life-long, painstaking labors in the preservation of local records. He was born at Northfield, Mass., April 13, 1808, and died at No. 59 Lodge St., Albany, on Jan. 15, 1880. Compiled "Annals of Albany," " Historical Collections," etc., and was publishing proprietor of the old "Webster's Calendar or The Albany Almanac" from 1841 to the time of his death. There is a granite stone in the Albany Rural Cemetery to show the passerby where his body now rests from its labors ; but he has left an imperishable monument among those he loved and strove to please, enduring for their children's children. This is No. ^7 This copy printed for . .fVr . ALBANY CHRONICLES A HISTORY OF THE CITY ARRANGED CHRONOLOGICALLY FROM THE EARLIEST SETTLEMENT TO THE PRESENT TIME / ILLUSTRATED WITH MANY HISTORICAL PICTURES OF RARITY AND REPRODUCTIONS OF THE ROBERT C. PRUYN COLLECTION OF THE MAYORS OF ALBANY, OWNED BY THE ALBANY INSTITUTE AND HISTORICAL AND ART SOCIETY f COMPILED BY CUYLER REYNOLDS ALBANY, NEW YORK J- B. LYON COMPANY, 1906 PRINTERS fLIBRARVo* CONGRESS One coy* Kecelved I MAY 8 1907 CLASS /? XXc. No. COPY A. I Copyrighted, 1906. CUYLER REYNOLDS. Albany, N. Y. Gift Author (fmtm> l^rtfatt. The history of Albany may be described as one of age, import- ance and interest. Upon the past the present is built, the future building. Records enable individuals and aggregations of beings to advance and improve, through studying motives, methods and results, and were the people without a means of transcribing events, or the inclination to place facts upon paper, it is doubtful whether nations would have made advancement any greater than that of wild tribes of the uncivilized, of aborigines who have made no progress in a thousand years, or than the apes of the forest, it being almost solely so because they have never recorded how they acted or why, and received no knowledge that might have been handed down to them if their predecessors had recorded happenings. In its boast of age Albany has assuredly the opportunity for a large, comprehensive and exultant history, as it is the oldest chartered city existing in the United States. In point of discovery by civilized white men it dates back to 1540, when the French fur- traders built their stone fort here, and although not an enduring settlement then, it has been such since the arrival of the Dutch, or Walloons, in J\Iay of 1624. As a city it has existed since Gov- ernor Dongan granted it a Charter on July 22, 1686. At one period it was the metropolis of this country, and ever a city of the first importance. But Albany's boasting of a remarkable age for an American city might not define it, nevertheless, as a place of importance in a world history. There are, however, besides this fact, two fields in which it stands forth prominently, which other cities must take into consideration to vie with it, — the first is its relation to the nation's history ; the second, its features that mark great steps or epochs in the world's progress. It was from the start one of the few places on the Western Hemi- sphere sought by Europeans in the period of adventure for wealth, as being particularly worthy of settlement (T620-1630), contempo- raneous with the other American landmarks, — Jamestown, Man- hattan, Plymouth and Quebec. It was the scene of the first Congress of the Colonies, when delegates convened in its Stadt Huis, or City Hall, on June 19, 1754, to form a unity for mutual protection against a common foe, as the call to assemble here describes it. V! PREFACE. BORE warfare's BRUNT. Albany was the scene of forceful invasion time and again by the French, who sought to possess the vast territory south of the St. Lawrence by making- armed raids down the two great Adirondack lakes and the Hudson to Albany, as the first and chief point of attack, there being few other places at the time so worthy of con- quering. It bore the brunt of the Indians' barbaric battling, being directly in their path and considered a border town, and valiantly held the hordes of savages from pushing to the weaker settlements east and south. ^^d^en it became the great question of American Liberty, of the creation and then maintaining the stand of a new Republic, the British made Albany their objective point of attack throughout the Revolution, sending armies of enormous size from the westward under General St. Leger ; from the south, a fleet by the Hudson's course under General Howe, and from the north, 8,000 men coming from Europe by way of Canada under General Burgoyne, — all con- verging upon Albany, — and when General Schuyler's well-laid plans and exhortations to the colonies to co-operate had brought about the latter's surrender at Bemis Heights (Schuylerville, N. Y.) on Oct. 17. 1777. the victory for American Liberty was practically assured, for at once the Crown seriously discussed abandonment of its American colonies and the fight was afterwards disheartening. events marking epochs. Its epoch-marking events were when the first American passenger train was operated by steam between Albany and Schenectady in the late summer of 1831 ; when in the summer of 1829, Prof. Joseph Henry demonstrated in the large room of the Albany Academy that his theory of an electric telegraph was perfectly practical if it em- ployed his wonderful discovery of the " intensity " magnet, and when the first steamboat to ply the waters of this hemisphere, the Clermont, made its famous and remarkably successful trip between Albany and New York in September of 1807. Thus we perceive students of great events must turn to Albany for records of the first steam passenger railroad, ihe first steamboat, and the first electric telegraph. Other records in which the world bears an interest, when Albany's name is given place in encyclo- pedias, add further distinction to the above. Here was celebrated the opening of the Erie Canal, Nov. 2, 1825 ; the first settlement of Shakers in America was located here, and its citizens have originated ideas of practical and universal importance, such as the issuance of weather forecasts to cities throughout the country, the recording barometer. I\fany other discoveries and inventions have they added to benefit mankind. PREFACE. Vll REASONS FOR THESE RECORDS. Some books arc prepared without reason and fill no need or demand. This one started with a demand that gave reason for its being" written. The compiler had tabulated the answers he had freely furnished to the miscellaneous queries of citizens during an experience of ten years, and found that they numbered more than one thousand replies each year. A repetition of certain questions about the city showed that the most expedient course was to tabu- late various facts once they were acquired by tedious research. The mass of material grew, was at the disposal of but one person, per- ishable in their form, and consequently, held in private, it was doing a minimum of good, whereas publishing would bring about preser- vation of hidden civic history and wide service. It was also found that many persons bothered city officials and their clerks, by seeking to obtain information, often believing that they had a perfect right to expect a clerk to lay aside the work of half a day to make a special search in order to satisfy somebody's curiosity. While the seeker for facts might not have thought it would require more than a minute, when addressing a query to a department, it was not infrequent that a query would require more than a day's time devoted to turning over the orifice records. Oc- casionally the questions had an important business bearing, or the prominence of the questioner would be of sufficient weight to decide in favor of allowing the matter to interfere with the city's work. If the clerk gave but an hour each day to such concerns, it seriously interrupted his routine ; on the other hand, if he refused, it boded ill-report of that department, which was judged either unobliging or ignorant of matters directly in its line, though happening fifty. a hundred, or possibly two hundred years before. To this effect was the message brought to bear on the compiler when appealed to for assistance. He was practically alleviating the superfluous work of city departments because it was known he had the material at his command. SCOPE OF THE WORK. It was the original intention to prepare a page or two about each Mayor, when a publication was conceived, to include statistics connected with the ofifice and the man, together with a summary of his official deeds, such as would show for what acts of general public interest he was responsible during his term. These acts included the erection of schools, steamer houses, public baths, reser- voirs and filter-plants, viaducts, opening of new streets and mani- fold miscellaneous civic improvements. The records were searched for these, and it resulted in the discovery that he likewise acted, by virtue of his ofifice, in innumerable matters, as ui:)on the extending; Vlll PREFACE. of the public welcome or freedom of the city to notable visitors, opening of several conventions each year, receiving delegations, laying of corner-stones, dedication of buildings, accepting statues, fountains and various gifts on behalf of the city, not to mention the frequent calls made upon him to respond for the city at im- portant banquets. In a word, the Mayor participated largely in the city's life, which is the same as saying, acting conjointly with the citizens in their life, and when it is considered that he is but the figure of the people, representing all of them, his acts are a part of the citizens', and the daily record of the doings of the people is actually the thing that is important to the citizens themselves, — the two inter- twined so closely in interests that official civic acts are only a part of the lives of the people and there is no need to differentiate. Brevity has been an aim of the compiler. To gain this end he has sacrificed all opportunity to achieve renown by employing the usual fine phraseology of the historian. He has sought to make the statements clear, transcribing them in a manner to tell as much as possible within small compass. This has made the sentences an abrupt series of phrases. The book has thus become, in reality, an index to the city's past, and serves its purpose as a means to point to the date of an event, which being found herein, the seeker for full information may repair with facility to the newspaper file and read there all particulars. Many a person has been obliged to devote a week to the tiresome task of turning pages of news- papers and attempting to read cursorily each article's heading. With an approximate date in mind, these pages may be scanned most rapidly. ATTAINING ACCURACY. If it had not been certain that this book could be made more accurate, more comprehensive in scope and contents, and more up-to-date by a score of years than anything in the line of local history ever produced, its writing would not have been attempted. Above all else it sought accuracy at the expenditure of considerable time, because seeking verification and weighing one authority against another is a laborious undertaking that too many writers evade. It is safely estimating it to assert that some three hundred state- ments in other works have been condemned by discovery of their error, and now printed with a due regard for the truth. Consulta- tion of the works of historians of renown, while preparing this volume, has proved that even the best may be detected making blunders, and so while it is hoped that this publication is an im- provement, it would be honest to style it simply that, an improve- ment upon others, and put forth no claims to absolute perfection. PREFACE. ix Thanks are due to Arnold J. F. van Laer, Esq., New York State Archivist, for his courteous and valued co-operation along these lines that seek for accuracy. He has disproved statements regard- ing the Dutch settlement of New York made by prominent histor- ians, and the changes he has suggested and which were made in this work were agreed to because he was able to cite as his author- ity the original documents that are possessed by the State Library and directly under his control. This acknowledgment, however, does not commit him as sponsor for all that is printed herein about the Dutch; but it places credit where it belongs for from fifty to one hundred betterments regarding dates, names, proper transla- tions and the like. CONFUSION IN SPELLING. In no other department of literature is the writer so non-plussed as he prosecutes his work, as in preparing a history of early times, when he discovers that the matter of correctly spelling names of persons and places confronts him. The spelling of the early Dutch settlers hereabouts was notorious. This promiscuous spelling of their names could be straightened out by reference to their signa- tures if it were the way others wrote their names for them that confused; but nearly every inhabitant wrote his name in several styles of spelling. The handwritten records in the City Hall tower, centuries old, have been examined closely, and numbers of auto- graph letters brought to bear in the effort to untangle. The prune puzzler of them all was an Albany Mayor, the fourth. It is more definite to mention him by number than by what he was called. When he was Mayor of Albany he was addressed and wrote his own name Dirk or Dirck Wessels, while the name of his own son, sitting as Alderman in his father's board, was written Wessel Ten Broeck. Jacob Leisler the insurrectionist (who wrote his name Leysler before coming to America) wrote it Vessel then Broke, while Washington Irving called him Dirk Ten Breeches. But the real difficulty, as one looks over a row of histories, is not whether it was " Dirk " or " Dirck," nor yet whether it should be written " ten " or " Ten ;" but to pick out the right one from " Wessel," " Wessell." '^ Wessels," " Wessells " or '' Wesselse." In the preparation of this book, the signature at the end of a man's will was accepted as standard, for in his absence to testify, by his decease, the court gave official recognizance to the form ap- pearing there. But strange as it may seem, one could not be free to accept such spelling as found printed in a book at the end of a published will, for typographical error might destroy the force. Also the writing may not appear the same to two persons. I cite the case of G. W. Schuyler's "' Colonial New York," where (Vol. X PREFACE. ii, p. 329) he states: "To land contracts, deeds, and to his will, he wrote his name in full ' Dirk Wesselse ten Broeck ;' the ' ten ' always with a small ' t '."" This will is on file with the Clerk of the Court of Appeals. It was written by himself, in Dutch, dated Feb. 4, 1715; he died Sept. 18, 1717, and the will admited on Feb. 6, 1 718. The compiler examined it and was convinced that the signature is not as affirmed above, (' Dirk') ; but reads Dirck Wes- selse ten Broeck, and such is the form followed on the monument to his memory at his ancient " Bouwerie," at Clermont. N. Y. This example is an illustration of the pains taken throughout this compilation. PECULIAR PERTINENCE. The compiler has taken particular pains to become personally acquainted with the scenes of almost all the places of importance mentioned in this book. It was to enable him to write understand- ing'ly of events with which Albanians were connected that trans- pired at such places as Bemis Heights, Schuylerville and Stillwater ; Ticonderoga, Fort George, Bloody Pond, Schenectady, etc.. that he made special journeys. In taking up each period of history it is essential to place oneself as nearly in touch with the event as it is possible to do by abundant reading and then by acquaintance with the scene itself. One must be carried back in mind to those days long past while writing of them, to be able to judge of the importance of the characters living then and ')f the occurrence. The reader may wonder why the death of a certain individual is stated ; but taking the whole story of the book it will be found that he had important bearing on some previous occasion, which act his death-mention completes. It is advisable to speak here of the reason for including any events that occurred outside of the city limits. In the first place, it seemed to rob Albany of a large part of its best history if the line were drawn so far as a record, at the city boundary. If a great general or artist had spent most of his life here but latterly lived and died elsewhere, it was deemed proper to make the entry as extensive as though he breathed his last in this city. If General Schuyler burned blockhouses and impeded Burgoyne near Lake George, if Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck (the 28th ]Mayor) led his command to Bemis Heights and fought valiantly there, or if Gen. Peter Gansevoort held Fort Stanwix during the bloodiest, bitterest conflict of the Revolution, and if Peter Tovvuscnd (great-grand- father of Mayor Franklin Townsend) had constructed at his iron foundry the mammoth chain that reached across the Hudsou at West Point to keep I>ritish ships away from Albany, the acts of this nature deserved record equally as much as though the entire PREFACE. XI event transpired within gunshot of the City Hall. On this princi- ple, such matters happening remote from here, without an Albanian as participant, but with direct bearing upon Albany, as when Wash- ington prevented Howe from proceeding up the river to storni Albany, require a position in local history that the picture may not be incomplete and as explaining what the resultant acts were here. One cannot read a history with understanding if the why and wherefore are omitted. REFEKEXCE READINGS. The condensation by the writer of this book of the important facts with local bearing as contained in twelve thousand pages may be reversed by those who wish to gain the details by consulting the list of books purposely perused in writing this one. They are the sources of information, aside from unpublished documents con- sulted. The acknowledgment made here that the writer, in the nature of events drew his information from the records or writings of others likewise makes it clear that he vouches for the authen- ticity of no other incidents entered in this volume than those coming directly to his personal knowledge, covered by a period of the last two or three decades. However, he has been careful to verify, and has consulted such works as were commonly considered reliable. It may truthfully be said that only one history of the city has ever been written, and that by a Trojan, a seeker for accuracy who spared no pains, Arthur James Weise, whose " History of Albany " (1885) is a most comprehensive volume and one to be relied upon for statement of fact and the accompanying dates. But to follow the city's events more closely, to be certain of the facts, to gain the details and to be entertained by the quaintness of it all, for the writer evidently allowed himself to be carried back in mind to the periods of his yearly records, one must pore over the faithfully-executed, ten plain volumes of Joel Munsell's "Annals of Albany," — unappreciated, possibly, at the time they were printed by him ; but highly prized now, as is the way of the world. He devoted days and nights that the people of coming generations might learn without trouble to themselves all about the city's past. In this act he made himself one of the city's greatest philanthropists. Besides these books, there are his four large volumes of " Collec- tions," and other of his works. It may appear to those familiar with the "Annals," that this book bears a resemblance to his pro- duction in scope and a little in its arrangement, for one diary must be like another that deals with similar material ; but it is impossible that there was the slightest intent or that the compiler of this book was in any way influenced by the "Annals," for he started this Xll PREFACE. book early in 1904 and never read a page of Munsell's " Annals " until, as a library record shows, he drew out the books but three months previous to the completion of this book, and had made nearly all of it before he checked the "Annals " for such items that might have been omitted. One cannot avoid Dr. Edward B. O'Callaghan's " Documentary History of New York," (4 volumes; 4,317 pp.; Weed, Parsons & Co., 1849) in writing about Albany, for it is cited in every history written about this state, and if one does not obtain the facts direct they are absorbed through any work consulted. "A History of Albany and Schenectady Counties," George Rogers Howell and Jonathan Tenney, editors, (997 pp., 1886) has aimed to cover every department in which citizens take interest, and is a work of great convenience. Some objection is made to the form of index and the various writers who participated in the text were not always accurate. Parts may be followed, but not the volume in its entirety. "Colonial New York," by the late George W. Schuyler (2 vols., 1.408 pp., Scribner's, 1885) is not only carefully written and enter- taining; but it is largely about Albany and its people before the state was formed. For the compiler of an untried new work to praise a book that is so favorably known would be presumptuous or unnecessary recommendation. " Early Settlers of Albany County," by Prof. Jonathan Pearson of Schenectady, is a work that every citizen of means who takes pride in his city secures if he can afford the luxury of out-of-print volumes ; but despite its prominence the antiquarians of recent day discredit its statement in parts. They claim that they have found earlier records that its author did not have access to in his re- searches. "A History of St. Peter's Church," by Rev. Joseph Hooper, M. A., (The Brandow Printing Co., Albany, 556 pp., 1900) presents much material throwing light upon early times at Albany. It shows clearlv that it was written with great pains, and the details of any subject discussed, — fort, church, street or individual — are replete and evidently the result of drawing records from musty retreats into public notice. " Centennial Celebrations," by Allen C. Beach, (Weed, Parsons & Co., 459 pp., 1879) contains much that has a bearing on the more important of local matters, a book that is widely and worthily known. •'A Godchild of Washington," by IMrs. Katharine Schuyler Bax- ter, (F. Tennyson Neely, New York, 651 pp., 1897) presents a mass of new material from old letters, while the familiar incidents are written in a .style fascinating to the antiquarian. Unfortunately PREFACE. XIU the printers did not do full justice in the spelling of names; but their blunders are too glaring to be dangerous. "A Life of General Philip Schuyler," by Bayard Tuckerman, (Dodd, Mead & Co., New York, 277 pp., 1903) places the reader in touch with the stirring incidents of the Revolutionary campaign as enacted here or affecting this city. Every citizen taking pride in the great men of Albany's past should read it, and become enthusiastic that Albanians played so important a part in national history. " Letters and Journals of Madam Riedesel," translated ably by William L. Stone of Saratoga in 1867, and published by Joel Mun- sell, is a work of absorbing interest because the writing is the graphic description of an eye-witness of Revolutionary scenes that transpired either in this city or near here. " The Ten Broeck Family Genealogy," by Miss Emma Ten Broeck Runk, now residing at Lambertville, N. J., (De Vinne Press, 2.JJ pp., 1897) is devoted in the main to this city's history although styled a genealogy. "Novum Belgium: an Account of New Netherland in 1643-4, by Rev. Father Isaac Jogues," with notes by John Gilmary Shea, (privately printed in 1862) is a faithful record of this place at this early time, told in the words of the persecuted missionary. " The Sexagenary," printed by Joel Munsell and the authorship traced to John P. Becker of Revolutionary days although he gave scarcely a clue to his identity, is valuable as the story of an observ- ant witness of the fight for liberty along the upper Hudson. "x\ Story of Old Saratoga," by Rev. John Henry Brandow, (The Brandow Printing Co., Albany, 396 pp., with maps, 1900) is com- prehensive in its narrative of Burgoyne's invasion and surrender, and probably the best that has been written. " Stories from Early New York History," by Sherman Williams of Glens Falls, (Scribner's, 320 pp., 1906) although planned for the youth or for collegians, will give greater pleasure to grown readers ; deals in part with Albany, and is worthy of the attention of the busy person who, hurriedly seeking to be informed regarding his state's history, will be most delighted and remember what is read because of the way the material is presented. '' Dutch and Quaker Colonies in America," by the late John Fiske, (2 vols., Houghton, Mifflin & Co., 1899) is told in an enter- taining way : but this literary style has caused the elimination of too many dates (which might have been placed in foot-notes) and serves better as a picture of colonial days than as a volume of records to consult for dates. " The Hudson River from Ocean to Source." by Edgar Mayhew Bacon, (590 pp., G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1902) deals extensively with Albany and vicinity. XIV PREFACE. " Historic Towns of Aliddle States," (G. P. Putnam's Sons, 439 pp., 1899) has a section of merit contributed about Albany by Rev. Dr. Walton W. Battershall, rector of St. Peter's. Francis Parkman's works should be read for a general under- standing of Colonial and Revolutionary days hereabouts. There are local works of biographies, P)erthold Fernow's historical writ- ings, the large Bi-Centennial record book prepared by Andrew Hamilton, Esq., under the chairmanship of Ex-Mayor A. B. Banks, state papers prepared by State Historian Hugh Hastings, Gen. Amasa J. Parker's " Landmarks of Albany,"" Mrs. Martha Eamb's historical works ; Mrs. Grant"s " Memoirs of an American Lady," and numerous other works of the nature of those cited. The above list is not a bibliography of Albany. There are other volumes and the miscellaneous booklets of institutions useful for reference ; but these particularly are deserving of credit for the assistance they have been in compiling this one, and a collection of works relating to Albany would have to contain these volumes. Books were only a portion of the source of information. The written records. Dutch and English, — ancient, musty, half illegible, partly burned. — as contained in the tower rooms of the City Hall, were made to yield their facts. It is well to preserve material of this nature in such way that it is accessible, as by printing; also, lest a second conflagration remove what the City Hall fire of 1880 has left to us. Besides this, from five to six thousand individual letters had to be vv'ritten, and six hundred of these, by count, were devoted to the material about the Mayors alone. APPRECIATIVE ASSISTANCE. While tlic writings of others were essential in the production of this work, the book would not have been written or given to the public in the manner it is, without co-operation in its production. Therefore, the compiler is not the onlv one to whom praise will be due if the book deserves it, although he alone must suiTer for its shortcomings. He would express his thanks to Robert C. Pruyn, Esq., for the way in which he has shown his appreciation of the undertaking from the start and made the publication possible in its completeness and form ; for sanctioning and bearing the expense of making the collection of the Mayors' portraits and letters by the compiler ; for advice, encouragement and help, — testimonials that his interest in the city, its people and institutions is sincere. There have been others in sympathy with the project, for in the course of three vears of confining restarcli many obstacles weru encountered which only those who sought its production could aid the compiler to overcome. Mrs. John V. L. Pruyn is one who placed what she had at the dis])Osal of the writer, whether resulting PREFACE. XV in inconvenience or injury, and courteously insisted that anything she could do should be requested. In various helpful ways Mayor Charles H. Gaus, Mr. James Ten Eyck, Mr. J. Townsend Lansing, Hon. William Barnes, Jr., and J\Ir. Dudley Olcott have taken a part that was needful and resultant ii; a benefit to the work. Sup't James A. Burns, of the Albany Rural Cemetery; Secretary William B. Jones, of the Cham- ber of Commerce ; former Weather Forecaster Alfred F. Sims ; Eben E. Olcott, President of the Hudson River Day Line ; Prof. Lewis Boss, of the Dudley Observatory ; Albert E. Brainard, of the N. Y. Central Railroad, Charles Munsell and William L. Marcy Phelps, have cordially furnished information as often as it was requested. It is with gratitude that the production of the work is closed, — a gratification, also, that despite the pleasurable ptn-suit it is finally ended and that it may prove a benefit to many. " Pinxter Hill," Albany, Aug. 14, 1906. Xist of ITlIustratione- (This is an alphabetical list of the illustrations and in no wise a reference table to be used for the date of any object pictured, the dates listed here referring simply to a reference to the picture in the text, hence, for definite data see information under each picture.) Albany Albany in 1829 Albany Map of 1614 (Oct. 1 1, Albany Map of 1695 Albany Map of 1765 Albany Map of 1794 Albany Academy ( J"ly ^9, Albany County Aims-House (Sept. 20, Albany County Building Albany Female Academy (May 12, Albany Hospital (June 23, Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society (Mch. 15, Albany Orphan Asylum (Dec. 2, Albany Savings Bank (Apr. 25, Albany Seal Albany Seal of 1752 Albany Trust Company ( Sept. 5, All Saints' Cathedral (June 3, Andre Meeting Arnold (Sept. 21, Andre Pass and Portrait (Oct. 2, Angel at the Sepulchre (Apr. 29, Arnold, General Benedict (Oct. 7, Arthur's Tomb (Nov. 18, Artists of Albany (Mch.-Apr., Frontispiece PAGE. 1829) 444 1614) 10 1695) 134 1765) 260 1794) 384 1815) 416 1826) 468 1875) 664 1834) 510 1898) 742 1897) 708 1829) 484 1899) 750 1686) 112 1752) 246 1903) 774 1884) 674 1780) 352 1780) 352 1867) 646 1777) 316 1886) 704 1904) 778 B. Bemis Heights Battle Well (Sept. 19, 1777) 310 Bloody Pond (Sept. 8, 1755) 216 BurgoynC; General John (Oct. 18. 1777) 340 Burns Statue (Aug. 30, 1888) 714 Capitol of 180S (Nov. i, 1808) 404 Capitol of 1808 — Houses (July 7, 1869) 660 Capitol of 1808 is Razed (Dec. i, 1883) 698 Capitol of 1878 (May 14, 1878) 686 Capitol's Western Staircase (1898) 716 Central Railroad Station (Dec. 17, 1900) 7S\ Chain Across Hudson (Apr. 30, 1778) 346 City Hall of 1740 (June 19, 1754) 248 City Hall of 1831 (Aug. 31, 1829) 482 City Hall of 1881 (Oct. 13, 1881) 690 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. PACE. Clarke Created Secretary ( Mch. i6, 1703) 166 Clermont ( Sept. 5, 1807 ) 402 Congress Hall (July i, 1825) 454 Constitution House (Apr. 20, 1777) 288 Constitution Island ( Apr. 16, 1 778 ) 342 Cruiser Albany (Mch. 16, i8g8) 740 Cruiser Albany Commissioned (Alay 29, 1900) 752 Cruiser Albany Launched (Jan. 14, 1899) 746 Cruiser Albany Silver Service (Feb. 7, 1903) 770 Cuyler Mansion — Vlie House (1770) 268 D. DeWitt Clinton Enoine and Coaches (Sept. 24, 1831) 500 De Witt Clinton Vases (Mch. 21, 1825) 4^2 Dongan Charter (July 22, 1686) 88 Dongan, Governor Thomas '. ( 1686 ) 100 Dovegat House, South of Schuylerville (Sept. i.S, I777'> 3o6 Dudley Observatory — Old (Aug. 28, 1856) 622 Dudley Observatory — New (Nov. 4, 1893) 726 Duke of York and Albany ( Sept. 24, 1664) 66 Duke of York and Albany Charter (Mch. 12, 1664) 62 Dutch Church (June 2, 1656) 50 Dutch Church Interior (Nov. 25, 1717) 186 Dutch Church Pulpit (Aug. 10, 1657) 52 Dutch Church Weather-Cock ( 1700) 150 E. Eagle Tavern ( 1814) 41^ Elm Tree Corner (i735') 220 Elm Tree Corner in 1837 (1837) 524 Erie Canal Completed ( Nov. 2, 1825 ) 456 Erie Canal Opening ( Sept. 25, 1823) 440 Exchange Building (Nov. i, 1836) 518 F. Father Isaac Jogues (Aug. 4, 1642) 2,2 Federal Building (Mch. 12, 1872) 652 Filtration Plant ( Sept., 1899 ) 74^ Gates. General Horatio (1732) 206 Fort Crailo ( 1663) 58 Fort Frederick ( 1676) 76 Fort Frederick Plans (Aug. 15, 1702) \6.\ Fort Neilson (Oct. 7, 1777) 3I4 Fort Ticonderoga (July .S, I777) 292 Fort William Henry (Aug. 28, 1755) 212 F>itz Villa — Wolfert's Roost (June 15, 1891) 722 G. Gansevoort, General Peter (Aug. 6, 1777) 298 Gansevoort Flag (July 2, 1812) 412 Gates, General Horatio ... (Aug. 19, 1777) 302 Governor's :\[ansion (Jan. 25, 1876) 668 Grant's Dispatch Boat ( 1863) 628 H. Half-Moon Reaches Albany (Sep. 19, 1609) 10 Hamilton's Marriage in Schuyler Mansion (Dec. 14, 1780) 352 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. PAGE. Hawk Street Viaduct (June ii, 1888) 718 Henry, Prof. Joseph (May 13, 1878) 682 Henry and the Telegraph (July, 1829) 480 Henry's Albany Home (Sep. 11, 1826) 464 Henry's First Magnets ( 1828) 442 Henry's " Intensity " Magnet (March, 1829) 476 Henry's Telegraph Bell (July, 1829) 480 Home for Aged- ( 1874) 654 Hudson, Henry (Jan. 8, 1609) 8 Humane Society Building (1901) 762 ■4 I. Immaculate Conception Cathedral ( JuW 2, 1848) 594 Important Albany Institutions ( 1899-1900) 750 Indian Land Deed (May 31, 1663) 56 Indian Treaty (June 14, 1701 ) 158 J- Jail of 1810 (July 30, 1810) 408 Jane McCrea Tree (July 27, 1777) 296 K. King Fountain (Sept. 29, 1893) 724 King Hendrick (Sept. 8, 1755) 214 L. Lady Harriet Ackland (Oct. 18, 1777) 340 Lake Bethesda, Rural Cemetery (Oct. 7, 1844) 558 Lake Consecration, Rural Cemetery (Oct. 7, 1844) 558 Lancaster School — Albany Medical College (May 5, 1817) 426 Lansing — Visscher — Pemberton House (1710) 182 Lord Howe's Burial (Sept. 5, 1758) 254 M. Maj'or Banks (Anthony Bleecker) 670 Mayor Bleecker (Charles Edward) 656 Mayor Bleecker (Jan Jansen) 15*^" Mayor Bleecker (Rutger) 200 Mayor Blessing (James Henry) 74^ Mayor Bloodgood ("Francis) 49^ Mayor Corning ( Erastus) 508 Maj'or De Peyster (Johannes) 204 Mayor Douw (Volckert Petrus) 258 Mayor Dudley (Charles Edward) 432 Mayor Gaus (Charles Henry) 7^^^ Mayor Godard ( Charles Watson) 636 Maj'or Humphrey (Friend) 552 Mayor Jenkins (Elisha) 424 Mayor Judson (Edmund Lewis) 662 Mayor Lansing (John) TH^ Mayor Livingston (Robert, Jun.) 180 Mayor Maher (Edward Augustin) 712 Mayor Manning (James Hilton) 720 Mayor Nolan (Michael Nicholas) 680 Mayor Paige (John Keyes) 566 Mayor Parmelee (William) 572 Mayor Perry (Eli) 610 XX LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. PAGE. Mayor Rathbone (.Tared Lewis) 534 Mayor Sanders (Robert) 2z^ Mayor Scluiylcr ( David Davidse) 176 Mayor Schuyler (Johannes) 170 Mayor Schuyler (Johannes. Jun.) 224 Mayor Schuyler ( Pieter) no IMayor Spencer ( Ambrose) 448 Mayor Staats (Barent Philip) 546 Mayor Stevenson (James) 460 Mayor Swinburne (John) 696 Mayor Taylor (John) 592 Mayor Ten Broeck (Abraham) 350 Mayor Ten Broeck (Dirck) 234 Mayor Thacher (George Hornell) 640 Mayor Thacher (John Boyd) 702 Mayor Townsend (Franklin) 602 Mayor Townsend (John) 474 Mayor Van Alstyne (Thos. Jefferson) 738 Mayor Van Rensselaer (Philip Schuyler) 390 Mayor Van Schaick (Sybrant Gozen) 250 Mayor Van Vechten (Tennis) 522 Mayor Wilson (Oren Elbridge) 730 Mayor Yates { Abraham) 378 Mayor Gaus and Prince Henry (Mch. 7, 1902) 768 Mannins; Boulevard (Dec. 24, 1887) 706 ATarble "^Pillar Building (1863) 632 Marcy's Grave, Governor William L (d. July 4, 1857) 542 Marshall House, Schuylerville (Oct. 11, 1777) 326 Mechanics and Farmers' Bank (1814) 414 Morgan, General Daniel (Oct. 7, 1777) 31S IVIother Ann's Tomb (Sept. 8. 1784) 364 Mrs. Grant of Laggan ( 1808) 406 Munsell, Joel (Dedication page). Museum Building (Jan. i. 1831) 498 N. National Commercial Bank (May 2, 1904) 780 North Dutch Reformed Church (June 12, 1797) 354 North Market (179O 380 North Pearl Street (1788) 374 O. Odd Fellows' Hall (July 18, 1894) 732 P. Patroon's Office ( 1678) 78 Penny Postman Winne ( 1812) 410 Prince of Orange ( May, 1624) 20 Printing by Primitive Methods ( 1828 ) 470 Pruyn Allar and Reredos (1885) 676 Pruyn Library (Apr. 8, 1901) 756 Q. Queen Anne Silver Service (Nov., 1712) 184 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. R. Rcnsselaerswyck Cannon of 1630 (July i, 1644 Riedesel, Madame (Oct. 18, 1777 Rural Cemetery (Dec. 31, 1840 Rural Cemetery Buildings (1882 Rural Cemetery Chapel ( 1884 Rural Cemetery Grounds (May 14, 1841 Rural Cemetery Lakes (Oct. 7, 1844 Rural Cemetery Office ( 1882 Rural Cemetery Statuary (Nov. 18, 1886 Rural Cemetery Sup't's House (1899 Rural Cemetery Vault ( 1858 Sanders-Glen Scotia House ( 1752 Schenectady Massacre (Feb. 8, 1690 Schuyler Flatts, WatervHet (June 22, 1672 Schuyler, General Philip (Jan. 29, 1784 Schuyler's Grave (Nov. 18, 1804 .Schuyler Homestead, Schuylerville (Oct. 10, 1777 .Schuyler's Indian Sachems (Dec, 1709 Schuyler Mansion ( 1761 Schuyler Mansion Attacked (Aug. 7, 1781 Schuyler Mansion Guests (Oct. 18, 1777 Schuyler, Mrs. Philip (Oct. 18, 1777 Schuylerville Monument (Oct. 17, 1777 Sloughter's Commission (Jan. 4, 1691 Soldiers' Monument. Rural Cemetery South Dutch Church (Apr. 30, Spanish War .Souvenir (Sept. 24, Staats House ( Stanwix Hall ( State Hall ( State Library of 1851 (Aug. 24, State Normal College ( State Street — North Side (Mch. 10, Steamboat Albany (July 3, Steamboat Clermont (Sept. 5, Steamboat Hendrick Hudson (Mch. 31, Steamboat Mary Powell ( Steamboat Milton Martin ( St. Agnes' School (June 19, St. Mary's Church (Sept. 13, St. Peter's Church — First Edifice (Nov. 25, St. Peters Church — Second Edifice (May 7, St. Peter's Church — Third Edifice (June 29, St. Peter's Church — Literior (Oct. 4, St. Peter's Church Tower (Nov. i, Stuyvesant, Director Pieter (Jan. 15, Surrender of Burgoyne (Oct. 17, Surrender Tree, Schuylerville ■ (Oct. 16, 806 898 667 833 842 851 88s 804 880 807 906 861 863 871 797 717 802 859 860 876 652 m 777 T. Ten Broeck's " Bouwerie " ( 1697 Ten Broeck's Commission as Mayor (Oct. 3, 1747 Ten Broeck's Mansion (1798 38 340 54^ 692 624 528 558 692 70.1 692 624 246 120 72 36-' 362 324 130 256 354 340 340 334 124 398 400 744 70 504 548 612 678 688 402 802 644 628 650 356 188 394 626 642 672 46 336 3?,-2 140 236 356 U. L^nited Traction Co.'s Office (June 14, 1900) 7= XXU LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. V. PAGE. Vanderheyden Palace ( 1725) 196 Van Rensselaer Coach ( 1818) 428 Van Rensselaer Manor (1765 ) 262 Van Rensselaer Manor House of 1666 (1666) 68 Van Rensselaer Manor House of 1765 (Jan. 26, 1839) 536 Van Rensselaer Manor House of 1843 (June 3, 1843) 554 Van Rensselaer Manor House in 1893 (Oct.. 1893) 728 Van Rensselaer Manor House Hall (Jan. 26, 1839) 536 Van Rensselaer Manor House Library (May 25, 1868) 658 Van Rensselaer Manor House Parlor (June 19, 1875) 666 Van Rensselaer, Patroon Kiliaen (July '^■1, 1630) 24 Verrazano, Giovanni da (1524) 4 W. War Map of Revolution (July, I777) 294 Washington's Headquarters ( i75o) 242 Washington Park Lake (July, 1875 ) 666 Washington Park Scene ( 1894) 734 Waterworks Company Reservoir ( 1802) 392 Welch's Grave, Rev. Bartholomew T 542 Whitehall Homestead ( 1749) 240 Wolven-Hoeck (1724) 192 Y. Yankee Doodle House (June, 1758) 252 flDaisors of Hlban^^ 1. Col. Pieter Schuyler. 2. Judge Johannes Abeel. 3. Judge Evert Bancker. 4. Maj. Dirck Wesselse ten Broeck. 5. Hon. Hendrick Hansen. 6. Capt. Pieter \'an Brugh (Verbrugge). 7. Capt. Jan Jansen Bleecker. 8. Hon. Johannes Bleecker, Jun. 9. Capt. Albert Janse Ryckman. 10. Capt. Johannes Schuyler. 11. Hon. David Davidse Schuyler. 12. Hon. Robert Livingston, Jun. 13. Lieut. -Col. Myndert Schuyler. 14. Hon. Johannes Cuyler. 15. Hon. Rutger Bleecker. 16. Capt. Johannes de Peyster. 17. Johannes (" Hans ") Hansen, Esq. 18. Edward Holland, Esq. 19. Col. Johannes Schuyler, Jun. 20. Cornells Cuyler, Esq. 21. Hon. Dirck Ten Broeck. 22. Judge Jacob Coenraedt Ten Eyck. 23. Capt Robert Sanders. 24. Sybrant Gozen Van Schaick, Esq. 25. Judge Volckert Petrus Douw. 26. Col. Abraham Cornells Cuyler. 2']. John Barclay, Esq. 28 Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck. 29. Johannes Jacobse Beeckman, Esq. 30. Chancellor John Lansing, Jun. 31. Sen. Abraham Yates, Jun. 32. Philip Schuyler A^an Rensselaer. Esq. 33. Col. Elisha Jenkins. 34. Sen. Charles Edward Dudley. 35. Judge Ambrose Spencer. XXIV MAYORS OF ALBANY. 36. James Stevenson, Esq. 37. John Townsend, Esq. 38. Francis Bloodgood, Esq. 39. Sen. Erastus Corning. 40. Hon. Tennis Van Vechten. 41. Hon. Jared Lewis Rathbone. 42. Dr. Barent Philip Staats. 43. Sen. Friend Humphrey. 44. Col. John Keyes Paige. 45. Judge William Parmelee. 46. John Taylor, Esq. 47. Gen. Franklin Townsend. 48. Hon. Eli Perry. 49. Capt. Charles Watson Godard. 50. Hon. George Hornell Thacher. 51. Hon. Charles Edward Bleecker. 52. Hon. Edmund Lewis Judson. 53. Sen. A. Bleecker Banks. 54. Hon. Michael Nicholas Nolan. 55. Dr. John Swinburne. 56. Sen. John Boyd Thacher. 57. Edward Augustin Maher, Esq. 58. Maj. James Hilton Manning. 59. Oren Elbridge Wilson, Esq. 60. Judge Thomas Jefferson Van Alstyne. 61. Hon. James Henry Blessing. 62. Maj. Charles Henry Gaus. Note — Titles appearing here are given without reference to holding office of Mayors ; " Hon." signifying the executive had held public office. jFounbino the Cit^ of Hlban^, MAOUAAS or IMohawk Indians 1524 FUR-TRADERS (French) 1540 HENRY HUDSON Sept. 19, 1609 TRADING-POST (Dutch) 1615 FORT ORANGE (Walloons) May, 1624 RENSSELAERSWYCK (Dutch) June i, 1630 BEVERSWYCK (Dutch) April i, 1652 ALBANY (EngHsh) Sept. 24, 1664 WILLEMSTADT (Dutch) Au-. 5, 1673 ALBANY (EngHsh) Nov. 10, 1674 ALBANY CITY (Charter) July 22. 1686 VERRAZANO'S DISCOVERY — 1524. Giovanni da Verrazano, expert Italian navigator, in 1523 sails the La Dauphine 50 men from Dieppe, Fiance, commissioned by Francis I., seeking direct route to East Indies He enters nCw York Bay in April. 1524. Without sailing up the river, he notes that Indian tribes inhabit both its shores, and departs. ^ ^ FRENCH FUR-TRADERS' CASTLE — 1540. French fur-traders, bartering with Indians along the (Hudson) river, erect a stone "Ilsne" or fortified trading-post, 2G x 36 feet, on island at southern boundary of site of Albany, in 1540. , « . HENRY HUDSON'S ARRIVAL — Sept. 19. 1609. TT<.„r^ TT„rl«on in Enelish navigator, is employed by the Dutch East India Co. under v^rt R..r on Sent 3rd (Old stvle) : passes through The Narrows on Sept. 6th, and reaches ?h/ sife of llbanv on Sept 19th He anchors there four days while his men go northward o%ound°'hoS'muoh'?nteJcourse With I"'l'ans ; starts cruising down the r.ver on Sept. 23rd; sails for Holland on Oct. 4th^ and arrives at Dartmouth, Eng., on Nov. 7, 1609. DUTCH TRADING-POST — 1615. 1540 on the island just south of site of Albany, eaiiint, ii luit i>a..au, by freshet in 1618 and abandoned. ^ ^ FORT ORANGE — THE WALLOONS — May, 1G24. The Dutch West India Co. is incorporated under seal of Lords St^^^^.^^eneral of Ho anfl June 3 1G21 intending to colonize or trade in America. The Walloons, or perse, utea Fre^hProtes ants who had fled to Rolgium. liked by the Dutch because of their thrift ieml^n this company Feb.. 5, 1622, to bo anowoa to senb> alo^ St ^J^Mof Tnt^/rTe^'vork-Bo"- ^l^y 'l^^l 'L^'^dt sUe\,f Al»>any; building FOTt Orange near the river on main land, in June, in command of which they Pl^^e A"en JorL: but in 1629 the company abandons sending settlers because of heavy expense to maintain. « ♦ • RENSSELAERSWYCK — June 1. 1630. The Dutch West India Co.. abandoning settlement policy, adopt.s plan of allowing manorial erants which o^ June 7, 1629. is approved by U.rds States-General at Amsterdam K. iaen Van Ren.selaor D -e^^ of the Amsterdam Chamber and wealthy pearl merchant, obtains on Nov 19 1629 the first concession to establish a colony. Me writes at once to Sebastlaen Jan^enCroi. at Forf orange, to purchase a tract from the Mohawks for h.m and associates The first lot of colonists sail on the Unity. Capt. Jan Brouwer. March 21, 1630. »" J^'y 27 163^ Crol buvs a tract on which Albany is built, extending it southward by ^"^"6 along the vest shore from Beeren to Smacks Island, April 30, 1631. The ,^'""y/-'-^/\f ;'6*;^;^,°,^:^fr,3' on Mav "4 1630 and reaches Fort Orange on June 1. Indians' deed of Aug. 13, 1630, transiers anf (on which Albanv is built) to Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, and in 1631 he forms a partner- ship wUh other Hollaiiders. Jan Baptiste Van Rensselaer is the firstof the family to come to America, 1651, and becomes Director of tlie Manor on May 8, lt)i>-.. BEVERSWYCK — April 1, 1652. Director-General Pioter Stuyvesant. chief official of the Dutch West India Co. in New Netherinnd, with headquarters on Manhattan Island, while at Fort Orange on April 1. 1652, proclaims the land built up about the fort neaj- the river to be known as Dorpe Beverswyck. ALB4.NY — English Rule — Sept. 24, 1664. The English had coveted New Netherland, claiming It as a portion of the territory granted bv Queen Elizabeth in 1584 to Sir Walter Raleigh, and also of right by the discovery of the Cabotsln 1497. The Plymouth colony had grown jealous and influenced King Charles 11 of England, who made a grant of the territory embraced "' ^«7 .^^'^.^e^land and more besides) to his brother, James, Duke of York and Albany, on March 12, 1664 'The English flilt entered New York' Bay on Aug. 26th, and its commander Col. R"^hard NicoUs, demaiids of Director-General Stuyvesant the surrender of New Amsfrdam. ^He resists but signs the capitulation on Sept. 8. 1664. and Vice-Director La Montague, tor the Du cli West India Co at Fort Orange, peacefully surrenders that place on ordej: from Gov. NicoUs, Sept. 24, 1664. WILLEMSTADT — Dutch Rule — Aug. 5, 1673. King Charles II. of England breaks the peace of Breda (July 31. 1667) by declaring war on March 17 1672, against Dutch provinces. A Dutch fleet of 23 vessels and 1 600 men enter^s New York Bav on July 29, 1673, demanding surrender of Fort James, which does so fater that day. and "Lieut. Salisbury surrenders Fort Albany (that had been Fort Orange) op Aug. 5, 1673. , . * ALBANY — English Rule — Feb. 19, 1674. WiUemstadt becomes Albany once more on the signing of the treaty of Westminster, whereby the Dutch stipulate on Feb. 19, 1674, that all the lands, islands, cities and forts that they had captured from the English, should revert to that nation. * * * ALBANY RECEIVES CHARTER. Col. Thomas Dongan, Governor of the Province of New York, grants a charter to Albany, and commissions Col. Pieter Schuyler to be the first Mayor, on July 22, 1686. f* * * GIO\'ANNI DA VERRAZANO. Francis I. o"^ France commissioned him to discover new lands, and he anchored La Dauphinc m New York Bay. summer of 1524. jfounbino of Hlban^. 1523. Thirty-one years after Columbus had discovered America, Giovanni da Verrazano, an expert ItaHan navigator of the high seas, sets sail aboard La Dauphine with a crew of fifty men, from Dieppe, on the northern coast of France, bearing the commis- sion of Francis I., King of France, to seek a western route to India or discover new lands for the Crown. 1524. Verrazano first perceives the North American continent at the 34th parallel of latitude, being practically off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, (Old style) March 11. Verrazano steers southward, exploring the coast for about fifty leagues (150 miles, not far to the north of Charleston, S. C), then turns northward, at times going ashore to make cursory surveys of the country in search of a body of water opening westward, March 15. Verrazano arrives at New York Bay and enters it. Believing that he is in a navigable strait that will conduct him to India, he mans his small boat and rows into the upper bay, which he notes in his journal as a beautiful lake formed by a large river. Indians paddle from the shore in canoes to meet him, and wonder at the strangeness of the faces of the foreign visitors, the like of which they had never beheld, at the unusual cos- tumes and the peculiar vessel with oars and sail, and appearance of a bird ; but a gale arising, he and his men pull back to the larger boat, which had ridden at anchor in the bay, and they put to sea, April. The La Dauphine arrives at Dieppe, France, and Verrazano immedi- ately sends a letter to King Francis describing the land he had explored for nearly 1,200 miles, July 8. King Francis I. terms the new land discovered by Verrazano, from Florida to the St. Lawrence Gulf, La Nouvelle France or New France, and the Hudson river he names the Grande river. Founding. 1525-1607. 1525. Estevan Gomez, a Spanish navigator, having steered his vessel across the ocean to Labrador, coasts southward until off the Florida shore, and on his way notices and makes a record of the Grande (Hudson) River. 1540. Fur traders from France having sailed in barques as far up the Hudson river as its confluence with the Mohawk, erect a " castle " or fort, (a fortified trading-house) on the island south- ward of the site of the future Albany, and on the west side of the river ; but before completion the freshet carries the walls away. 1542. Jean Allefonsce of Saintonge sails across the ocean to New France (Canada), and during the summer coasts southward, passing through Long Island Sound and Hell Gate to the mouth of the Grande (Hudson) River, writing in his record that French fur traders had sailed far up that river to barter with the Indians. 1607. Henry Hudson, an English navigator, is sent in command of the sailing vessel Hopeful by the Muscovy Company on his first voyage of discovery, to sail across the pole to the Spice Islands. He reaches the east coast of Greenland at 69 degrees north latitude, and sails northward to latitude 73 degrees north, re- turning to England in June. Founding. 1608-1609. 1608. Henry Hudson makes his second voyage, trying to discover a north- east passage around the world. Henry Hudson examines the rare French maps of New France, and becoming deeply interested, plans a voyage to America. 1609. The Dutch East India Company engages Henry Hudson to take a vessel to seek the Grande (Hudson) river, to inspect its advan- tages, and if possible to steer through it to India. Hudson, being unacquainted with the Dutch language, employs Jodocus Hondius, a Dutch scholar, to draw a contract, which reads as follows : " On this eighth of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred and nine, the directors of the East India Company of the Chamber of Amsterdam, of the ten years' reckoning, of the one part, and Mr. Henry Hudson, Englishman, assisted by Jodocus Hondius, of the other part, have agreed in manner following, to wit: That the said direct- ors shall in the first place equip a small vessel or yacht of about thirty lasts (about 6o tons) burden, with which, well provided with men, provisions and other necessaries, the aforenamed Hudson shall, about the first of April, sail, in order to search for a passage by the north, around by the north side of Novaya Zemlya, and shall continue thus along that parallel until he shall be able to sail southward to the latitude of sixty degrees. He shall obtain as much knowledge of the lands as can be done without any considerable loss of time, and if it be possible return immediately, in order to make a faithful report and rela- tion of his voyage to the directors, and to deliver over his jour- nals, log-books and charts, together with an account of every- thing whatsoever which shall happen to him during the voyage, without keeping anything back ; for which said voyage the directors shall pay to the said Hudson, as well as for his outfit for the said voyage as for the support of his wife and children, the sum of eight hundred guilders ($325); and, in case (which God prevent) he do not come back or arrive hereabouts within 8 Founding. 1609. a year, the directors shall further pay to his wife two hundred guilders in cash ; and thereupon they shall not be further liable to him or his heirs, unless he shall either afterward or within the year arrive and have found the passage good and suitable for the company to use ; in which the directors shall reward the aforenamed Hudson for his dangers, trouble, and knowledge in their discretion, with which the before-mentioned Hudson is content. And in case the directors think proper to prosecute and continue the same voyage, it is stipulated and agreed with the aforenamed Hudson, that he shall make his residence in this country with his wife and children, and shall enter into'the employment of no other than the company, and this at the dis- cretion of the directors, who also promise to make him satisfied and content for such further service in all justice and equity. All without fraud or evil intent. In witness of the truth, two contracts are made hereof, of the same tenor, and are sub- scribed by both parties and also by Jodocus Hondius as inter- preter and witness. Dated as above : Dirk van Os, J. Poppe, Henry Hudson. Jodocus Hondius, witness," Jan. 8. Henry Hudson sets sail in De Halve Maen (The Half Moon) with a crew of twenty English and Dutch sailors, accompanied by another vessel, the Good Hope, March 25. Sailing out of the Texel, Holland, Hudson steers northerly, March 26. The Half Moon doubles North Cape, at the northern end of Norway, and steers for Nova Zembla; but encounters too much ice to proceed, and he holds a council with his men as to whether it would be better to cross at the 50th parallel or follow Davis's strait, and they choose the former because of the greater warmth and lesser likelihood of encountering icebergs, April. The Good Hope mutinies and returns home, not caring to cross the ocean, April. The Half Moon secures a supply of fresh water at the Faroe Islands, and stands out for its voyage westward to America, May. The Half Moon meets some French fishing-boats on the cod banks, and turns its course southward, July 3. The Half Moon arrives at Chesapeake bay, August. The Half Moon, having arrived in latitude 37 degrees, 45 minutes, in the neighborhood of Virginia, turns northward and skirts the coast until it finds a good entrance, 40 degrees, 45 minutes, north latitude ; perceiving three great rivers at three o'clock in the afternoon, he stands for the northernmost, finding there a broad, deep channel, (Old style) Sept. 3. HENRY HUDSON. This English navigator signed a contract on Jan. 8, 1609, with the Dutch East India Co. to sail the Half Moon from Holland to America. Founding. 9 1609. Henry Hudson aboard the Half Moon passes through the Narrows, Sept. 6. The Half Moon is attacked by Indians, and John Coleman, one of his men, is killed. He is buried on Coleman's point at Sandy Hook, Sept. 6. The Half Moon enters New York harbor, perceiving it to be safe from severe winds, and rides at anchor for the night, (Old 'style) Sept. 9. At 2 o'clock Henry Hudson weighs anchor in order to begin the ascent of the river bearing his name. He proceeds two leagues (about six miles) against the wind, and anchors again. Here twenty-eight canoes, filled with Indians, squaws and pappooses come out from the shore, smoking great tobacco pipes of yellow copper and bearing earthen pots with meat therein. Hudson secures oysters and beans by barter being wary of their actions as savages, (Old style) Sept. 12. Hudson weighs anchor at 7 o'clock in the morning, the day being fair and the wind northerly, turning four miles into the river, when the tide being done he anchors. Four canoes draw up close, but he allows no one to come aboard. He buys great stores of oysters for trifles. At night he sets the variation of the com- pass, finding it to be thirteen degrees. In the afternoon he weighs anchor and drifts with the flood tide for two and a half leagues, when, at a high point of land, with five fathoms of water, he anchors for the night, the bottom being soft ooze, (Old style) Sept. 13. " The fovr teenth, in the morning being very faire weather, the wind southeast, we sayled vp the Riuer twelue leagues, had fiue fathoms and fiue fathoms and a quarter lesse; and came to a streight between two points, and had eight, nine and ten fath- oms: and it trended north-east by north, one league, and we had twelue, thirteene, and fourteene fathoms. The Riuer is a mile broad : there is very high land on both sides. Then wee went vp north-west, a league and an halfe deepe water. Then north- east by north fiue miles, then north-west by north two leagues, and anchored. The land grew very high and mountainous. The river is full of fish, (Old style) Sept. 14. "The fifteenth, in the morning was misty vntil the Sunne arose: then it cleared. So wee weighed with the wind at south, and ran vp into the Riuer, twentie leagues, passing by high Mount- ains. Wee had a very good depth, as six, seuen, eight, nine, twelue and thirteen fathoms, and great store of salmons in the lo Founding. 1609. Riuer. This morning our two Sauages got out of a port and swam away. After we were under sayle they called to vs in scorne. At night we came to other Mountains, which lie from the Riuer side. There we found very louing people, and very old men: where wee were well vsed. Our Boat went to fish, and caught great store of very good fish." Sept. 15. " The sixteenth, faire and very hot weather. In the morning our Boat went againe to fishing, but could catch but few, by reason their Canoes had beene there all night. This morning the peo- ple came aboord, and brought vs eares of Indian Corne, and Pompions, and Tobacco : which wee bought for trifles. Wee rode still all day, and filled fresh water ; at night wee weighed and went two leagues higher, and had shoald water : so wee anchored till day," Sept. 16. ■' The seuenteenth, faire Sun-shining weather, and very hot. In the morning as soon as the Sun was vp, we set sayle, and run up six leagues higher, and found shoalds in the middle of the channell, and small Hands, but seuen fathoms water on both sides. Toward night we borrowed so neere the shoare, that we grounded : so we layed out our small anchor, and heaued off againe. Then we borrowed on the banke in the channell, and came aground againe : while the floud ran we heaued ofif againe, and anchored all night," Sept. 17. " The eighteenth, in the morning was faire weather, and we rode still. In the after-noone our Master's Mate went on land with an old Sauage, a Gouernor of the Countrey ; who carried him to his house and made him good cheere," Sept. 18. " The nineteenth, was faire and hot weather : at the flood, being neere eleuen of the clocke, we weighed, and ran higher vp two leagues aboue the shoalds, and had no lesse water than fiue fathoms : we anchored, and rode in eight fathoms. The people of the countrie came flocking aboord, and brought vs Grapes, and Pompions, which we bought for trifles. And many brought vs Beuers skinnes, and Otters skinnes, which wee bought for Beades, Kniues, and Hatchets. So we rode there all night," Sept. 19. " The twentieth, in the morning was fare weather. Our Masters Mate with four men more went vp with our Boat to sound the Riuer, and found two leagues above vs but two fathoms water, and the channell very narrow ; and aboue that place seuen or eight fathoms. Toward night they returned ; and we rode still all night," Sept. 20. 1^ < < m u < w O O -'^^M^S ^ -■..■X -.r-r 'JV-' Founding. ii 1609. " The one and twentieth was faire weather, and the wind all southerly: wee determined yet once more to goe farther up into the Riuer to trie what depth and breadth it did beare; but much people resorted aboord, so wee went not this day. Our carpenter went on land and made a fore-yard. And our Master and his Mate determined to trie some of the chiefe men of the countrey, whether they had any treacherie in them. So they took them down into the cabbin, and gave them as much wine and aqua vitae, that they were all merrie ; and one of them had his wife with him, which sat so modestly, as any of our countrey women would do in a strange place. In the end one of them was drunke, which had been aboord of our ship all the time that wee had been there : and that was strange to them; for they could not tell how to take it. The canoes and folke went all on shoare ; but some of them came againe, and brought stropes of Beades : some had six, seuen. eight, nine, ten ; and gaue him. So he slept all night quietly," vSept. 21. " The two and twentieth was faire weather : in the morning our Masters Alate and foure more of the companie went vp with our Boat to sound the riuer higher vp. The people of the countrey came not aboord till noone : but when they came, and saw the Sauages well, they were glad. So at three of the clocke in the after-noone they came aboord, and brought Tabacco, and more Beades, and gaue them to our Master, and made an oration, and shewed him all the countrey round about. Then they sent one of their companie on land, who presently returned, and brought a great Platter full of Venison, dressed by themselues; and they caused him to eat with them: then they made him reuerence, and departed all saue the old man that lay aboord. This night at ten of the clocke, our Boate returned in a showre of raine from sounding of the Riuer; and found it to be at an end for shipping to goe in. For they had beene vp eight or nine leagues, and found but seuen foot water and unconstant soundings," Sept. 22. Henry Hudson's log makes the latitude of the location where he had been at anchor for four days, about 42 degree 40 minutes. The latitude of Albany, City Hall ( Fagle street and Maiden Lane) is 42 degrees, 39 minutes, 6 -^r, seconds. Evidently he rode at anchor, as his furthest north point on the Hudson River, at a place somewhere near Cuyler or Pleasure Island, if his bearings were accurate ; but one must remember that even modern reckonings by sailors may be two miles from the true, 12 Founding. 1609. and the ancient mariners were frequently one-fourth of a de- gree, or about 15 miles, out of the way. One must also bear in mind that 42 degrees, 39 minutes, 6-1-0 seconds at the City Hall corner does not mean that latitude where Maiden Lane ends at the river, for the street does not run true east and west ; but would be nearer the foot of Steuben street, Sept. 22. " The three and twentieth faire weather. At twelue of the clocke wee weighed, and went downe two leagues to a shoal that had two channells (Castleton?) one on the one side, and another on the other, and had little wind, whereby the tide layed vs upon it. So, there wee sate on the ground the space of an houre till the floude came. Then wee had a little gale of wind at the west. So we got our ship into deepe water and rode all night very well," Sept. 23. " The foure and twentieth was faire weather : the winde at the north-west, wee weighed and went downe the Riuer seuen or eight leagues : and at halfe ebb wee came on ground on a bank of oze in the middle of the Riuer (The Plaaje, off Cats- kill?), and sate there till floud. Then wee went on land, and gathered good store of chestnuts. At ten of the clocke wee came off into deepe water, and anchored," Sept. 24. " The five and twentieth was faire weather, and the wind at south a stiffe gale. We rode still, and went on land to walke on the west side of the Riuer, and found good ground for Corne, and other garden herbs, with great store of goodly oakes, and walnut trees, and chestnut trees, ewe trees, and trees of sweet wood in great abundance, and great store of slate for houses, and o'ther good stones," Sept. 25. " The sixe and twentieth was faire weather^ and the wind at south a stiffe gale, we rode still. In the morning our carpenter went on land with our Masters Mate, and foure more of our companie to cut wood. This morning two canoes came vp the Riuer from the place where we first found louing people, and in one of them was the old man that had lyen aboord of vs at the other place. He brought another old man with him, which brought more stropes of beades, and gave them to our Master, and shewed him all the countrey there about, as though it were at his command. So he made the two old men dine with him, and the old mans wife ; for they brought two old women, and two young maidens of the age of sixteene or seuenteene yeeres with them, who behaued themselues very modestly. Our Master gaue one of the old men a Knife, and they gaue him and vs Tabacco. And at one of the clocke Founding. 13 1609. they departed downe the Riuer, making signes that wee should come downe to them ; fore wee were within two leagues of the place where they dwelt," Sept. 26. 'At seuen and twentieth, in the morning was faire weather, but much wind at the north, we weighed and set our fore top-sayle, and our ship would not flat, but ran on the ozie bank at halfe ebbe. Wee layed out anchor to heaue her off, but could not. So wee sate from halfe floud : then wee set our fore-sayle and mayne top-sayle, and got down sixe leagues. The old man came aboord and would have had vs anchor, and goe on land to eat with him: but the wind being faire, we would not yeeld to his request. So hee left vs, being very sorrowful for our departure. At fiue of the clocke in the afternoone, the wind came to the south-south-west. So wee made a boord or two, and anchored in fourteene fathoms water. Then our Boat went on shoare to fish, right against the ship. Our Masters Mate and Boatswaine, and three more of the companie went on land to fish, but could not find a good place. They took foure or fiue and twenty Mullets, Breames, Bases, and Barbils; and returned in an houre. Wee rode still all night," Sept. 27. " The eight and twentieth being faire weather, as soon as the day was light, we weighed at halfe ebbe, and turned downe two leagues belowe water; for the streame doth runne the last quarter ebbe : then we anchored till high water. At three of the clocke in the afternoone wee weighed, and turned downe three leagues, vntil it was darke ; then wee anchored," Sept. 28. " The nine and twentieth was drie close weather : the wind at south and south by west, wee weighed early in the morning, and turned downe three leagues by a lowe water, and anchored at the lower end of the long Reach ; for it is sixe leagues long. Then there came certain Indians in a canoe to vs, but would not come aboord. After dinner there came the canoe with other men, whereof three came aboord vs. They brought Indian wheat, which wee bought for trifles. At three of the clocke in the afternoone we weighed, as soon as the ebbe came, and turned downe to the edge of the Mountaines, or the northermost of the Mountaines, and anchored : because the high land hath many points, and a narrow channell, and hath many eddie winds. So wee rode quietly all night in seuen fathoms water," Sept. 29. 14 Founding. 1609. " The thirtieth was faire weather, and the wind at south-east a stifi'e g-ale between the IMountaines. We rode still the after- noone. The people of the countrey came aboord vs, and bronglit some small skinnes with them, which we bought for kniues and trifles. This is a very pleasant place to build a towne on. The road is every neere, and very good for all winds, saue an east-north-east wind. The Mountaynes look as if some metall or minerall were in them. For the trees that grew on them were all blasted, and some of them barren, with few or no trees on them. The people brought a stone aboord like to emery (a stone vsed by glasiers to cut glasse), it would cut iron or Steele. Yet being bruised small, and water put to it, it made a colour like blacke lead glistening; it is also good for painters colours. At three of the clocke they departed, and we rode still all night," Sept. 30. " The first of October, faire weather, the winde variable betweene the west and the north. In the morning wee weighed at seuen of the clocke with the ebbe, and got downe below the moun- taynes, which was seuen leagues. Then it fell calme and the flood was come, and wee anchored at twelue of the clocke. The people of the Mountaynes came aboord vs. wondering at our ship and weapons. We bought some small skinnes of them for trifles. This afternoone, one canoe kept hanging vnder our Sterne with one man in it^ which wee could not keepe from thence, who got vp by our rudder to the cabin window, and stole out my pillow and two shirts, and two bandeleeres. Our master shot at him, and strooke him on the brest, and killed him. Whereupon all the rest fled away, some in their canoes, and some leapt out of them into the water. We manned our boat, and got our things againe. Then one of them that swamme got hold of our boat, thinking to overthrow it. But our cooke took a sword, and cut off one of his hands, and he was drowned. By this time the ebbe was come, and wee weighed and got downe two leagues, by that time it was darke. So we anchored in foure fathomes water, and rode v/ell." Oct. I. " The seconde, faire weather. At break of day wee weighed, the wind being at north-west, and got downe seuen leagues ; then the floud was come strong, so we anchored. Then came one of the Sauages that swamme from vs at our going vp the Riuer with many other, thinking to betray vs. But wee perceived their intent, and svffered none of them to enter our ship. Whercu]:)on two canoes full of men, with their bowes Founding. 15 1609. and arrowes shot at vs after our sterne : in recompence whereof wee discharged sixe muskets, and killed two or three of them. Then aboue an hundred of them came to a point of land to shoot at vs. There I shot a falcon at them, and killed two of them : whereupon the rest fled into the woods. Yet they manned off another canoe with nine or ten men, which came to meet vs. So I shot at it also a falcon, and shot it through and killed one of them. Then our men with their muskets killed three or foure more of them. So they went their way ; within a while after, wee got downe two leagues beyond that place, and anchored in a bay, cleere from all danger of them on the other side of the Riuer, where wee saw a very good piece of ground : and hard by it there was a cliffe, that looked of the colour of a white greene, as though it were either copper, or siluer myne : and I think it to be one of them by the trees tliat grow vpon it. For they be all burned, and the other places are greene as grasse, it is on that side of the Riuer that is called Manna- hatta. There wee saw no people to trouble vs : and rode quietly all night; but had much wind and raine," (Jet. 2, 1609. " The third, was very stormie ; the wind at east-north-east. In the morning, in a gust of wind and raine, our anchor came home, and wee droue on ground, but it was ozie. Then as we were about to haue out an anchor, the wind came to the north- north-west, and droue vs off againe. Then wee shot an anchor, and let it fall in foure fathomes water, and weighed the other. Wee had much wind and raine, with thicke weather, so wee rode still all night," Oct. 3. " The fourth, was faire weather, and the wind at north-north-west, wee weighed and came out of the Riuer, into which wee had runne so farre. Within a while after wee came out also of the great mouth of the great Riuer, that runneth vp to the north-west, borrowing vpon the norther side of the same, think- ing it to haue deepe water: for wee had sounded a great way with our boat at our first going in, and found seuen, sixe, and fine fathomes. So wee came out that way, but wee were deceiued, for wee had but eight foot and an halfe water : and so to three, fine, three, and two fathomes and an halfe. And then three, foure, fine, sixe, seuen, eight, nine and ten fathomes. And by twelue of the clocke we were cleere of all the inlet. Then wee took in our boat, and set our mayne-sayle and sprit- sayle, and our top-sayles, and steered away east-south-east, and south-east by east, off into the mayne sea: and the land on the souther side of the bay or inlet, did beare at noone west and bv south foure leagues from vs," Oct. 4. i6 Founding. 1609-1614. " The fifth, was faire weather, and the wind variable between the north and the east. Wee held on our course south-east by east. At noone I observed and found our height to bee 39 degrees 30 minutes. Our compasse varied sixe degrees to the west," Oct. 5. " We continued our course toward England, without seeing any land by the way all this moneth," Oct. i. " On the seuenth day of November, stilo nouo, being Saturday, by the Grace of God, we safely arriued in the Range of Dart- mouth, in Deuonshire," Nov. 7. 1610. Some of Hudson's crew, impressed by the abundance of everything they had seen along the Grande (Hudson's) river, persuado, Amsterdam merchants of the advantage of sending a vessel there to exchange Holland manufactures for skins, and they do so. The Maquaas (Mohawk Indians) pointing out to them on their arrival the remains of the chateau on Castle Island that had been started, they making notes of the measurements. Henry Hudson sails on his third voyage across the Atlantic, hoping to find a northwest passage, and he enters Hudson Strait and Hudson Bay, the Discovery wintering in Jacques Bay. 1611. Henry Hudson, when about to return to Holland, experiences a mutiny on his vessel ; his crew bind him, and with eight others he is set afloat in a small boat on Hudson Bay, never to be heard from afterwards, June 23. 1614. A manuscript map, three feet long, made this year (or possibly two years earlier) probably by one of Henry Hudson's companions, and styled the " Carte Figurative," is attached to a petition of a number of Dutch merchants, syndicated together, requesting p^ K fa ^ o (fl -o T) 3 n ffi rt ^J u Tl O n Xi rt c V a) •n B c c. a) E S 3 (fl ^ i« ot Founding. 17 1614-1615. the States-General to issue a license granting to them the ex- clusive privilege of trading along the Mauritius (Hudson) River. It shows " Fort Xassoureen " on an island far up the " Riviere vanden Vorst Mauritius," to the east of a settlement of the ■' Maquaas," or Mohawk Indians, on the river of that name. The Lx)rds States-General of Holland grant a special license to a number of Dutch fur-traders to make four trips within the space of three years from Jan. i, 161 5, or earlier, to Xieu Nederlandt, with exclusive right to traffic with the natives, the Dutchmen uniting in one company for the purpose, and stated in the document as follows : " Gerrit Jacob \\^itsen, former burgomaster of the City of Amsterdam, Jones Witsen and Simon Morissen, owners of the ship called Bet \'osje (Little Foxj, Captain Jarn de Witt, master; Hans Hongers, Paul Pelgrom and Lambrecht van Tweenhuysen. owners of the two ships called the Tiger and the Fortune, Captains Adriaen Block and Hendrick Corstiaensen, masters ; Arnoudt van Lyberg, Wessel Schenck, Hans Claessen and Barens Sweetsen, owners of the ship Xochtegael (Xightingalej, Captain Thuys Volckertsen, merchant in the cit}^ of Amsterdam, master ; and Pieter Clementsen Brouwer, Jan Clementsen Kies. and Cornells \'olkertsen, merchants in the cit}' of Hoorn, owners of the ship the Fortune, Captain Cornells Jacobsen Mey, master," given under seal and signature of the secretar}^ at The Hague, Oct. 1 1 1615. The Dutch company of fur-traders send Hendrick Corstiaensen of Amsterdam, an expert navigator, to the Grande (Hudson's) river, now named De Riviere van den \"'orst ^lauritius. or Prince Maurice's River. Hendrick Corstiaensen removes the debris collected in the ruins of the old French fur-traders' fort or store-house of 1540, on Castle Island (Van Rensselaer) south of the cit}' and bordering the western bank, and rebuilds it, calling it Fort X'assouw or Fort X'assau, in honor of Prince Maurice, Prince of Xassau- Orange. Its length is 36 feet and its breadth 26 feet; around it a strong stockade, 50 feet square, encircled by a moat 18 Founding. 1615-1620. feet wide, the defense consisting of two pieces of cannon and II guns to hurl stone in default of cannon-balls, mounted on swivels, the garrison consisting of 12 men. 1616. Hendrick Corstiaensen is shot dead by a man named Orson, from Holland, who had accompanied Adriaen Block, a Dutch navi- gator, to Fort Nassau and who had frequently manifested a re- sentment toward his superior, described by the historian, Nic- olaes a Wassenaer, of Amsterdam, as " an exceedingly malig- nant wretch ; " but he is in turn shot as he seeks to get out of range. Jacob Jacobz Eelkens, subordinate officer under the late Corstiaen- sen, is given command of Fort Nassau. 1618. The exclusive right to trade at Fort Nassau on the Mauritius (Hudson) River, given on Jan. i, 161 5, by the Lords States- General, expires, Jan. i. Fort Nassau, built by Corstiaensen on Castle (Van Rensselaer) Island in 161 5 is wrecked by the freshet, and is abandoned forever bv the Dutch. 1620. Some English Puritans at Leyden make known to the Holland merchants trading in America through Rev. John Robinson, their desire to go to the new country as colonists if given protection, and these merchants write to the Prince of Orange expressive of the wish, and also forward a memorial to the same effect to the Lords States-General, February. The Pilgrims who desired protection of Holland if they settled along the Hudson River at the sites of Albany or New York, not receiving a reply to their petition, set sail for New England, and arrive at Plymouth, Dec. 21. Founding. 19 1621-1623. 1621. The Dutch West India Company given charter under the seal of the Lords States-General of Holland, June 3. The charter given the Dutch West India Co. on June 3rd confers on that corporation from this day, through a period of 24 years, the exclusive privilege of trading on the African coast, in the West Indies and in America ; the right to make contracts with parties and alliances with nations concerned in the countries named, and should troops be required the Lords States-General would furnish, but the company pay the expense of the same, July I. 1622. French Protestants at Amsterdam, called Walloons, who had escaped persecutions of the Spanish Inquisition by fleeing and settling in the southern Belgic provinces, Hainault, Luxemburg and Namur, were an industrious lot and liked by the Dutch. Their petition, that 60 families, or about 600 persons, be per- mitted to sail to the English colony in Virginia, is signed by Jesse de Forest and is sent to the British ambassador at The Hague, Feb. 5. 1623. The Dutch West India Company, hearing of the desire of the Walloons to settle in the English colony in Virginia, persuades them that the opportunities are superior in New Nether- land, and they agree; but there is doubt whether the King of Spain, claiming the whole country, will not oppose their land- ing, and fear it will be necessary to erect forts for their pro- tection. The Dutch vessel. Mackerel, sails from Holland for New Nether- land, June 16. The Lords States-General approve the rules of the Dutch West India Co. (chartered June 3, 1621) and the latter body legally is prepared to proceed with colonization, June 21. The Mackerel arrives on this side and anchors at the mouth of the Mauritius (Hudson) River for the winter, Dec. 12. 20 Founding. 1624. 1624. The Walloons, to the number of 30 families, embark aboard the Nieu Nederlandt, a vessel of 130 lasts, of which Cornells Jacobsen Mey (or May), of Hoorn is captain, and sail from Amsterdam, March. The Nieu Nederlandt reaches the Canary Islands, and gaining the trade winds, stands for the Bahamas, April. The Nieu Nederlandt. having passed between the Bahamas and Bermuda Islands, steered up the coast, and passes in at Sand- punt (Sandy Hook), anchoring in the bay of the ^Mauritius (Hudson) River, where Captain Mey is much surprised to see a vessel with the flag of France near the Dutch vessel, the Mackerel, May. Captain Mey learns that the Frenchman had come to erect the arms of the King of France at that place (Manhattan), and, asserting the authority of the Charter of the Lords States-General of Holland, he unites with the Mackerel in manning a yacht to convoy the Frenchman from the river. May. Captain Mey of the Nieu Nederlandt lands some of the Walloons at the island of Mannatans (Manhattan) and with the rest, about 18 families, sails up the river to the locality of the Maquaas (Mohawks) and Mohegans, the former at the con- fluence of Mohawk and Hudson rivers, mostly on the south side and on the islands, and the latter across the river opposite the site of Albany, landing them on a plain north of Castle (Van Rensselaer) Island, and to the east of graduallv sloping- hills. ' May. The newly arrived colonists hew trees with which to make humble huts for temporary shelter, and plant their corn upon the sandy plain, enriched by centuries of alluvial deposit from the river in the spring, making a covenant of peaceful equity with the neighboring Indians, June- While some are building homes, others engage in constructing a fort, which they name Fort Orange, in honor of ^laurice. Prince of Orange, a principality, 9x12 miles in area, in south- eastern France, situate along the east bank of the Rhone River, then in possession of the House of Nassau, Jime. Adriaen Jorise made commander of Fort Orange and Daniel van Krieckebeek the commissar}^, J^ily- The Mackerel arrives back at Amsterdam, loaded with many furs, and bearing the rc]iort of Captain ^Nley on the colony, also PRINCE OF ORANGE. No sooner had the colonists arrived on the Nieu Nederlandt from Amsterdam, at site of Albany, in May, 1624, than they began erecting a fort (Steamboat Square) named Fort Orange, after Prince Maurice. Founding. 21 1624-162 5. letters from the Walloon settlers, an example of which, exciting the interest of the Dutch to come to the new land, reads; " We were greatly surprised when we arrived in this country. Here we found beautiful rivers, bubbling streams flowing dow^i into the valleys, pools of running water in the meadows, palatable fruits in the forests, strawberries, pigeon-berries, walnuts and wild grapes. Acorns for feeding hogs are plenti- ful in the woods, as is also venison, and there are large fish in the rivers. The land is good for farming. Here is especi- ally the liberty of coming and going without fear of the naked natives of the country. Had we cows, hogs, and other animals fit for food, (which we daily expect in the first ship,) we would not wish to return to Holland, for whatever we desire in the paradise of Holland is found here. If you will come here with your family, you will not regret it," August, 1624. During the fall, the colonists observe for the first time the workings of the beavers in making their winter homes, which being in streams, they make accessible to themselves during the coldest of those months by damming the creeks, Normanskill, Foxen- kill, Ruttenkill, and others coursing down the valleys, so that the stream will not freeze to the bottom because of the depth of water they secure, and thus, with an opening at the bottom of the hut or dome-shaped lodge, they can follow an under- ground waterway to a convenient place on shore. In such places where the current is swift, they notice that their dams formed the letter " V," with the point upstream, thus to break the force of the water or ice, but otherwise in a direct line from bank to bank. The trees of their lodges they perceive were usually six jiclies thick, posts which they had gnawed pyramidal, until the tree would fall, and the mass usually reached six feet, m which two couples would make their home, and in the tollowing May bring forth two to four young for each mated couple, September. The Nieu Nederlandt sails from Fort Orange, the harvest being well advanced, with 1,500 beaver and 500 otter skins, November. 1625. The Dutch West India Company constitutes William Verhulst resi- dent-director for the year, taking into account the river being frozen over and Captain Mey absent on a voyage. 22 Founding. 1625-1626. Korty-five emigrants, excited by the news of the wonderful pro- ductivity of the new land in America along the Hudson, register with the Dutch West India Company, and they are sent over, together with agricultural implements, horses, swine, etc., in the spring. 1626. The Dutch West India Company decides to plant a colony on the island at the mouth of the Mauritius (Hudson) River, and purchases the entire island (Manhattan) from the Indians for 6o guilders, equivalent to $24, April. Peter Minuit, of Wesel, arrives from Holland and becomes fourth director for the Dutch West India Company in New Nether- land, making his headquarters on Manhattan Island, May 4. The southern point of Manhattan Island is selected as a site for a fort, the company's engineer staking it out, and close at hand thirty bark cabins are built by the Dutch settlers, the popula- tion of all the settlements in New Netherland at this time being about two hundred, June. Jan Huyck and Sebastiaen Jansen Crol (or Krol) act as the kranck- besoeckers (sick-comforters) or clergy for the colony at New Amsterdam (Manhattan, New York city), Jwly- The settlement of Fort Orange seriously thinned out this year be- cause of the scare resulting from a fight between the ]\Iohegans (Mohicans) on the top of the hill opposite (site of Albany) and the Maquaas (Mohawks) to the west of Fort Orange, many of the few inhabitants sailing down the river to dwell at New Amsterdam. The Mohegans of the palisaded fort made over- tures to Van Krieckebeek, commander of Fort Orange garrison, to aid them, which he did, taking 6 soldiers along v "th them ; but they were repulsed when a mile west of Fort Orange (about the site of Buttermilk Falls, Beaver Park and Delaware ave.) by a band of Mohawks in ambuscade, three of the Dutch com- mander's men and himself being among the many slain, and one of these, Tymen Bouwensen, the Mohawks roasted and de- voured ; the others they simply burned, and Commander Van Krieckebeek is buried with the two others bv his side. The Founding. 2^^ 1626-1629. Mohawks " carry a leg and an arm to their home to be divided among their families as a proof they had conquered their ene- "^^^^•" August. Peter Mmuit, m May of this year, succeeded William Verhulst as the fourth to command the settlers at New Amsterdam, and on this day The Arms of Amsterdam sails for Holland bearing a letter with the statement that he had bought Manhattan Island ("manatey," island; " manhattanis," those who dwell on an island) from the Dela wares, a strong branch of the powerful Lenni-Lenape confederacy, for 60 guilders in beads and ribbons, equal in value to $24, Sept 2^ P. Schagen writes to their High and Mightinesses that The Arms of Amsterdam had arrived the previous day with the news that Manhattan Island had been bought for $24 in beads from the Indians by Peter Minuit, Director of New Netherland, Nov. 5. 1 627. The Mohawks and Mohicans continue their warfare between the Mohawk (at Schenectady) and for a few miles east of the Hud- son River, opposite site of Albany, as far as Kinderhook, to the east. 1628. The Indian warfare at this place ceases, the Mohawks becoming the conquerors, and driving the survivors of the Mohicans to the Connecticut River. 1 629. The Dutch West India Company decides that it had been at great expense in establishing fur-trading settlement in New Nether- land (New York state), with forts, garrisons and ships con- suming the profits, and discontinues sending settlers. U4 Founding. 1629- 1630. The Dutch West India Company, forsaking the settlement policy, adopts the idea of allowing patroons to divide the land into manorial grants, and the Lords States-General at The Hague, Holland, ratifies the plan, which provides that a person desiring to establish a manor shall first notify the company and then, within the space of four years, settle upon the land selected at least fifty persons of at least the age of fifteen years ; but the land could not be taken possession of until the Indian owners had received satisfactory compensation, whereupon he obtains full ownership and the right to dispose of the same ; the com- mand to be vested in the Patroon, and no one should be allowed to hunt of fish, or own mills along the streams without obtain- ing the Patroon's consent ; Patroons might trade along the coast in merchandise other than skins, which the company re- served as a business to itself ; but their vessels on returning with goods must pay a duty of 5% to the West India Company; should the colonists weave woolen or other stufifs, they would be banished, June 7. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, a pearl and diamond merchant, and director of the Amsterdam chamber, is the first to take advantage of the opportunity to develop a colony under the new privilege of the Dutch West India Company, and it formally confers on him the right to plant a colony in New Netherland, Nov. 19. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer writes from Amsterdam to Sebastiaen Jan- sen Crol, at Fort Orange, to purchase a tract of land for him from the Mohawks, November. 1630. Gillis van Schendel is paid by the Van Rensselaers 6 Rix dollars for making one parchment map and four duplicates on paper, of the place selected by Kiliaen A^an Rensselaer for his colony, which ma]) Kiliaen Van Rensselaer uses in inducing people to cross the water to form his colony, Feb. 8. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, having raised his quota of men required by their charter to form a colony on his Manor, they sail from Holland on the ship Unity, which Jan Brouwer commands, March 21. The ship Unity arrives at Fort Amsterdam (Manhattan) and pro- ceeds up the river to Fort Orange to found Rensselaerswyck, May 24. PATROON KILIAEN VAN RENSSELAER. He bought from the Indians his important tract that included the site of Albany, on July 2"] , 1630, through his agent here. (Oil portrait owned in 1906 by Dr. Howard Van Rensselaer, Albany.) Founding. 25 1630. Patroon Kiliaen Van Rensselaer having authorized Sebastiaen J. Crol to buy land for him, he selects it on the west bank of the Hudson (site of Albany), and signs papers with the Mohawks acquiring land from Fort Orange northward to an east and west line a little south of the Indian Moenemines Castle, close to the Cohoes Falls, likewise for the large tract on the east side of the Hudson River, opposite Fort Orange, " from Peta- nock, the Molenkill, northward to Negagonse, in extent there about three Dutch miles," July 27. Commander Sebastiaen Jansen Crol points out the land he had bought for Kiliaen Van Rensselaer from the Mohawks, where the emigrants are to settle and found the Manor of Rensselaers- wyck, June i. Roelof Jansen, with his wife Anneke Jansen (Anna, as she some- times wrote it, later the owners of the Trinity Church property in New York city) comes to Rensselaerswyck with the emi- grants sent over by Patroon Van Rensselaer to be employed as his farmer for a term of six years at 180 guilders (about $72) a year. The Patroon's first farm cultivated was placed in charge of Wolfert Gerrittsen as opper-bouwmeester (chief farm-master), he re- ceiving 20 guilders ($8) and board per month, and he was to be assisted by bouwknecht (farmhand), paid anywhere from 25 to 120 guilders ($10 to $48) a year, the poorer being obli- gated to pay the Patroon for clothing advanced a certain portion of the produce, and they live in huts until the Patroon erects ordinary dwellings, the rental of a farm with dwelling being from about $120 to $200 yearly, payable in beaver-skins or seawant, or a tenth of the grain raised with half the increase of cattle, fat fowl, butter, also the cutting of a specified amount of wood and certain number of days of labor; bargaming that property of a tenant dying intestate reverted to the Patroon, the Patroon had the right to purchase cattle or grain of tenants before anyone else, and grain must be ground at the Patroon's mill ; all disputes must be settled by court of the Manor without right to further appeal, 2 gerechts-persoonen (magistrates) and the commissary-general forming the court, its other officers being the schout (sheriff) and scherprechter (hangman). The Director and Council of New Netherland sign for Kiliaen Van Rensselaer the deed by which the Indians transfer the land on which Albany is built, in consideration of " certain parcels of goods," Aug. 13. 26 Founding. 1631-1633. 163 1. Kiliaen Var? Rensselaer forms a limited partnership with Samr.el Godyn Johannes de Laet and Samuel Blommaert of the Amsterdam Chamber of the Dutch West India Company, Gillis Hossett confers with the Indians encamped near Fort Orange, and they convey to Kiliaen Van Rensselaer the Sanck- hagag tract on the west bank of the Hudson, from Beeren ( Bears) Island northward to Smacks Island, " two days' journey inland " broad, April i8. 1632. John Mason writes to Secretary Coke that the Dutch at Fort Orange and Manhattan Island will not heed the admonishings of the English colony at Plymouth who had settled on the coast De- cember 21, 1620, but persist in making more and more Dutch settlements, against all royal (English) grant, along the Hud- son River, villifying them when told that they must not do so, and tauntingly praising Holland, April 2. 1633. London merchants infringe upon the rights of the West India Com- pany by sending a ship under Jacob Eelkens, who had previously commanded at Fort Nassau, April. The Englishmen's ship, the William, arrives at the Fort Orange wharf, and the commander of the fort, Hans Jorissen Houten, sends an officer to inquire her object in coming, it being the first English vessel to arrive at the Dutch colony, and learns they propose to barter for furs, Captain Trevor claiming that the territory belonged to Great Britain, based on the 1497 dis- covery of the Cabots as well as the grant by Queen Elizabeth in 1584 to Sir Walter Raleigh; but he is admonished to depart. Captain Trevor appears to obey Commander Houten ; but sails only a short distance down the river when he casts anchor near the west bank, where he pitches a tent, and the Indians who had known Eelkens in past years, flock there to trade, April. Founding. 27 1633-1636. The colonists "of the West India Company are surprised at the act of the Englishmen, and feeling unable to cope with their force, conclude that the best means is to set up a tent nearby in com- petition, berating the quality of the English goods and selling lower, April. Wouter van Twiller arrives as the Director for the Dutch West India Company at New Amsterdam (New York city) and as- sumes charge, April. 1 634. The trapping of beavers and otters for their skins is active at this time, engaging the attention of everyone in the colony except- ing those who were occupied with tilling the soil, it being necessary to produce crops. Sawmills, to provide timber for building more houses, smithies and toolmakers or repairers like- wise finding much business, while the selling of liquor was con- ducted extensively, with possibly more customers among the Indians coming into the settlements to trade than among the Dutch themselves. 1635. There is much reaching- out for land by those who had the means to purchase, but there are few sufficiently wealthy to attempt to secure a tract, confining their immediate aspirations to a lot or small farm. Among the rich, or those who represented . foreign capital, it becomes a question who will be able to secure tracts measured by miles while it may be secured from the Indians for a bagful of imitation wampum, knives or a few axes, in fact a farm over which a man might not walk in a day might be had not far from Eort Orange by going to the north- east or westward, for the equivalent of a thousand dollars. 1 636. Roelof Jansen and wife, Anneke, who had come from Maesterlandt, Holland, and settled on a Rensselaerswyck farm as one of the Manor colonists, obtain letters-patent for 31 morgens of farm 28 Founding. 1636-1638. land at New Amsterdam on Manhattan Island (about 62 acres) from Director-General Van Twiller. (Later this becomes con- tested ground by the Trinity Church Corporation and the ma;:y descendants of Anneke Janse.) 1 637. The Patroon, Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, sends authority to Jacob Albertzsen Planck, Rensselaerswyck's first sheriff, to buy addi- tional land from the Indians, desiring an intervening tract that should piece out his property on the east side of the river until it joined the land that stretched to the east and west line run- ning through Moenemines Castle on Haver Island, at the mouth of the Mohawk, being a district called Papsickenekaas or Paps- skanea, extending south from opposite Castle Island (just below Albany) to the point opposite Smackx Island, and including the adjacent islands, and all the lands back into the interior, belonging to the Indian owners, " for certain quantities of duffels, axes, knives, and wampum, which additional purchase places the Van Rensselaers of Holland interested in the Manor of Rensselaerswyck in possession of a tract 24 miles long, up and down the river and 48 miles broad, east and west, or 24 miles inland on Both sides of the river, an area of about 700,000 acres, including therein the counties of Albany, Rensselaer and a large part of Columbia, April 13. It is alleged that Kiliaen Van Rensselaer visited his estate in this country this year. (This is disproved by the continuity of the letters sent by him from Holland to his colony, of which direct copies were made and kept there by his children and secretary, which letters existed in 1900.) He sends Arendt van Curler (Corlaer), aged 18, as assistant to Commissary Planck, December. 1638. Abraham Isaacs Verplanck, first ancestor of that name in America, and later the owner of a large tract at Paulus Hook (Jersey City) bought from the West India Company, arrives from Holland, March. Founding. 29 1638-1640. William Kieft arrives at Fort Amsterdam (Manhattan Island) suc- ceeding Woulter van Twiller as the sixth director in New Netherland for the West India Company, March 28. Anneke Jans (Janse or Jansen), being the widow of Roelof Jansen, marries Rev. Everhardus Bogardus, dominie of the first Re- formed Protestant Dutch Church of New Amsterdam (about this time). 1639. David Pietersen de Vries, a Dutch navigator, sails to Fort Orange to visit Brandt Peelan on Castle Island, a little south of the fort, and notices many Indians fishing at Beeren Island, and records : " In the evening we reached Brandpylen's Island, that lies a little below Fort Orange and belongs to the patroons, Godyn, Ronselaer, Jan de Laet and Bloemart, who had also more farms there which they had put in good condition at the company's cost, for the company had sent cattle from Father- land at great expense, and these individuals, being the commis- sioners of New Netherland, had made a good distribution among themselves, and while the company had nothing but an empty fort, they had the farms and trade around it, and each farmer was a trader," April 28. David P. de Vries experiences a disastrous flood, recording on the second day after his arrival at Fort Orange : " There was such a high flood at the island on which Brand-pylen lived, who was my host at this time, that we were compelled to leave it and to go with boats into the house where there were four feet of water." April 30. De Vries further describes the flood : " This freshet continued three days before we could use the dwelling again. The water ran into the fort, and we were obliged to repair to the woods, where we erected tents and kindled large fires."' ]\Iay 2. 1640. Because of the dispute over various matters between the colony of Rensselaerswyck and the Dutch West India Company, the Patroons obtain a new charter of privileges and exemptions 30 Founding. 1640-1642. from the Dutch West India Co., some of the provisions therein being that all patroons, free colonists and inhabitants of New Netherland should enjoy the privilege of selling articles brought from Holland upon paying a lo;^ duty ; that they pay lofc export duty on all furs shipped to Holland ; they were allowed to manu- facture woolen goods and cotton cloth which had been pro- hibited ; the person bringing five adults to New Netherland as a colony would be entitled to 200 acres and might hunt in the public woods or fish in public streams ; no religion except that of the Reformed Dutch Church was to be tolerated; the colo- nists were to be provided with negroes to help them on their farms ; appeal from manorial courts might be made to director and council of New Netherland provided the sum in dispute was equal to forty dollars; but the patroons' jurisdiction was not affected by the new charter. The Dutch settlers learn how to counterfeit the Indian wampum or sea want (also spelled zeewan) that the Indians had produced by shaping mussel-shells circular, burnishing them and piercing so as to be strung; 2 beads having the value of one cent and 4 beads worth one stiver, or 2 cents ; the Dutch seawant accepted after a time at the ratio of 6 for a stiver, or 3 for a cent. 1 64 1. Arendt van Curler, now the commissary-general of Rensselaerswyck, and Adriaen vander Donck, a graduate of Leyden University, public prosecutor, the latter official kept busy with prosecutions of those violating the innumerable provisions of the Patroon's lengthy contracts. 1 642. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer requests the classis of Amsterdam to send a ' good, honest and pure preacher " to his Rensselaerswyck Manor, and that body selects Rev. Dr. Johannes Megapolensis, Jun., pastor of Schorel and Berg of the Alkmaar classis, who accepts the call for a term of six years, conditioned on a salary Founding. 31 1642. of 1,000 guilders ($400) that he may not have to work as a farmer, the same to be paid in meat, drink, and whatever he might claim, and an annual donation of 30 schepels (90 bus.) of wheat, 2 firkins of butter, or else 60 guilders, for the first three years, and if satisfactory to the Patroon to be paid by him 200 additional guilders annually, March 6. Rev. Dr. Johannes Megapolensis duly accredited the Dominie for Rensselaerswyck at Amsterdam by Adam Bessels, Rev. Jacobus Laurentius and Pietrus Wittewrongel ; described in the docu- ment as being 39 years old, with wife, Machtelt, aged 42 years, and four children under 15 years of age, March 22. Hendrick Albertsen appointed by the Patroon at Amsterdam the ferryman to transfer people across the river, departing from the north side of Beverkill, which empties into the Hudson at Arch street, June 3. The Patroon sends instructions from Holland telling where colo- nists may build, stating: '' As the church, the minister's house, that of the officer, and also all those of the trades-people must hereafter be established there^ as Abraham Staes and Evert Pels, the brewer, have undertaken, I do insist upon, and consent that, with the exception of the farmers and tobacco- planters, who must reside on their farms and plantations, no tradesmen, henceforth and after the expiration of their service, shall establish themselves elsewhere than in the church-neigh- borhood in the order and according to the plan of building sent herewith ; for every one residing where he thinks fit, separated far from the others, would be unfortunately in danger of their lives, in the same manner, as sorrowful experience has taught around the Manhattans." June 3. The Amsterdam Chamber of the Dutch West India Company in- dorses the appointment of Dominie Megapolensis, although the Patroon had seriously objected, not wishing interference with a matter which he considered entirely within his right and not a matter with which they had any authority, and he is ready to sail on the De Houttuyn, June 6. Anneke Jans (or Jansen), the owner of what later becomes the Trinity Church property in New York city, and who dies in Albany, signs an obligation (Anna lans) to provide for the children of her first husband, Roelof Jansen, and to educate them, namely, Sara, Tryntje, Sytje (or Fytje), Jan (who later is massacred at Schenectady by the Indians) and Annatje, June 21. 2^2 Founding. 1642. A party of about 70 Mohawks set out in July on a foray, and from both sides of the St. Lawrence attack a party of Huron Indians accompanied by French priests from Canada, among them Father Isaac Jogues, who were going in twelve canoes to their country near the big lake (Huron) and the Mohawks take 22 of them prisoners. The occurrences, of a most horrible nature, transpiring then, and the tortures to which they were subjected on their travel to the Mohawk river, when Father Jogues was beaten senseless for displaying sympathy for a prisoner being tortured, (as described in a letter written at Rensselaerswyck, on Aug. 5, 1643, by Father Jogues himself) being as follows: " Scarcely had I begun to breathe, when some others, attacking me, tore out, by biting, almost all my finger-nails, and crunched my two forefingers with their teeth, giving me intense pain. * * * No trial, however, came harder upon me than to see them, five or six days afterward, approach us jaded with the march, and in cold blood, with minds nowise excited by passion, pluck out our hair and beard, and drive their nails, which are always very sharp, deep into parts most tender and sensitive to the slightest impression." The day of the ambushed attack, Aug. 4. Father Jogues, describing in his letter the cruelties perpetrated by the victorious Mohawks, states : " On the eighth day we fell in with a band of two hundred Indians going out to fight (on an island in Lake Champlain) ; and as it is the custom for savages, when out on war-parties, to initiate themselves, as it were, by cruelty,, under the belief that their success will be the greater as they shall have been the more cruel, they thus re- ceived us : First rendering thanks to the sun, which they imag- ine presides over war, they congratulated their countrymen by a joyful volley of nuisketry. Each then cut some stout clubs in the neighboring wood in order to receive us. After we had landed from the canoes, they fell upon us from both sides with their clubs in such fury, that I, who was the last and therefore the most exposed to their blows, sank overcome by their num- bers and severity before I had accomplished half the rocky way that led to the hill on which a stage had been erected for us. I thought I should quickly die there ; and therefore, partly because I could not, partly because I cared not, I did not rise. How long they spent their fury upon me He knows for whose love and sake it is delightful and glorious thus to suffer. Moved at last by a cruel mercy, and wishing to carry me to their country alive, they ceased to strike. And thus half dead and covered with blood, they bore me to the scaffold. Here I had scarce FATHER ISAAC JOQUES. This zealous French Jesuit missionary was captured on the St. Lawrence River, Aug. 4, 1642, by a band of savage Mohawks and brought here a prisoner despite efforts of the Dutch to release him. He was put to death Oct. 18, 1646. Founding. 33 1642. begun to breathe, when they ordered me to come down to load me with scoffs and insults, and countless blows upon my head and shoulders, and indeed my whole body. I should be tedious were I to attempt to tell all that the French prisoners suffered. They burnt one of my fingers, and crushed another with their teeth ; the others already thus mangled they so wrenched by the tattered nerves that even now, though healed, they are fright- fully deformed." Aug. 12. Dominie jMegapolensis, wife and four young children arrive at Fort Orange, and Arendt van Curler at once provides them with a house, until he can build one, Aug. 12. Father Jogues was not to escape with what severe tortures had been his lot on the way south from the St. Lawrence River, to the Mohawk village this side of the Cohoes falls, and describes in his letter (of 1643) what transpired as they neared the Mohawk village : " On the eve of the Assumption, about three o'clock, we reached a river (the Mohawk) which flows by their village. Both banks were filled with Iroquois, who received us with clubs, fists, and stones. As a bald or thinly-covered head is an object of aversion to them, this tempest burst in its fury on my bare head. Two of my nails had hitherto escaped; these they tore out with their teeth, and with their keen nails stripped ofif the flesh beneath to the very bone." Then an aged Indian com- pelled a squaw to cut off his left thumb, Aug. 15. The inhabitants of Rensselaerswyck and those dwelling near Fort Orange, learning of the cruelties practiced by the IMohawks, fear they may, outnumbering them, put them to tortures similar to their French captives, and resolve to pacify the savages by gifts and to seek to ransom the captives. They delegate Arendt van Curler, Jan Labatie and Jacob Jansen to renew covenants and to offer a reward for Father Jogues's liberty. Of what hap- pened Arendt van Curler relates : " I carried presents there, and desired that we should live as good neighbors and that they should neither harm the colonists nor their castle, to all of which the savages of all three villages readily agreed. We were en- tertained there very well and very kindly. We had to stop before each castle for about a quarter of an hour that the savages could get ready and receive us with a number of salutes from their muskets. They were highly delighted that I had come there. Some men were immediately ordered to go hunt- ing and they brought home very fine turkeys. After thoroughly inspecting their castle, I called together all the chiefs of the three castles and advised them to release the French prisoners, but without success, for they refused it in an eloquent speech, 34 Founding. 1642-1643. saying: 'We shall be kind to you always, but on this subject you must be silent. Besides you well know how they treat our people when they fall into their hands.' Had we reached them three or four days later they would have been burnt. I offered them a ransom for the Frenchmen, about six hundred florins in goods (about $250), which all the colony was to contribute, but they would not accept it. We nevertheless induced them to promise not to kill them, but to carry them back to their country. The Frenchmen ran screaming after us and besought us to do all in our power for their delivery from the savages. But there was no chance for it. On my return they gave me an escort of ten or twelve armed men who conducted us home." August. Although Arendt van Curler had been erecting a house for Dominie Megapolensis, it being unfinished for winter use (west of Fort Orange, Steamboat Square, some hundred feet), he buys one of Maryn Adriaensen van Veere, of oak, already built, for 350 guilders (about $140), November. Dominie Megapolensis begins the study of the Indian language in order to be able to preach to the Mohawks, December. 1 643. Commissary Arendt van Curler writes to the Patroon in Holland about the church that Dominie Megapolensis had expected to use on his arrival in August of 1642, as follows : " As for the church it is not yet contracted for, not even begun. I had writ- ten to your honor that I had a building almost ready, namely the covenanted work, which would have been for Dominie Megapo- lensis, but this house did not suit Dominie Johannes ; in other respects it was adapted in every way to his wants. On this account I have laid it aside. The one which I intend to build this summer in the pine-grove [greene bosch] will be 34 feet long by 19 wide. It will be large enough for the first three or four years to preach in and can be used afterward as a resi- dence by the sexton, or for a school. I hope your honor will not take this ill as it happened through good intentions." June. Adriaen vander Donck, the schout of Rensselaerswyck, decides to establish a colony to the south, in the neighborhood of Catskill, June. Founding. 35 1643. Father Jogues, having been held a captive for the space of one year at the Mohawk village a few miles north of Fort Orange, he i<; taken by them on a fishing excursion to a place about 24 miles south of the fort (near the site of Hudson, N. Y.), Aug. i. Father Jogues having returned from the fishing-trip with his Indian captors, tarries with them a few days at Fort Orange, and de- scribes the manner of his escape in a letter, as follows : " As soon as it was day, I went to salute the Dutch governor, and told him the resolution I had come to before God. [This was as to the proprietry of stealing surreptitiously away from im- prisonment.] He called upon the officers of the ship, told them his intentions, and exhorted them to receive and conceal me, in a word, to carry me over to Europe. They replied that if I could once get aboard their vessel I was safe, and would not have to leave it till I reached Bordeaux or Rochelle. ' Cheer up, then,' said the governor, ' return with the Indians, and this evening, or in the night, steal off quietly and get to the river, where you will find a little boat which I will have ready to take you to the ship.' After most humble thanks to all those gentle- men, I left the Dutch, better to conceal my design. In the evening I retired, with ten or twelve Iroquois, to a barn, where we spent the night. Before lying down I went out to see where I could most easily escape. The dogs, then let loose, ran at me, and a large and powerful one snapped at my bare leg and bit it severely. I immediately entered the barn, the Iroquois closed the door securely, and to guard me better came and lay beside me, the one who was in a manner appointed to watch me. See- ing myself beset with these mishaps, and the bam secured and surrounded by dogs that would betray me if I attempted to go out, I almost thought I could not escape. * * * This whole night also I spent without sleep. Toward day I heard the cocks crow. Soon after, a servant of the Dutch farmer, who had received us into his barn, entered by some door I had not seen. I went up to him softly and made him a sign, not understand- ing his Flemish, to stop the dogs from barking. He immedi- ately went out, and I after him^ when I had taken up my little luggage consisting of a little office of the Blessed Virgin, an Imitation of Christ, and a wooden cross which I had made to keep me in mind of my Saviour's sufferings. Having got out of the barn without making any noise or waking my guards, I climbed over a fence surrounding the house, and ran straight to the river where the ship was. It was as much as my wounded leg could do, for the distance was a quarter of a league. I found the boat as I had been told, but as the tide had gone down 36 Founding. 1643. it was high and dry. I pushed it to get it to the water, but finding it too heavy, I cahed to the ship to send me their boat to take me on board. There was no answer. I do not know whether they heard me. Be that as it may, no one appeared, and day was beginning to reveal to the Iroquois the robbery which I had made of myself, and I feared to be surprised in my innocent crime. Weary of hallooing I returned to my boat, and praying to the Almighty to increase my strength, I suc- ceeded at last so well by working it slowly on and pushing stoutly that I got it into the water. As soon as it floated I jumped in and reached the vessel alone, unperceived by any Iroquois. I was immediately lodged in the bottom of the hold, and to hide me they put a large box on the hatch. I was two days and two nights in the hold of this ship, in such a state that I expected to be suffocated and die of the stench." This event transpired between the middle and last of the month of August, being described in a letter written at Rensselaerswyck by Father . Jogues, Aug. 30. Father Jogues, is still in doubt as to whether he will be able to escape, He has difficulty in escaping the vigilant watch for him by the Indians. He writes : " The second night of my voluntary im- prisonment the minister of the Hollanders came to tell me that the Iroquois had made much trouble, and that the Dutch settlers were afraid that they would set fire to their houses and kill their cattle. * * * I was taken to his house, where he kept me concealed. These comings and goings were done by night, so that I was not discovered." Aug. 30. Father Jogues tells how he finally escaped, in a letter to Father . Charles Lalemant, while at Rennes, France (dated Jan. 6, 1664), as follows : " The Iroquois came to the Dutch post about the middle of September, and made a great deal of disturbance, but at last received the presents made by the captain who had me concealed. They amounted to about three hundred livres. which I will endeavor to repay. All things being quieted, I was sent to Manhattan, where the governor of the country resides. He received me kindly, gave me clothes and passage in a vessel which crossed the ocean in midwinter." September. The Patroon, in Holland, sends word to Nicolaas Coorn to fortify Beeren Island, and to demand of each skipper passing ut» or down, except those of the West India Company, a toll of live guilders ($2) as a tax, likewise to see that every vessel coming up the river lowers its colors at the fort as a sign of respect to the Patroon. Coorn thereupon issues the following mani- festo : " I, Nicolaas Coorn, Commander of Rensselaer's Founding. Z7 1643-1644. Castle and for the noble lord, Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, under the high jurisdiction of the high and mighty Lords States-General of the United Netherlands, and the privileged West India Com- pany, hereditary commander of the colonies on this North River of New Netherlands and as vice-commander in his place, make known to you that you shall not presume to use this river to the injury of the acquired right of the said lord in his rank as Patroon of the Colony of Rensselaerswyck, the first and the oldest on this river. * * * Protesting in the name of the said lord, should you presume in defiance of law to attempt to pass by contrary to this proclamation, I am directed to prevent you. Under this manifesto, however, you are permitted to trade with his commissary, but not with the Indians or his par- ticular subjects, as will be seen and read in the admonition and instruction given by him, the Patroon, to Pieter Wyncoop, the commissary, and Arendt van Curler, the commissary-general, conformable to the restrictions of the regulations contained therein," Sept. 8. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, at Amsterdam, Holland, learns of Van der Donck's plans to establish a colony of his own south of his Rensselaerswyck manorial lands, and commissions Pieter Wyn- coop to set out from that city with a vessel. The Arms of Rens- selaerswyck, and purchasing the lands at Catskill, to settle there, while Arendt van Curler uses any force necessary to keep Van der Donck from settling, Sept. lo. 1644. Father Jogues arrives in France, and meets with honors at every turn, people seeking all his little possessions as sacred relics, and the Queen Regent summoning him to visit her at Paris, which he does not care to do, being modestly disposed about himself ; but does so on her third command, January- Dominie Megapolensis writes an interesting sketch of the Mohawk Indians, February. Covert Loockermans, skipper of the yacht the Good Hope, sails from Fort Orange for New Amsterdam, and with studied con- tempt fails to salute the fort, Rensselaer's Castle, on Beeren Island (Beeren, plural of Bear), as directed by the mandate of September 8th, whereupon Commander Nicolaas Coorn yells across the water to him : " Lower your colors ! " Loock- ermans answers back " For whom should I ? " Coorn tells him 38 P'OUNDING. 1644-164:6. " For the staple-right of Rensselaerswyck." To this the Good Hope's indominable skipper replies, " I lower my colors for no one except the Prince of Orange and the lords, my masters !" Coorn applies a match to the fuse of his small cannon and a shot rips through the Good Hope's mainsail, also cutting loose the rigging. Another shot is fired but it passes over the vessel. A third cannon is discharged by an Indian, and the ball passes through the colors of the Prince of Orange, July i. Skipper Loockermans of the Good Hope lodges complaint against Coorn on his arrival at New Amsterdam, demanding reparation, and the Council of New Netherland issues an order for Coorn to desist from such practice, July 5. Commander Coorn, at Fort Orange, does not heed the order of the powers at New Netherland located at New Amsterdam, and continues to demand homage or recognition of the rights of Rensselaer Manor, August. A general thanksgiving is ordered because of the ratification of several treaties with the Indian tribes, especially with those on Long Island, who had warred continuously with the Dutch settlers at Fort Amsterdam, Aug. 31. Day of thanksgiving observed in the churches at New Amsterdam and Fort Orange, Sept. 6. 1645. Father Jogues has a strong desire to return to America again, there to christianize the savage tribes of Indians, although he had been shamefully treated by the Mohawk and Iroquois tribes in 1642 ; but there is a great impediment in his way of his offi- ciating at the sacrifice in his mangled hands, the strict rules of the church requiring a dispensation should he be permitted to act. Pope Urban VIII., learning the true and full story of Father Jogues's martyrdom, grants his petition, with excla- mations of the delight he feels at the privilege of placing the zealous Jesuit in full official capacity. 1 646. The house of Adriaen van der Donck, the schout of the Colony of Rensselaerswyck, burns to the ground and he moves into a cottage that is within the fort, Jan. 17. < ^ w ^ ^ c > o T3 K^ ^ t- ^ T3 OJ C/l . ^ ^ CO >% " ^ J2 O O 'O (U Z rt 1 o -fo ^ _rt 2; 5 >. < u n *=" ■" .5 O -n fo ^ VO "" " c c o "^ bJij ^ rt J3 ^ £ .!2 .« -fi oi u 5: c — C en C C rt n! " s tn v^ ■5 4^ Founding. 39 1646. Father Jogues, who had returned this spring from France to Canada, having been in the former country since his escape from the Iroquois at Fort Orange in September of 1643, sets out from Three Rivers, Canada, with a French officer, named Bourdon, four Mohawks and two Algonquins, on a mission of peace to the Mohawks, who had previously fearfully maltreated him, proceeding under the auspices this time of the Governor of Canada, May 16. Father Jogues and his party reach Lake Andiatorocte (Lake George) on the eve of the Feast of Corpus Christi, and he con- secrates that body of water Lac du Saint Sacrement, May 29. Father Jogues arrives at Fort Orange and he pays the money in return that had been given to the Iroquois by his Dutch friends for his liberation from the savages in 1643. They welcome him cordially, and he relates his travels abroad, and having accomplished the object of his visit, freeing himself of debt to his benefactors, he decides to go north once more, June. Dominie Megapolensis conducting services in his own house at this time; but the church was nearly completed for him (on what was later termed Church street, to the north of Madison avenue and south of Pruyn street, being but a short distance north- west of Fort Orange on the Steamboat Square, not distant in 1646 from the river) excepting to the seat for magistrates, the seat for the deacon, the nine benches for the congregation, corner-seats and the predickstool (pulpit), July- Father Jogues, at Three Rivers, Canada, before starting out on his missionary tour through the Mohawk valley, writes a descrip- tion of how Fort Orange looked at the time of his visit there in the previous June, saying : " There are two things in this settlement (which is called Rensselaerswyck, or in other words the settlement of Rensselaer, who is a rich Amsterdam mer- chant), first, a miserable little fort called Fort Orange, built of logs, with four or five pieces of Breteuil cannon and as many swivels. This has been reserved and is maintained by the West India Company. This fort was formerly on an island in the river. It is now on the mainland toward the Iroquois, a little above the said island. Second, a colony sent here by this Rensselaer, who is the Patroon. This colony is composed of about a hundred persons, who reside in some twenty-five or thirty houses, built along the river as each one found most convenient. In the principal house lives the Patroon's agent; the minister has his apart, in which service is performed. There is also a kind of bailiff here, whom they call the seneschal, who 40 Founding. 1646-1647. administers justice. Their houses are solely of boards and thatched, with no mason-work except the chimneys. The forest furnishes many fine pines ; they make boards by means of their mills, which they have here for the purpose. They found some pieces of cultivated ground, which the savages had formerly cleared, and in which they sow wheat and oats for beer, and for their horses, of which they have great numbers. There is little land fit for tillage, being hemmed in by hills, which are poor soil. This obliges them to separate, and they already occupy two or three leagues of the country. Trade is free to all ; this gives the Indians all things cheap, each of the Hollanders outbid- ding his neighbor, and being satisfied, provided he can gain some little profit. This settlement is not more than twenty leagues from the Agniehorons, [Mohawk Indian tribe], who can be reached by land or water, as the [Mohawk] river on which the Iroquois lie, falls into that which passes by the Dutch, but there are many low rapids and a fall of a short half league, where the canoe must be carried." Aug. 3. Rev. Father Isaac Jogues, a Jesuit missionary who had suffered ex- treme cruelties at the hands of the Mohawk Indians in the summer of 1642 and could not escape from them until at Fort Orange, in September, 1643, when he sailed unawares to them to France ; born at Orleans, in that country, on January 10, 1607, entering the Jesuit order in 1624 and becoming an or- dained priest in 1636, whereupon he had at once proceeded to Canada ; being regarded by the Mohawks as a sorcerer he is put to death by them at Caughnawaga, (N. Y.), Oct. 18. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer dies and his eldest son, Johan, becomes his successor as Patroon (although neither one ever comes to America) and not having reached his majority the management for the colony in America is entrusted by the deceased's ex- ecutors (Johannes van Wely and Wouter van Twiller) to Brandt Arendt van Slechtenhorst of the Van Rensselaer home- stead at Nijkerk, Province of Gelderland, Holland, who accord- ingly prepares to go the following year to Rensselaerswyck. 1 647. Fort Orange nearly swept away by a freshet of unusual propor- tions, broadening and deepening the river so that a school of Founding. 41 1647-1648. whales (it is said) swam up the Hudson as far as Lansingburgh, one of which becoming stranded on an island opposite that place, gives it the name of Walvish Eylant or Whale Island (a small island in the Hudson River above Troy which disappeared on construction of the state dam), March. Petrus Stuyvesant arrives at Fort Amsterdam on Manhattan Island, as the successor of Director Kieft, for the Dutch West India Company, May 11. Brandt A. van Slechtenhorst sails from Holland for Virginia on his journey to Fort Orange, Sept. 26. Carl van Brugge appointed commissary of Fort Orange, Nov. 6. Rev. Everhardus Bogardus of New Amsterdam, the second hus- band of Anneke Jans for Jansen), drowned, and she removes to Beverswyck, purchasing a small house at the northeast corner of Yonkers (State) street and Middle Lane (James street). 1648. Brandt Arendt van Slechtenhorst arrives at Fort Orange, to be Director of Rensselaerswyck, the river having been frozen he did not attempt to come up before this with his family, March 22. While the director of the Rensselaerswyck colony did not admit any rule over his authority by Pieter Stuyvesant, the Dutch West India Company's Director of New Netherland, still the former official did pay him due respect on his first visit of in- spection to Fort Orange, south of the Manor, it being recorded : " Whereas the council of the colony directed that the Heer General Pieter Stuyvesant should be honored, on his arrival and departure, with several salutes from the Heer Patroon's three pieces of cannon, the Director employed Jan Dircksen van Bremen and Hans Eencluys to clean the same, for they were filled with earth and stones, and to load them, in doing which they were engaged three days, to wit : one day in cleaning them, the second day in firing, at the arrival, and the third at Stuyve- sant's departure, for which Van Slechtenhorst purchased twenty pounds of powder and expended ten guilders for beer and victuals, besides having provided the Heer General at his de- parture with some young fowls and pork," July. Director-General Stuyvesant seeks to keep all buildings back and away from the fort by the river (on Steamboat Square) that no 42 Founding. 1648. protection from its range of cannon may be afforded to the Indians should they make attack, admonishing the authorities at Rensselaerswyck : " We request, by virtue of our commission, the commandant and court of the said colony to desist and re- frain from building within a cannon-shot from the fort, until further orders or advice from our sovereigns or superiors, or to present to us special consent and authority signed by our sovereigns or superiors aforesaid, for both above and below there are equally suitable, yea better building sites," July 23. Van Rensselaer's Director, Van Slechtenhorst, writes a refutation to the asserted rights of Stuyvesant, stating the claim of the Van Rensselaer colony to use of land all about Fort Orange, — that the Patroon's trading-house had stood a long time on the edge of the fort's moat, and he ridicules the recent order of Stuyvesant in view of the valueless quality of the fort as a proper place of defence, saying: " So far as regards the re- nowned fortress, men can go in and out of it by night as well as by day. I have been more than six months in the colony and the nearest resident to the fort, and yet I have never been able to discover a single person carrying a sword, a musket or a pike, or have I heard or seen a drum beat, except when the Director-General himself visited it, with his soldiers in July," July 28. Dominie Megapolensis, having completed his term of six years, resigns his pastorate ; but his congregation, endeared to him, urge that he remain another year instead of going back to Holland to attend to an estate, which he agrees to do, August. Director Van Slechtenhorst commences erecting a house within pistol-shot of Fort Orange, contrary to Stuyvesant's prohibition of the previous month, August. Director-General Stuyvesant learns about the action of the Director of Rensselaerswyck and dispatches both soldiers and sailors to Fort Orange with orders to demolish the house of Van Slechtenhorst now under construction, and Carl Van Brugge, commissary of Fort Orange, is directed to arrest him if he offers resistance, September. There is much excitement at Fort Orange and Rensselaerswyck when Stuyvesant's orders are made known, asserting that if Van Brugge attempt to take down the house they will fight the garrison. Besides, the house having been intended for the ■ Indians as a shelter when remaining in town to trade, they declare their readiness to help the people of Rensselaerswyck, September. Founding. 43 1648-1650. Commissary \"an Brugge writes to Stuyvesant that it was useless for him to attempt to take a stand against the inhabitants as they outnumber his men, and with the Indians as alHes would be the victors, September. Stuyvesant recalls the seven soldiers and five sailors, but sends an order directing Van Slechtenhorst to appear before liim on April 4th, abandoning the idea for the time of enforcing his resrulations. October. 1 649. Dominie Megapolensis, having completed seven years as pastor of the Dutch Reformed Church, or one year longer than his orig- inal contract called for, Director Stuyvesant persuades him to assume charge of the congregation at Fort Amsterdam, and he accepts, Aug. 15. The Patroon's brewery turns out 330 tuns of beer during the year. December. 1650. The colonists of Rensselaerswyck subscribe money for a small school-house, June. Dominie Megapolensis' brother-in-law. Rev. Wilhelmus Grasmeer, a former resident of Grafdyck, Holland, who had left there without first obtaining consent of the classis, accepts the pulpit vacated by the withdrawal of the former to New Amsterdam the previous year, Jwly- The school-house is completed, August. Andreas Jansen is chosen to teach the children of those who had subscribed money for the school building, Sept. 9. There being no regularly appointed dominie of the Dutch Reformed Church, named by the classis in Holland, Philip Pietersen Schuyler, who had arrived this year from Holland, the pro- genitor of the family of that name in America, and Margritta van Slechtenhorst, the Director's daughter, are married at the Manor House by the Rensselaerswyck's secretary, Anthonie de Hooges, the officers of the fort and the manor attending the afifair, which is celebrated with much entertainment, Dec. 22. 44 Founding. 1651. 1 65 1. Johannes Dyckman is stationed at Fort Orange as the Vice-Director of the West India Company under Director-General Stuyvesant who is located at New Amsterdam (New York city) with super- vision over the entire New Netherlands and those at the fort (on Steamboat Square) are continuously at odds with the colonists of Rensselaerswyck, grouped about the Dutch Church on Church street, only a hundred yards to the northwest of it, soldiers of the Fort Orange garrison going about at night dis- charging their muskets in the streets and in many ways ter- rifying the inhabitants. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer's third son, Jan Baptiste Van Rensselaer, the first of the name of Van Rensselaer to come to America (it being conclusively shown by series of letters that Kiliaen kept copied in a record book in Holland, inscribed by his chil- dren and secretary, that he never visited this country even for a short time, as has often been suggested he did) arrives here to see the colony that the Van Rensselaers had established. As the Rensselaerswyck directors of the past had not allowed the soldiers of Fort Orange to hunt, fish or cut wood upon the manorial lands it was not to be expected that they would be any better disposed to him than they had been towards the directors, and they looked upon him as an unfriendly, undesir- able personage, likely to be more severe than his officials. It being a question whether the Dutch West India Company's officers as represented by Pieter Stuyvesant or the Manor under Jan Baptiste Van Rensselaer was to be superior, the latter seeks to strengthen his position and it is resolved by the Council of Rensselaerswyck " that all householders and freemen of the colony shall appear on the twenty-eighth day of November of this year, being Tuesday, at the house of the honorable director, and there take the ' burgerlijke ' oath of allegiance." Nov. 23. Forty-five colonists take the oath of allegiance to the Patroon at Director Van Slechtenhorst's house, in these words : " I prom- ise and swear that I shall be true and faithful to the noble Patroon and co-directors, or those who represent them here, and to the honorable director, commissioners and council, sub- jecting myself to the court of the colony ; and I promise to demean myself as a good and faithful inhabitant or burgher, without exciting any opposition, tumult, or noise, but on the Founding. 45 1651-1652. contrary, as a loyal inhabitant to maintain and support, offen- sively and defensively against every one, the right and the jurisdiction of the colony. And with reverence and fear of the Lord, and the uplifting of both the first fingers of the right hand, I say, So truly help me God Almighty." Nov. 28. Joost Hartgers, bookseller of Amsterdam, prints the sketch written about the Mohawk Indians by Dominie Megapolensis. 1652. Soldiers from Fort Orange garrison, in rancorous spirit, make hideous outcry and discharge their muskets at night in front of the Patroon's mansion, a piece of burning wad falling on the reed roof and setting it ablaze ; but the burning thatch is dis- covered and extinguished, Jan. i. Director of Rensselaerswyck Slechtenhorst's son assaulted by sold- iers of Fort Orange garrison, who beat him mercilessly and drag him through mire to Vice-Director Dyckman of the West India Company, in command of the fort (on Steamboat Square, between Broadway of 1900 and the Hudson River), who bids them, " Let him have it, now, and the duivel take him ! " Dyck- man perceiving Philip Pietersen Schuyler running to aid his brother-in-law, draws sword to head him off^ and upon the Rensselaerswyck colonists attempting to join in the affray, he orders the cannon of Fort Orange loaded at once and trained on the patroon's mansion, a dwelling to the west and not far from the fort, Jan. 2. Director-General Stuyvesant writes to Vice-Director Dyckman to maintain the rights of the Dutch West India Company's gar- rison. Fort Orange, and allow none to ,build or remain in houses already erected near to it, which proclamation bearing his seal, he orders to be read to the Rensselaerswyck colonists, Jan. 15. Dyckman accompanied by an armed body-guard, goes to Jan Bap- tiste Van Rensselaer's Manor House where the colonial magis- trates are in session, and desires that the Patroon read the proclamation from Stuyvesant to the inhabitants ; but Van Rens- selaer is angered, maintaining that Dyckman should not have come with armed men upon his land, and asserting, " It shall not be done so long as we have a drop of blood in our veins, nor until we receive orders from their high mightinesses and 46 Founding. 1652. honored masters." Whereupon Dyckman orders the Patroon^s bell rung, and being refused, rings that of Fort Orange to call together the inhabitants, and returns to Van Rensselaer's house. Here he orders his deputy to read the proclamation ; but Van Slechtenhorst snatches it away, and in tearing it the seals fall therefrom. To Dyckman's threat that Stuyvesant will make him suffer severely, he laughingly turns to his colonists, saying, " Go home, good friends, it is only the wind of a cannon-ball fired six hundred paces off." January. Pieter Stuyvesant orders Vice-Director Dyckman to erect a number of posts six hundred paces from the walls of Fort Orange (250 Rhineland rods of 12 Rhineland feet of 12 36-100 inches, being about 3,083 feet), marking each with the West India Company's seal and nailing to boards thereon, at each post, a copy of the proclamation, March 5. Vice-Director Dyckman plants several posts as directed by Stuyve- sant, some, to the north, at Orange street, others at a south Hne, the site of the future Gansevoort street, March 17. The Rensselaerswyck magistrates order the high constable to remove the Fort Orange boundary-line posts set out by Vice-Director Dyckman, and writes to Director-General Stuyvesant of what he considers " the unbecoming pretensions and attacks," March 19. Stuyvesant writes to Dyckman that he intends to visit Fort Orange with such means as will enforce his proclamation, it being rumored that Dyckman was to erect a gallows and hang Patroon Jan Baptiste Van Rensselaer, \'an Slechtenhorst and the co- lonial director's son, ]\larch. • • • Pieter Stuyvesant, having come to Fort Orange to straighten out matters between the West India Company and the Manor of Rensselaerswyck, despatches Sergeant Litschoe with a squad to lower the Patroon's flag, and upon Van Slechtenhorst re- fusing, the soldiers enter the Patroon's yard, discharge their firearms and lower the colors. He then proclaims that the area within the district that he had previously ordered staked out about the fort be Dorpe Beverswyck, or the village of Beverswyck, meaning where beavers gathered, April i. PIETER STUYVESANT. He was the doughty Director-General in New Amsterdam for the Dutch West India Co. and issued sundry proclamations here which aroused the Rensselaerswyckians to wrath, in 1648 and 1652. Founding. 47 1652. Before leaving Fort Orange, Stuyvesant institutes a court and names three justices, April 10. Director Stuyvesant having had his proclamation posted at the Rensselaerswyck Court-House, Van Slechtenhorst tears down the placard and attaches his own in its stead, to maintain thus the rights of the Van Rensselaer Manor, April 15. Van Slechtenhorst is arrested by the Fort Orange soldiers for his insubordinate acts, and is imprisoned therein with such solic- itous care that none might speak to him, April 18. The Director-General conveys land south of the Fuyck kill (the creek also known as the Rutten kill, emptying into the Hudson .River near Hudson avenue) as far south as the public high road, and as far west as Jacob Jansen's farm, to be a site for an almshouse and its supporting farm for workers or inmates, April 23. Gerrit Swart is commissioned at Amsterdam, Holland, to be the schout, (sheriff) of Rensselaerswyck, the document signed by Johan Van Rensselaer and Giacomo Bissels for the co-directors, April 24. Jan Baptiste Van Rensselaer, who was the first of that family name to come to America (arriving at Fort Orange in 1651) becomes the director of the Manor, his power of attorney bearing this date. May 8. Rev. Gideon Schaets having received the call sent from Rensselaers- wyck to take charge of Dominie Megapolensis' congregation, he signs his acceptance, at Amsterdam, as do Johan Van Rens- selaer and Toussaint Mussart for the co-directors, and his term of three years at 800 guilders annually, is to begin when ho arrives at his destination on the ship Flower of Gelder, on which he was to enjoy free passage and board, May 8. Holland and England wage war, because the latter had granted her ship owners letters of reprisal to capture Dutch vessels found sailing the seas. A naval engagement takes place between the two fleets in the Straits of Dover, May 29. The Dutch West India Company writes from Amsterdam a letter of warning to Stuyvesant to beware of the English inhabitants, and if they rise up in civil conflict he suggests that they employ the Indians to subjugate the enemy. It is also advised that the erection of palisades around all the principal settlements of New Netherland may be a wise policy. Aug. 6. As the vessel bearing the advice of the Dutch West India Company to Stuyvesant, directing him to beware of the English, was captured by the enemy, a duplicate is sent to him, Dec. 13. 48 Founding. 1653-1655. 1 653. Pieter Stuyvesant waits until the river opens in the spring to send the directions of the Dutch West India Company, regarding the building of palisades and the strengthening of the forts against an English uprising, to Vice-Director Dyckman, and the news of a common danger brings at last a mutual co-operation of those at Rensselaerswyck and Fort Orange, March. 1 654. Stuyvesant relents regarding his strict orders not to build settlers' houses anywheres near the fort, between Fuyck and Beaver kills, and grants a license to adrien Jansen Appel of Leyden to build near Thomas Jansen's fence provided the place be not used as a tippling house but as a tavern to accommodate strangers, April 30. News received at New Amsterdam of the establishment of peace between England and Holland, July i6- Fort Orange observes a day of thanksgiving because of the declara- tion of peace and the possibility of conducting business with- out fear of an unexpected molestation or expending further money on fortifications, Aug. 12. 1655. Marcelus Jansen, being the highest bidder for the tapsters' excise for the year and giving bonds that he will pay the sum of 2,030 guilders in good strung zewant, becomes the collector of ex- cise duties, and each tapster is expected to pay a revenue to the Dutch West India Company of four guilders on a tun of home- brewed beer, and six guilders on a tun of the imported, April 23. Johannes de Decker is appointed Vice-Director for the Dutch West India Company at Fort Orange to succeed Dyckman, June 21. Founding. 49 1655-1656. Johannes Dyckman, a man little liked, pettish, surly and malignant, incapacitated to continue his duties as Vice-Director at Fort Orange for the Dutch West India Company because of in- sanity, July. The public tapsters of Rensselaerswyck refuse to allow Vice-Director de Decker of the West India Company to collect the liquor excise or measure their wine in stock, being so advised by Jan Baptiste Van Rensselaer, who held that money collected from his colony would be used by the West India Company to benefit Fort Orange but not Rensselaerswyck. He proposed that the matter be adjudicated by the courts, but the Director-General at New Amsterdam retorted that it would be lowering himself to enter into disputes with vassals, — the Van Rensselaers. In the end they had to appear and pay fines or be banished, July. 1656. A general moving of the buildings from around Fort Orange (on the Steamboat Square) to the new village growing at the north- ward, between the Fuyck or Rutten kill (opening into the river at the foot of Hudson avenue) and the Foxen or Vossen kill (being the stream pouring down Canal street ravine, empty- ing into the river at the foot of Columbia street) . As a result, it was thought essential to have a place of defence nearer than the one mentioned, and subscriptions are taken to erect at the foot of Yonkers (State) street what would be a block-house in time of hostilities and a church when things were peaceful. Rensselaerswyck and Beverswyck were united in the expense, the magistrates of Beverswyck volunteering 1,500 guilders and the Patroon of Rensselaerswyck subscribing 1,000 guilders, Feb. 18. The Fort Orange and Beverswyck magistrates write a request to the Director-General at New Amsterdam for a liberal contribution to help build the new church that is required in place of the small, old building (of 1646) a short distance northwest of Fort Orange, March 10. Some of the inhabitants prefer to worship according to the profes- sion of Augsburg, as Lutherans ; but the withdrawal of such persons from the Dutch Church is regarded as unlawful, and Vice-Director de Decker, acting in the interests of the Dutch West India Company, interdicts them. However, the Luther- ans continue to assemble, March 10. 50 Founding. 1656-1657. Having received no reply to the appeal of March loth, from New Amsterdam, the local magistrates again address themselves to the officials on Manhattan Island, saying they " are much suprised that no answer to our last letter, at least none on the subject of our expected collection there, has been received by us * * * in the event of a failure we should be very much dis- turbed and distressed ; even if everything should turn out for the best, it would be very difficult to collect the remainder from the church here," April 8. The magistrates sign a contract with Jan Van Aecken " to set the church so far on his smithy as the width of the door, on condition that we set up his house according to the direction of Rem Janssen and leave a suitable lot for the bakery and re- move the large house at our own expense," May 13. Corner-stone of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church is laid by Rutger Jacobsen, magistrate, Dominie Schaets officiating in the presence of the civic authorities, its location being a little to the west and up the incline of the hill, of the exact center of intersection of Yonkers (State) and Handelaars or Market (Broadway) streets, and the second religious edifice ever erected at Fort Orange, is constructed like a block-house, with loop-holes, on top are to be placed three small cannon, facing the three roads, June 2. Johannes de la Montagne appointed Vice-Director of Fort Orange, Sept. 28. 1 657. Inhabitants of Beverswyck avail themselves of the privilege of enrolling as great berghers or citizens (burghers recht) by paying 50 guilders to the burgomaster, and thus were entitled to hold office, and to exemption from confiscation of property and attainder on conviction for a capital offence. Small burghers paid 20 guilders and must be such as were native-born, had resided in the place and kept fire and light therein one year and six weeks, or had married a native-born daughter of a burgher; these might engage in trade and could join guilds, all according to the law passed at this date, Feb. 2. Directors of the Dutch West India Company write from Amsterdam to Director Stuyvesant regarding their interest in the comple- tion of the new Dutch Church at the foot of Yonkers (State) DUTCH CHURCH. The first congregation founded here was the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church, 1642, whose first edifice was at Madison ave. aud Church St., west of Fort Orange. It removed to center of State st. and Broadway ; corner-stone June 2, 1656. A stone building (picture) was made about the wooden one in 1715 ; removed 1806. Founding. 51 1657-1658. street: "In this vessel, Vergulde Meulen (Gilt Mill), is sent a small kerk klockje (church bell) which had been solicited by the inhabitants of Fort Orange and the village of Bevers- wyck for their newly-built little church. Whereas the twenty- five beaver-skins which were brought here by Dirck Janssen Croon were greatly damaged, which he intended to defray from their sale the payment of a predickstoel (pulpit), and by which misfortune this sum was not sufficient, so we listened to his persuasion and advanced him seventy-five guilders pur- posely to inspire the congregation with more ardent zeal," April 7. Several Mohawk sachems come to Fort Orange to request Vice- Director La Montague to aid them in the expected assault by the Senecas. They desire horses to convey trees from the woods, with which to make palisades, and also the promise that in event of a conflict their squaws may find refuge at Beverswyck. They also desire to borrow a cannon to be used to summon their warriors from the forests in case of a sudden battle with tomahawks, which mode of warfare would not announce that a conflict was in progress, June. The magistrates of Beverswyck reply that they have control over no horses, but they could induce the inhabitants to rent them, and would care for their women. Regarding the cannon, they would address the Director-General at Manhattan, June. Dominies Megapolensis and Drisius write to the classis of Amster- dam, Holland, that " the condition of the congregation there (Fort Orange) is most gratifying; it grows stronger apace, so as to be almost as strong as we are here at Manhattan," Aug. 5. Dirk Ben Slick pays Francois Boon for his labor making the predickstoel (pulpit) and hanging the bell in the Dutch Re- formed church at the foot of Yonkers (State) street, 32 florins, Aug. 10. 1658. Jeremias Van Rensselaer (the second son of Kiliaen) succeeds his brother Jan Baptiste Van Rensselaer (who had come to America in 165 1 ) as the Director of the Manor of Rensselaerswyck. Beaver-skins numbering 37,640, and 300 otter-skins shipped from the vicinity of Fort Orange during the year, December. 52 Founding. 1659. 1659. The Mohawk nation fears an invasion of the French from Canada and appeals to the Dutch at Fort Orange as follows : " The Dutch call us brothei-s and declare that we and they are joined together with chains, but that lasts only as long as we have beavers; after that no attention is paid to us. * * * We have heard of the coming of our enemies, the French. If we drink too much liquor we cannot fight. We therefore desire you not to sell any brandy to our people, but to put the bung in our casks. * * * When we go away now, we shall take away a considerable quantity of brandy, and after that no more, for we will burn our kegs. * * * We desire that the smiths should repair our things, even when our people have no money, or let them have much or little wampum. ■'' :;. * We ask that the gunmakers shall hurry making the guns and not let us wait so long and lose time. When we come from the country and the muskets are all repaired, we have no powder. You must therefore give us some powder, and when the enemy comes you must be willing to help us. You are too timid. Send fifty or sixty men to assist us. * * ''"' Look at the French and see what they do for their savages when they are in distress. Do as they do and help us repair our palisades. * '■' * Come to us with thirty men and with horses to chop and carry wood to our stockades and assist in repairing them. The Dutch can drag their wood- sleds into the country," .September 6. The Dutch of Fort Orange, realizing the importance of retaining the friendship of their Indian allies, present the Mohawks with beaver-skin coats and the magistrates deem it a wise course to distribute 50 guilders among the sachems, September. It is determined that twenty-five men, among them Arendt Van Curler, Philip Pietersen Schuyler, Jeremias Van Rensselaer, Adriaen Gerritsen. Francois Boon and Volckert Jansen (Douw), be delegated to go from Fort Orange and make a new treaty with the Mohawks at Kaghnuwage, on Cayadutta creek where it empties into the Mohawk (about 40 miles west of Albany) while the savages are feeling agreeably disposed towards the Dutch because of recent presents and their urgent need of help from Fort Orange in their defense against the French, September. DUTCH CHURCH PULPIT. It was shipped from Holland on April 7, 1657. on the Gilt Mill and was placed in the church at foot of State St., Aug. 10, 1657- First Dutch Reformed Church on No. Pearl st. In 1906 it was in the Founding. 53 1659. The twenty-five delegates from Fort Orange to the Mohawks at Kaghnuwage present them with 15 axes, 11 boxes of wampum, knives, 75 pounds of powder and 100 pounds of lead, and while seated about the council-fire address them as follows : " Brothers, we have come here only to renew our old friend- ship and brotherhood. You must tell it to your children. Ours will know it for all time to come, and will be reminded of it bv the writings which we shall bequeath to them. We shall die, but these will remain, and from them they will learn that we have lived with our brothers in peace. Brothers, we could not bring any cloth, for we could not get men to carry it. Merchandise cannot buy friendship. Our heart has always been good and still continues to be. If that is of no value to you, then we come not to purchase friendship even if the land were full of merchandise and beavers. * * * Brothers, sixteen years have passed since you and the Dutch made the first treaty of friendship and brotherhood that joined us together with an iron chain. Since that time it has not been broken either by us or by our brothers, and we have no fear that it will be broken by either of us. We will, therefore, not speak of it any more, but will always live as if we had one heart. * * * Brothers, eighteen days ago you were with us and made your proposals to your Dutch brothers. We did not give you a definite answer then for we were expecting Chief Stuyvesant and we promised to inform you when he should have arrived. He is now sick and cannot come. What we now say is ordered by Chief Stuyvesant, by all the other chiefs, and by all the' Dutch and their children. * * * Brothers, we speak for this and all future time, in our own behalf and in behalf of all the Dutch now in the country or who may yet come, and in behalf of all the children, for we cannot come here every day, .as the roads are very bad for traveling. Hereafter you must have no doubt of our remaining always brothers. Whenever some tribe or any savages, who- ever they may be, come to incite you to war and say that the Dutch intended to fight against you, do not regard them, do not believe them, but tell them they lie. We shall say the same of you if they tell the same of our brothers. We shall not believe any prattlers, neither shall we fight against you, nor will we leave you in distress if we are able to help you. But we cannot compel our smiths and gunmakers to repair the muskets of our brothers without pay, for the gunsmiths must 54 Founding. 1659. earn food for their wives and children, who otherwise would perish from hunger. If the smiths were to receive no wampum for their work they would remove from our country, and then we and our brothers would be much embarrassed. * * * Brothers, eighteen days ago you requested us not to sell brandy to your people and to bung our casks. Brothers, do not allow your people to come to us for brandy and none shall be sold them. Only two days ago we met twenty to thirty kegs on the road all going to obtain brandy. Our chiefs are very angry because the Dutch sell brandy to your people, and always forbid our people to do it. Xow forbid your people to buy brandy. If you desire that we should take the brandy and the kegs containing it from your people, say it before all these people, and if we afterward do it you must not be angry. Brothers, we now give you a present of powder and lead, which you must not waste if you want to attack your enemies. Rightly use it and divide it among your young men. Brothers, we see that you are very busy cutting wood to build your fort. You asked us for horses to haul wood, but horses cannot do it, for the hills are too high and steep, and your Dutch brothers cannot carry the wood because they have become too weak in marching to this place, as you may perc'eive by looking at them. * * * Inasmuch as our brothers sometimes break their axes in cutting wood, we now present you with fifteen axes. Brothers, as some of your people and some Mahicanders and Sinnekus sometimes kill our horses, cows, pigs and goats, we ask our brothers to forbid their people to do it," September 24. The Fort Orange delegates start on their return, and on reading a letter just received from Vice-Director La Montague, stating that the River Indians were fighting the Dutch settlers at Esopus, the Alohawk chief says to them that should the River Indians apply to them for aid in waging warfare against the Dutch, he will say to them, " Begone you beasts, you pigs ; depart from us, we will have nothing to do with you," September 25. The inhabitants of Rensselaerswyck and Beverswyck fearing an attack by the River Indians, located about Esopus, Saugerties and along the west shore of the river principally, commence erecting an enormous stockade to comprise about the entire settlement, October. Founding. 55 1660. 1660. Jacob Leyseler (Leisler, as commonly spelled later), a German of Frankfort (by his own statement in writing, and who is to occupy the most prominent role in the Province of New York, particularly at Albany, in 1689), is sent over by the Dutch West India Company from Amsterdam, in the ship Golden Otter, too poor to pay 13.8 florins for his musket, and for a bed and chest 3.10 florins, as v/ell as being in debt to Hendrick Stend- ericker for a loan of 50 florins pledged on his soldier's pay, as noted in an entry made on the books of the company, April. The River Indians conclude a peace treaty with the Dutch at Esopus, and thus terminates the warfare, the people of Fort Orange becoming less timorous, July 15. The enormous new stockade surrounding Rensselaerswyck and Beverswyck, now completed, enclosing the area from Hudson avenue northward along the river to a point about one hundred feet north of the foot of Maiden Lane, to the northeast corner of Broadway and Steuben street, to North Pearl street at a place 192 feet north of Maiden Lane, to State street at about the intersection of Lodge street, to South Pearl street at a point near Beaver street, to a point on Green street 75 feet north of Hudson avenue, to the corner of Broadway and Hudson avenue, and thence to the river at the Fuyck kill's mouth, all of which is to be paid for by a tax of 3 guilders on each chimney, as agreed by ordinance this day. July 25. Considerable trouble is experienced by the custom of Dutch fur merchants sending out boschloopers (forest-runners) into the woods as agents to buy up furs being brought to the settle- ments by the Indians, the runners often surrounding the owner of a skin for sale and sometimes beat him into an unconscious condition in the altercation over a barter between competitors. The Indians complain as follows to Director Stuyvesant : " We request that we may barter our beavers at pleasure and may not be locked up by the Dutch, but may go with our beavers where we please, without being beaten. When we are some- times in a trader's house and wish to go to another's to buy goods which suit us, then we get a good beating, so that wf^ do not know where our e3^es are. This conduct ought not to continue ; each ought to be allowed to go where he pleases and where the goods suit him best," August. 56 Founding. 1661-1662. 1661. A movement is started by Arendt Van Curler to locate families from Beverswyck on the Great Flat (Groote Vlachte, site of Schenectady), provided he may be granted land by the Dutch West India Company, believing secretly that they would be the first ones to secure animal skins as they are being brought to Fort Orange by the savages, May. Director-General Stuyvesant grants the petition of Arendt Van Curler and others to purchase land of the Mohawk Indians, to found a settlement at site of Schenectady, June 23. Arendt Van Curler and his friends at Fort Orange purchase the land called Schonowe by the Mohawks, at site of Schenectady, July 27. 1662. Three Frenchmen arrive at Beverswyck in famished condition, having eaten onl}'- berries and bark for nine days after their escape from a band of Mohawks and Oneidas, who had made an attack upon an outpost near INIontreal and killed 14 French soldiers and 80 Indians, July- Conferences held at Fort Orange between Director-General Stuy- vesant of New Amsterdam, two delegates sent by the governors of Boston and Nova Scotia, and the Mohawk chiefs to inquire why the latter had broken faith and allowed three hundred of the tribe to foray about the Kennebec and Penobscot rivers, killing cattle and burning barns. The promise is made not to trespass on the English settlements, or go into Connecticut to commit depredations there, as threatened, August. The inhabitants of Rensselaerswyck and Beverswyck discover that the new settlers on the Great Flat (Schenectady) are obtaining all the furs that are daily brought from the westward by the Indians, which greatly lessens the trade of those villages on the Hudson, and forthwith formally petition Director-General Stuyvesant at New Amsterdam to prohibit this procedure by a law and penalty, that the trade may not be interrupted on its course to Fort Orange. Capt. Jacob Leisler, who had been sent over from Amsterdam by the Dutch West India Company in April, 1660, on the Golden Otter, marries Elsje Tymans, the daughter of Anneke Janse's sister, Alaritje, and widow of Pieter Cornelise Van der Veen. w w Q Q V — > -w -a n o (J •53 o - >> a n re -t; re > H < E< ^ -^' £! 03 o re ~ J2 C O o • — -o rt bo E :- o re ___ re r^ S c " ^ -c ^ *0 >. >. •a c J2 c ^ S 1J o - OJ u ^ ^ "J S, o c ^ .11 i O '~ "1 •5 o. Founding. 57 1663. 1663. Dirk Van Schelluyne, notary public of Beverswyck, draws the will for Anneke Janse (Bogardus), residing at the time in her own home at the northeast corner of Yonkers (State) street and Middle Lane (James street), she being sick in bed and expecting to die, which is witnessed by Rutger Jacobsen and Evert Janse Wendell. This will provides for the disposal of her estate in New Amsterdam (New York city) which consists of an enormous farm, reaching from Broadway to the Hudson river and Warren to Christopher street (later to become the property of Trinity Church and contested by innumerable descendants), . -'^"' ^, The West India Company's engineer, Jacques Corte jon, is directed not to survey any land for those who would settle at the Grootc Vlachte (Schenectady) unless each tenant or purchaser signs the following instrument: " We, the undersigned, proprietors of land on the flat, * * * promise herewith that we will have no dealings with the savages, whatever name they may have on the said flat or thereabouts, nor will we permit such trade under any pretext whatsoever, neither directly nor in- directly, under the penalty that if we or any of us should hereafter happen to forget this, our promise, we shall pay as a fine, without any resistance whatever, the first time fifty beavers, the second time one hundred, and the third time forfeit the land allotted to and obtained by us on the aforesaid flat This we confirm by our signatures at Fort Urange, January. \rendt Van Curler and others who were to form a settlement at the site of Schenectady object to abandoning the profitable fur trade since that had been their object in locating at the new place,' saying: "We bought the land with our own money ior the company (to be repaid at a convenient time), took possession of it with much expense, erected buildings on it, and stocked it with horses and cattle. If the proprietors are to be treated in a different manner or with less consideration than the other inhabitants, then all their labor has been un^e^ warded, and they are completely ruined. * * * Inasmuch as the survevor is now here, but has no order to survey the and unless this pledge is signed, we request that the ^.u-veyor be authorized to survey the land in order to prevent differences 58 Founding. 1663. and disputes among us, else we shall be compelled to help ourselves as best we can.'' River Indians massacre 21 persons at Esopus, and make 42 prison- ers, June 7. Stuyvesant sends orders to Beverswyck to take warning by the Esopus massacre and adequately fortify the place, removing all huts from near the fort by the river, June 12. Stuyvesant requests that Beverswyck send to him four cannon, needful in fortifying outlying settlements near Manhattan, and suggests that some soldiers be sent to Esopus; also, that the Mohawks capture some of the River Indians in order that they might be employed in an exchange for the Dutchmen captured on the 7th at Esopus, June 15. Stuyvesant sides with the inhabitants of Fort Orange, and orders that no goods be forwarded to Schenectady and that the West India Company's commissary proceed there with magistrates to " take up the goods and merchandise already there," June 18. Vice-Director La Montague at Fort Orange writes to Stuyvesant at New Amsterdam, that the removal of wooden dwellings from near the fort would entail too severe a loss upon the inhabitants, and as a consequence the Dutch West India Company would have to indemnify them, June 23. La Montague writes that were he to send four cannon to New Amsterdam there would be but two left in the fort as " Mr. Rensselaer claims three of these pieces and demands them immediately to place them in a little fort or fortification at Greenbush that they have built there (Fort Crailo), and if your honor takes four from those remaining not more than two would be left us. It is true that there are still three light pieces which the magistrates brought from Mr. Rensselaer's place in 1656, and placed on the church," June 29. The Dutch hold a colonial assembly (landts vergaderinge) at New Amsterdam, with delegates from Breucklen, Bergen, Haarlem, New Utrecht and other nearby places present; but none from Rensselaerswyck or Beverswyck, it being too near the winter for them to risk sailing down, with the object of complaining about the many deplorable conditions to the Dutch West India Company, and pointing out several promises made in 1629 in the charter of privileges and exemptions, by maintaining their individual rights to the lands settled upon, whereas the English are secretly planning to overthrow these claims by obtaining possession of the country under pretense of ownership under u a in H in w C ^ (U tn ^ C C > ^ t> Ih •o \n c uj ^ rrt cfl c 0) ^ ^ < D T3 aj r. •a (J bO c O t/3 ^ ^ C) ,^_» >^ c 3 ni o Pi T3 U < Q Clj X t«" r) ~ ( ) V > >^ c5 bc u J ^ 1 — . o < < pq lU Q c J o " b/) "" < XI -id {« to Q o < ^ ^ o >-| -a 01 < % ri O c i1 '^ rt u .2 o rt t75 tij ^ C o >< w -o >< Q bo :5 o c V >> W •T-! ^ Xi "o W p -a c ,_; a in i£ 1—1 id (Tl 1 . nj -a • c i; ^n U X VO O m oT Founding. 63 1664. Col. Richard Nicolls, commander of the EngHsh fleet of King Charles II., demands the surrender of New Amsterdam, Aug. 30. Gen. Pieter Stuyvesant asserts the rights of the Dutch at Man- hattan and throughout New Netherland in an endeavor to per- suade Colonel Nicolls to depart, Sept. i. The Dutch and English commissioners seek an amicable adjust- ment, and draw up articles of surrender to the English, Sept. 6. Director-General Pieter Stuyvesant, chief officer for the Dutch West India Company of Holland in New Netherland (later the Province and then the State of New York), that company having a grant by which it had possession under the protection of Holland, signs reluctantly the document of surrender to the English. The articles of agreement read : " I. We con- sent that the States-General, or the West India Company, shall freely in joy all farms and houses (except such as are in the forts), and that within six months, they shall have free liberty to transport all such arms and ammunition as now does belong to them, or else they shall be paid for them. II. All publique houses shall continue for the uses which they are for. III. All people shall still continue free denizens, and shall in joy their lands, goods, wheresoever they are within this country, and dis- pose of them as they please. IV. If any inhabitant have a mind to remove himself, he shall have a year and six weeks from this day to move himself, wife, children, servants, goods, and to dispose of his lands here. V. If any officer of state, or pub- lique minister of state, have a mind to go for England, they shall be transported fraught free, in his Majesty's frigotts, when these frigotts shall return thither. VI. It is consented to, that any people may freely come from the Netherlands and plant in this colony, and that Dutch vessels may freely come hither, and any of the Dutch may freely return home, or send any sort of merchandise home, in vessels of their own country. VII. All ships from the Netherlands, or any other place and goods therein, shall be received here, and sent hence, after the manner which formerly they were before our coming hither, for six months next ensuing. VIII. The Dutch here shall injoy the liberty of their consciences in divine worship and church discipline. IX. No Dutchman here, or Dutch ship here, shall upon any occasion, be pressed to serve in war against any nation whatsoever. X. That the townsmen of the Manhattans shall not have any soldiers quartered upon them, without being 64 Founding. 1664. satisfied and paid for them by their officers, and that at this present, if the fort be not capable of lodging all the soldiers, then the Burgomasters, by their officers, shall appoint some houses capable to receive them. XI. The Dutch here shall injoy their own customs concerning their inheritances. XII. All publique writings and records, which concern the inherit- ances of any people, or the reglement of the church or poor, or orphans, shall be carefully kept by those in whose hands now they are, and such writings as particularly concern the States-General, may at any time be sent to them. XIII. No judgment that has passed any judicature here, shall be called in question, but if any conceive that he hath not had justice done him, if he apply himself to the States-General, the other party shall be bound to answer for the supposed injury. XIV. If any Dutch living here shall at any time desire to travaile or traffique into England, or any place, or plantation, in obedi- ence to his Majesty of England, or with the Indians, he shall have (upon his request to the Governor) a certificate that he is a free denizen of this place, and liberty to do so. XV. If it do appear, that there is a publique engagement of debt, by the town of Manhatoes, and a way agreed on for the satisfying of that engagement, it is agreed, that the same way proposed shall go on, and that the engagement shall be satisfied. XVI. All in- ferior civil officers and magistrates shall continue as now they are (if they please), till the customary time of new elections, and then new ones to be chosen by themselves, provided that such new chosen magistrates shall take the oath of allegiance to His Majesty of England before they enter upon their office. XVII. All differences of contracts and bargains made before this day, by any in this country, shall be determined according to the manner of the Dutch. XVIII. If it do appeare that the West India Company of Amsterdam do really owe any sums of money to any persons here, it is agreed that recognition and other duties payable by ships going for the Netherlands, be contiued for six months longer. XIX. The officers, military and soldiers shall march out with their arms, drums beating, and colours flying, and lighted matches ; and if any of them will plant, they shall have fifty acres of land set out for them ; if any of them will serve as servants, they shall contiue with all safety, and become free denizens after- wards. XX. If, at any time hereafter, the King of Great Britain and the States of the Netherland do agree that this place and country be re-delivered into the hands of the said Founding. 65 1664. States, whensoever his Majestic will send his commands to re-deliver it, it shall immediately be done. XXI. That the town of Manhattans shall choose deputyes, and those deputyes shall have free voyces in all publique affairs, as much as any other deputyes. XXII. Those who have any property in any houses in the fort of Aurania, shall (if they please) slight the fortifications there, and then injoy all their houses as all people do where there is no fort. XXIII. If there be any soldiers that will go into Holland, and if the company of West India in Amsterdam, or any private persons here will transport them into Holland, then they shall have a safe passport from Colonel Richard Nicolls, deputy governor under his Royal Highness, and the other commissioners, to defend the ships that shall transport such soldiers and all the goods in them, from any surprizal or acts of hostility, to be done by any of His Majesty's ships or subjects. That the copies of the King's grant to his Royal Highness, and the copy of his Royal High- ness's commission to Colonel Richard Nicolls, testified by two commissioners more, and Mr. Winthrop, to be true copies, shall be delivered to the Honourable Mr. Stuyvesant, the present Governor, on iMonday next, by eight of the clock in the morn- ing, at the Old Miln, and these articles consented to, and signed by Colonel Richard Nicolls, deputy-governor to his Royal High- ness, and that within two hours after the fort and town called New Amsterdam, upon the isle of Manhatoes, shall be delivered into the hands of the said Colonel Richard Nicolls, by the ser- vice of such as shall be by him thereunto deputed, by his hand and seal. John De Decker, Nich. Varleth, Sam. Mega- polensis, Cornells Steenwyck, Jacques Cousseau, Oloffe. S. Van Kortlandt, Robert Carr, Geo. Cartwright, John Winthrop, Sam. Willys, John Pinchon, Thomas Clarke." Sept. 8. Colonel Richard Nicolls, commander of the English fleet and repre- sentative of James, Duke of York and Albany, by grant of his royal brother. King Charles II., assumes the office of Governor of the new Province of New York, and re-christens the city of New Amsterdam as New York and Fort Amsterdam as Fort James, the Dutch relinquishing control of the fort and public offices to the English this day, Sept. 8. Johannes De Decker sails with all despatch from New Amsterdam for Fort Orange, hoping to arouse the inhabitants there to withstand the English should they next insist on turning the fort over to their control, Sept. 8. 66 Founding. 1664. Governor Nicolls sends Col. George Cartwright and Captains Daniel Broadhead and John Manning, with a portion of the militia, bearing a letter to the " magistrates and inhabitants of ffort Aurania " (a Latin form of "orange," applied to Fort Orange by the English), ordering a peaceful surrender in these words : " These are to will and require you and every of you to bee ayding and assisting to Col. George Cartwright in the prosecution of his Majesty's interest against all such of what nation soever as shall oppose the peaceable surrender and quiet possession of the fifort Aurania, and to obey him the said Col. George Cartwright according to such instructions as I have given him in case the Mohawks or other Indyans shall attempt any thing against the lives, goods or chattells of those who are now under the protection and obedience of his Majesty of Great Britaine ; wherefore you nor any of you are to fayle as you will answer the contrary at your utmost perills. Given under my hand and scale att ffort James in New Yorke on Manhattans Island, this tenth day of September, 1664. R. Nicolls." Sept. 10. Vice-Director Johannes de la Montague, for the Dutch West India Company, surrenders Fort Orange, the fort itself and the settle- ment about it, to the English, as represented by Col. George Cartwright, Sept. 24. • • * a I b a n ^» lEnciKsb IRule 1664. The English being in absolute control of Fort Orange, Beverswyck and Rensselaerswyck, the place is formally named Albany in honor of James, Duke of York and Albany, brother of Charles II. of England, Sept. 24. Captain John Manning is placed in charge of Fort Albany (until now known as Fort Orange) and Dirk van Schelluyne made clerk of the Albany court. Jeremias Van Rensselaer takes the oath of allegiance to King Charles II., and is allowed to continue the conduct of his Manor the same as before, provided that his tenants also take the oath of allegiance and that within a year from October i8th he will take out a patent under the king, Sept. 25. DUKE OF YORK AND ALBANY. The city was named in honor of James, Duke of York and Albany, when the Dutch surrendered the place to the English, Sept. 24, 1664. Founding. 67 1664-1665. The Mohawks and Senecas make a treaty with Colonel Cartwright, being given to understand that they are to enjoy the same bene- fits and rights as under the Dutch rule, October. Johannes de la Montague closes his term (since Sept. 28, 1656) as vice-director at Fort Orange for the Dutch West India Com- pany, October. 1665. Governor Nicolls comes to Albany, and while here relieves Captain John Manning by placing Captain John Baker in charge of Fort Albany, and he is made the schout (sheriff) of Albany, August. Captain John Baker instructed, as commandant at Fort Albany, as follows : " In matters capitall or treatyes with ye Indians you are to sit in ye fort with ye shout and commissaryes as ye upper court whereof you are to bee president and upon equall division of voices to have the castinge & decisive voice. But in ye ordi- nary courts for civill affaires you have nothing to doe. You are to keepe a faire correspondence with ye commissaryes and towarde all ye inhabitants & endeavor to live as brothers to- gether, avoiding all occasion of publick controversy or falling out. But if you have any greevance make it knowne calmly without heate or passion to ye court. And if they do not give redresse you are to remitt ye matter to mee as it was delivered to ye court. Lett not your eares bee abused with private storyes of ye Dutch being disaffected to ye English, for generally wee can not expect they love us. But when you have any sufficient testimony against any Dutchman of words or actions tending to ye breach of peace or scandalous defamcon deliver over the testimonyes to the comisaryes from whom I expect justice shall bee done. You are to cause the guard house to be repaired, as also other necessarye repaires to bee made, with as little expence as is possible, knowing the narrow- ness of our present condition. If it shall at any time happen that ye Indyans committ any violence at or neare Albany, you are to joyne in councell with ye comissaryes what is best to bee done till my further directions can bee knowne." September. Governor Nicolls, at New York city, licenses Jan Jurrianse Becker to teach in the Dutch tongue, and appoints John Shutte to be the first English school-teacher at Albany, giving the following license : " Whereas the teaching of the English Tongue is necessary in this Government ; I have, therefore, thought fitt to 68 Founding. 1665-1666. give License to John Shntte to bee thi English Schoohnaster at Albany : And upon condition that the said John Shutte shall not demand any more wages from each Schollar than is given by the Dutch to their Dutch Schoolmasters. I have further granted to the said John Shutte that hee shall bee the only English Schoolmaster at Albany." Oct. 12. 1666. Daniel de Remy de Courcelles leads 300 French militia and 200 Canadians to punish the Mohawks along the river of that name and teach them to beware how they make any further raids into Canada ; but when nearing Schenectady his party is ambuscaded by the Mohawks, whose scouts had given timely warning, February. Albanians, having just begun to realize a change of government to the British realm from the Dutch, are surprised to learn that a large body of French soldiers under De Courcelles is within twenty miles of their city, and wonder whether they are to be submitted to a rapacious conflict for territory to be added to the French possessions, Feb. 19. Three prominent citizens are delegated to go to Schenectady at once and learn why De Courcelles had marched a French force into a British dominion, and he explained, adding that he had not heard about the change of government from Dutch to English. He willingly agrees to return without delay to Canada, where- upon he is aided with provisions and some wine, Feb. 20. The dispute as to whether Albany is in Rensselaerswyck or that place in Albany, a matter of precedence in settlement and land grants, continues, and becomes a mooted question now that there had been a change of government for the village adjoining on the south, Beverswyck or Fort Orange. Hence, Jeremias Van Rensselaer seeks to discover the views held by Governor Nic- olls, writing an implication to the latter at New York that the place Albany extended upon the Manor and that part was there- fore under the Rensselaerswyck court, Oct. 25. Governor Nicolls tells Jeremias Van Rensselaer that he is in error regarding the extent of the court of Rensselaerswyck's juris- diction, stating in a letter to him as follows : " By the date of yr letter from Renzelaerwicke, in Albany, the 25th, I perceive o ^ O " O w en O Pi o 3 o o c O ^3 > a 1* .ti > ■s tC J^^ S '-' n D rt U) O^ ^ J s T3 (U w p w \0 -M ,-, tfl H . (U Q< (J CC o 13 (J^ Uh ^^ c o 'S^ ^ 'c c c o •- •- - O U ^ -o "O C. c o < .- ■ c & o o •- 0-5 U5 t^ Founding. "jy 1676-1678. Rev. Nicolaas Van Rensselaer appeals to the Governor and gives bond of 1,500 guilders to prosecute appeal. A bond of 5,000 English pounds is required of Leisler and 1,000 pounds of Mil- burne ; the former on failing to furnish bond is ordered under arrest, September. The Governor takes the court's papers for reconsideration and the court having agreed that the two dominies be reconciled and forgive one another, the Governor orders a reconciliation be- tween the parties in dispute, Jacob Leisler and Jacob Milburne to pay all costs of trial as they had given rise to the matter, October. 1677. The hostile Indians of New York had terrorized the country even so far to the south as Chesapeake Bay and throughout Mary- land, finding it quite easy to go by canoes from Oneida to a creek emptying into the Susquehanna River, and being expert rifle shots their forage was dreaded by the white people. For this reason New York undertakes to put a stop to the excur- sions, and welcomes Col. Henry Coursey and Philemon Lloyd, delegates sent by Lieut. -Gov. Notley of Maryland, to make an Indian treaty at Albany. The commission, aided by inter- preters, meets with the Indian chiefs in the Court-House, Aug. 3. The Indians make a compact with the Maryland and Virginia dele- gates that the Mohawks, Onondagas, Oneidas, Cayugas and Senecas will commit no more depredations in those provinces, Aug. 5. Governor Andros deposes Rev. Nicolaas Van Rensselaer as a minis- ter of the Dutch Reformed faith. 1678. A whipping-post, pillory and stocks erected in the New England fashion ; the law of this time commands that burglars be branded on the head for the first offence, but put to death for a crime committed a third time. Founding. 1678-1680. Male inhabitants, between i6 and 60 years, except physicians, minis- ters, justices, school-masters and the like, required to enroll in the provincial militia. The day set apart for celebration of the birthday of King Charles II. May 29. Governor Andros ordered to issue a patent to Kiliaen Van Rensse- laer's heirs, granting- possession of Rensselaerswyck but not of Fort Orange (now Fort Albany) or land in the immediate vicinity of that fort, and directing tenants of houses to pav the Manor yearly two beaverskins for a large house, one skin for a house of medium size and half a skin for a small residence, this agreement to endure thirty-one years, after which the tenants may agree upon terms of rental, June 7. Rev. Nicolaas Van Rensselaer, Director of the colony and brother of Jeremiah Van Rensselaer (who died Oct. 14, 1674), dies, leaving Alida Schuyler his widow, but no children, and the widow of his brother, on crutches, too infirm to conduct affairs of Rensselaerswyck, November. Jeremiah Van Rensselaer's widow notifies her brother, Stephanus Van Cortlandt, at New York, of the death of Dominie Nicolaas Van Rensselaer, her brother-in-law, who had directed the affairs of the colony for her, and urges him to come to Rensselaers- wyck to manage the colony ; but he does not accept her offer, December. 1679. Jeremiah Van Rensselaer's aged widow, urges his younger brother, Richard, to come from Holland and assist her in the manage- ment of Rensselaerswyck, January. 1680. The Lutheran society purchases a lot on the west side of South Pearl street, between Fludson and Beaver streets (site of the City Building) from Capt. Abram Staats, March 28. Jasper Dankers and Pieter Sluyter, two Labadist missionaries from Friesland, Holland, visit Albany on their travels in America, and make notes of what they behold, arriving here by boat this day and spending about a fortnight as the guests of various citizens, principally of Robert Sanders, April 21. J2 o P^ > ilj rt O u Ph -u U-, "o IJh W O o n m o -d O x; -a O nj (U Pi ■^ -1 H >i o >. < OS X ~ Mh rt • = c c y <-5 2 OJ X 3 ■^ '*^ o o T) t/i rt ■?n -M a ■"■' n O c 4J J= \£J> H 1) rt X Founding. 79 1680. The missionaries visit Cohoes Falls on horseback, and are objects of curiosity, ^P^^^ ^3- The Labadist missionaries call at the Van Rensselaer Manor House, describing their visit in their diary as follows : " We went to call upon a certain Madam Rentselaer, widow of Heer Rentse- laer, son of the founder of the colony of Rentselaerswyck, com- prising twelve miles square from Fort Orange, that is, twenty- four miles square in all. She is in possession of the place, and administers it as Patronesse, until one Richard van Rentselaer, residing at Amsterdam, shall arrive in this country, whom she expected in the summer, when he would assume the manage- ment of it himself. This lady was polite, quite well-informed, and of good life and disposition. '■= * * The breaking up of the ice had once carried away her mansion, and everything connected with it. * * * She treated us kindly. =i= * * We went to look at several of her mills at work, which she had there on an ever-running stream, grist-mills, saw-mills, and others. One of the grist-mills can grind 120 schepels of meal in twenty-four hours, that is five an hour. Returning to the house, we politely took our leave. Her residence is about a quarter of an hour from Albany up the river." April 27. The missionaries, having listened to the preaching of Dominic Schaets in the morning, enjoy a walk to the island south of the city, where they view, still in existence at this time, the old " Castle " or stone fort built by the French fur-traders in 1540, some 70 years ere Henry Hudson sailed up the river of his name, making the following record : " In the afternoon, we took a walk to an island upon the end of which there is a fort built, they say, by the Spaniards. That a fort has been there is evident enough from the earth thrown up, but it is not to be supposed that the Spaniards came so far inland to build forts, when there are no monuments of them to be seen down on the seacoasts. where, however, they have been, according to the tradition of the Indians. This spot is but a short hour's dis- tance below Albany, on the west side of the river." April 28. The Labadist missionaries explain the name " Fuyck," as applied to Fort Orange, as follows : " Before we quit Albany, we must say a word about the place. It was formerly named the Fuyck by the Hollanders, who first settled there on account of two rows of houses standing there, opposite to each other, which being wide enough apart in the beginning, finally ran quite together like a fuyck (an expanding net, narrowing at one end) and therefore, they gave it this name, which, although 8o Founding. 1680-1681. the place is built up, it still bears with many, especially the Dutch and Indians living about there. It is nearly square, anJ lies against a hill, with several good streets, on which there may be about eighty or ninety houses. Fort Orange, constructed by the Dutch, lies below on the bank of the river, and is set off with palisades, filled in with earth on the inside. It is now abandoned by the English, who have built a similar one back of the town, high up on the declivity of the hill, from which it commands the place. From the other side of this fort, the inhabitants have brought a spring of water, under the fort and under the ground into the town, where they have in several places fountains always of clear, fresh, cool water. The town is surrounded by palisades, and has several gates corresponding to the streets. It has a Dutch Reformed, and a Lutheran church." May. Robert Livingston granted permission by Governor Andros to pur- chase of the Mohegan Indians a tract on Roelof Jansen's kill, emptying into the river south of the site of Hudson, N. Y., (although he does not complete the purchase for three years) contemplating the erection of his own manorial estate, Nov. 12. Newton's comet appears as an apparition to superstitious Albanians in the southwestern sky, Dec. 9. The comet makes its nearest approach to the sun, and. many become greatly alarmed at the sight, Dec. 18. 1681. Albanians so horrified by Newton's comet that the magistrates write to Capt. Anthony Brockholls, New York, who was acting as deputy for Governor Andros while that official is on a trip to England, as follows : " Wee doubt not but yow have seen ye DreadfuU Comett wh appeared in ye southwest, on ye 9th of Decembr Last, about 2 a clock in ye afternoon, fair sunn- shyne wether, a little above ye Sonn, wch takes its course more Northerly, and was seen the Sunday night after, about Twy- Light with a very fyery Tail or Streemer in ye West To ye great astoneshment of all Spectators, & is now seen every Night •wt Clear wether. Undoubtedly God Threatens us wh Dread - full Punishments if wee doe not . Repent. Wee would have Caused ye Dominie Proclaim a Day of fasting and humiliation to-morrow to be kept on Weddensday ye 12 Jany in ye Town Founding. 8i 1681-1683. of Albany & Dependencies — if we thought our Power & author- ity did extend so farr, and would have been well Resented by Yourself, for all Persons ought to humble Themselves in such a Time, and Pray to God to Withdraw his Righteous Juge- ments from us, as he did to Nineve. Therefore if you would be pleased to grant your approbation wee would willingly cause a day of fasting & humiliation to be kept, if it were monthly." Jan. I. Governor Andros, having left Manhattan for Sandy Point (Hook) on the 7th, he sails for a visit to England, Jan. ii. Captain Brockholls replies, to the magistrates at Albany, stating his suspicions and superstitions : " Wee haue seen the Comett not att the time you mention only in the Evening The Streame being very large but know not its predicts or Events, and as they Certainly threaten God's Vengence and Judgments and are prmonitors to us Soe I Doubt not of yor and each of yor performance of yr Duty by prayer &c. as becomes good Chris- tians Especially at this time." January. 1682. At this time a beaver-skin bears the value of two pieces of eight, of 40 stivers each, a " piece of eight " being a Spanish dollar or 8 reals ; thus, a man might make payment in a beaver-skin or $1.60 in coin or wampum. According to this, when the in- habitants entered their names on the subscription book for the annual support of a new pastor of the Dutch Church, Dominie Dellius, the richest, headed by Pieter Schuyler, signing for 6 "pieces of eight," and the poorer for 3, they promise about $10 and $5 respectively. Col. Thomas Dongan (born at Castletown, County Kildare, Ireland, in 1634) is commissioned by James, Duke of York and Albany, to be Governor of the Province of New York, September. 1683. Robert Livingston marries Alida Schuyler, who in November, 1678, was left a widow by the death of Rev. Nicolaas Van Rensselaer. Robert Livingston secures deed from the Mohegan Indians to his tract of about 2,000 acres of flats and 1,800 acres of woodland about Roelof Jansen's kill (site of the city of Hudson and Claverack, N. Y.), July 12. 82 • Founding. 1683. Dominie Gideon Schaets having become aged and unable properly to fulfill the duties of his ofifice, the magistrates had requested the classis of Amsterdam to send an assistant, and the Rev. Godfriedus Dellius arrives to fill the post, promised a salary of 9CK) guilders, and expected to " edify " the people of Schenec- tady once in six weeks, Aug. 2. Col. Thomas Dongan arrives at New York to be Governor of the Province of New York, Aug. 25. Following out the order of Governor Dongan, Albany and Rensse- laerswyck elect two delegates of the eighteen representatives to attend the first General Assembly of the province the follow- ing month at Fort James, Sept. 13. William Penn's agents make oiTers to the Indians for lands in New York bordering the headwaters of the Susquehanna River, which Governor Dongan learns about while at Albany and does not favor, September. The Albany magistrates write to Governor Dongan that an in- terpreter named Arnout Cornelissen Viele arrived from the Indians of the central part of the province, called the Western Indians, the night before, bearing the information which is narrated in the letter, as follows : " Ye four nations vizt Cajouges, Onondages, Oneydes & Maquase are upon there way hither and may be expected here to-morrow. Wee are credibly Inform'd of there willingness to dispose of ye Susquehanna River, being verry glad to hear off Christians intending to come and live there, it being much nearer them then this place and much easier to get thither with there bever. The River being navigable wt Canoes till hard by there Castles, soe yt if Wm Penn buys said River, it will tend to ye utter Ruine off ye Bevr trade, as ye Indians themselfs doe acknowledge and Conse- quently to ye great Prejudice off his Royall highnesse Revenues and his whole Territoryes in general, all which we doe humbly offer to your hours serious Considracon. Wee presume that there hath not any thing Ever been mooved or agitated from ye first settleing of these Parts, more Prejudiciall to his Royal highnesse Interest, and ye Inhabitants of this his governt then this businesse of ye Susquehanna River. The french its true have endevoured to take away our trade by Peace mealls but this will cutt it all off at once. The day after your hour de- parted, wee sent a draught of ye River and how near there Castles lie to it, drawne by our Scert [Robert Livingston] as near as ye Indians could deskribe." Sept. 24. Founding. 1683-1684. A conference is held in the Court-House between the magistrates and Onondaga and Cayuga sachems, one of the chiefs saying: " I have slept but little through the night though I constantly tried, and think that the land cannot be sold without Corker's order [referring to the Governor] for we transferred it to this government four years ago. Therefore we shall do nothing in the sale without Corlaer or his order or those who represent him. That land belongs to us Cayugas and Onondagas alone ; the other three nations namely, the Sinnekes, Oneydes, and Maquaas have nothing to do with it. * * '■'' We now convey and transport it again and give it to the governor-general or those who now represent him," Sept. 26. The Albany magistrates are delighted with the successful issue of the conference, finding it impossible to secure the ratification of the agreement whereby New York Province secures hun- dreds of square miles of territory in the central and southern part of the Province by giving the Indians two blankets, four coats, two guns, three kettles, 50 pounds of lead, 25 pounds of powder and some duffel-cloth, Sept. 26. First General Assembly of New York, allowing the freeholders of the Province a voice in the conduct of affairs, composed of 18 delegates, convenes in Fort James at New York city, Oct. 17. The General Assembly passes the " Charter of Libertys and Privi- leges," and decides to hold sessions at least once in three years, the delegates to be elected by freemen and the majority to be decisive, Oct. 30. The General Assembly passes a law to divide the Province into the regular English shires or counties, and twelve are formed, viz. : Albany, Cornwall, Duchess's, Duke's, King's, New York, Orange, Queen's, Richmond, Suffolk, Westchester, Ulster, Nov. I. 1684. King Charles II. of England dies, and by James, Duke of York and Albany, succeeding to the English throne as King James 11., the Province of New York becomes property of the English realm, Feb. 6. Death of Philip Pietersen Schuyler, who came to this country in 1650 and married that year Margritta Van Slechtenhorst, buy- ing the Flatts at Watervliet for his own family estate, March 9. 84 Founding. 1684-1686. Burial of Ph. P. Schuyler in a vault of the Dutch Reformed Church at the foot of Yonkers (State) street, March 11. Governor Dongan grants a patent for the 2,000 acres of land beside Roelof Jansen's kill that had been secured to Robert Livingston by deed of July 12, 1683, from the Mohegan Indians, Nov. 4. Pieter Schuyler appointed lieutenant of a troop of horse, and Jan Jansen Bleecker and Johannes Wendell commissioned infantry captains, Dec. 15. 1685. Robert Livingston petitions Governor Dongan for license to buy from the Mohegan Indians an additional tract of 300 acres along Roelof Jansen's kill, claiming the first tract was not satisfactory, this tract, called Tackhanick, behind Potthook (Claverack), June 3. Mohegan Indians deed 300 acres at Tackhanick (Claverack) to Robert Livingston, Aug. 10. Albany called the House of Peace by a Mohawk chief addressing commissioners from Virginia and sachems of the Powhatan, Pamunkey, Matapony and Chickahominy tribes assembled here to renew an important treaty with the Mohawks, Senecas, Cayugas, Onondagas and Oneidas, August. 1686. Governor Dongan grants a charter to New York, making it a city, (which, however, remains in force only until 1730), April ■I'j. Governor Dongan comes to Albau}^ and is requested by the most prominent men to issue a Charter by which the village may have larger boundaries and change from a village to a city, which form of government would allow a higher guarantee of property titles than that of magistrates. May. Governor Dongan considers issuance of a Charter to Albany and what its provisions shall be. especially as to the boundaries. He is also obliged to obtain relinquishment of the Van Rensselaer claims to that land that the people would include within the bounds, and his decision (as reported Feb. 22, 1687, to the Founding. 85 1686. privy coucil of King James) is as follows: "The Town of Albany lyes within the Ranslaers Colony. And to say the truth the Ranslaers had the right to it, for it was they settled the place, and upon a petition of one of them to our present King (James II.) about Albany the Petitioner was referred to his Matys Council at Law, who upon perusal of the Ranslaers Papers, made their return that it was their opinion that it did belong to them. Upon which there was an order sent over to Sir Edmund x^ndros that the Ranslaers should be put in pos- session of Albany, & that every house should pay some two Beavers, some more, some less, according to their dimensions, Pr annum, for thirty years & afterwards the Ranslaers to put what rent upon them they could agree for. What reason Sir Edmund Andros has given for not putting these orders into execution I know not. The Ranslaers came & brought mee the same orders which I thought not convenient to execute, judgeing it not for his Matys Interest that the second Town of the Government & which brings his Maty soe great a Revenue, should bee in the hands of any particular men. The town of itself is upon a barren sandy spot of Land, & the Inhabitants live wholly upon Trade with the Indians. By the means of Mr. James Graham, Judge [John] Palmer & Mr [Stephanus van] Cortlandt that have great influence on that people, I got the Ranslaers to release their pretence to the Town and sixteen miles into the Country for Commons to the King, with liberty to cut firewood within the Colony for one & twenty years. After I had obtained this release of the Ranslaers I passed the Patent for Albany, wherein was included the aforemen- tioned Pasture, to which the People apprehended they had so good a right that they expressed themselves discontented at my reserving a small spot of it for a garden for the use of the Garrison. That the people of Albany has given mee seven hundred pounds is untrue. I am but promised three hundred pounds which is not near my Prquisits, viz. ten shillings for every house & the like for every hundred acres patented by mee." !""«. Col. Pieter Schuyler and Robert Livingston, being apprised of the Charter beine in readiness, repair to New York to procure it, July. Albany made a city, Governor Thomas Dongan issuing a Charter in the name of King James II. of England, signed by Dongan on July 22, 1686. • • • Cbarter. The citizens of Albany commissioned Pieter Schuyler and Robert Livingston to go to New York city and receive the Charter, from the hands of Gov. Thomas Dongan of the Province of New York. He signed this important document on July 22, 1686, and thereupon delivered it unto them. The original is on file in the City Hall, in the custody of the City Clerk. inttgan (ill^artpr. 5(i..^... *«*■?;«. /f»'i.M.-vp«.4(t, -J o^-rf .» cr. t,o"TA,^S»rf/i *• 1-2)^*^ '-^ <*™'**-'*»-^''^^*«f'''°^'**^ ((»™>fa«-.J. Wh-3«U),«&*^ cA»*Cci*.^rt,;,^, ^i**t^-o^4ffKu^m^;,u^,.ftiri^ y.^ynliufcx-w T - ^j' i'i]j_/'?lrir, .MNC.^/f.! ^.MiCui^ ..^>MMf.^v/ ftiz.tj.^tg, '-v^a. (Srantri lluly 22. IHBfi. Qlttg of Albang. 5^. f . Charter- Thomas Dongan, lieutenant and governor of the province of New York, and dependencies in America, under his most sacred majesty James the Second, by the grace of God, of England, Scot- land, France and Ireland, king, defender of the faith, &c.. and supreme lord and proprietor of the said province of New York and its dependencies, to all persons to whom these presents ^-hall or may come, or in any wise concern, sendeth greeting : WHEREAS the town of Albany is an ancient town within the said province, and the inhabitants of the said town have held, used and enjoyed, as well within the same as elsewhere within the said province, divers and sundry rights, liberties, privileges, franchises, free customs, preeminences, advantages, jurisdictions, emoluments, and immunities, as well as by prescription, as by grants, confirmations and proclamations, not only by divers governors and commanders-in- chief in the said province, under his said majesty, but also of several governors, generals and commanders-in-chief of the Nether-Dutch Nation, whilst the same was or has been under their powers and subjection. And whereas divers lands tenements and heredita- ments, jurisdictions, liberties, immunities and privileges have hereto- fore been given and granted to the inhabitants of the said town, some- times by the name of commissaries of the town of Beverwyck; sometimes by the name of .yc/?^/'(7/?(?/? of Williamstadt ; and sometimes by the name of justices of the peace for the town of Albany; and by divers other names, as by their several grants, writings, records and minutes amongst other things may more fully appear. And whereas the inhabitants of the said town have erected, built, and appropriated at their own proper cost and charges, several public buildings, accommodations, and conveniences for the said town, as also certain pieces or parcels of ground for the use of the same, that is to say, the town-hall, or stadt-house, with the ground thereunto belonging; the church or meeting place, with the ground about the same ; the burial place, adjoining to the palisades at the southeast end of the town ; the watch house and ground thereunto belonging; a certain piece or parcel of land, commonly called or known by the name of the Pasture, situate, lying and being to the southward of the said town, near the place where the old fort stood and extending along Hudson river, till it comes over against the most northerly point of the island, commonly called Martin Gerit- 90 CHARTER. sen's island, having to the east Hudson's river, to the south the manor of Rensselaerwyck, to the v^est the highway leading to the town, the Pasture late in the tenure and occupation of Martin Gerritsen, and the Pasture late in the tenure and occupation of Casper Jacobse, to the north the several pastures late in the tenure and occupation of Robert Sanders, Myndert Harmense, and Evert Wendel, and the several gardens late in the tenures and occupation of Dirk Wessels, Killian Van Rensselaer and Abraham Staats, with their and every of their appurtenances; and also have established and settled one P>rry from the said town to Greenbush, situate on the other side of Hudson's river, for the accommodation and conve- niency of passengers, the said citizens and travellers. And whereas several the inhabitants of the town, do hold from and under his most sacred majesty respectively, as well by several respective patents, grants and conveyances, made and granted by the late governors and commanders-in-chief of the said province, as other- wise, several and respective messuages, lands, tenements, and here- ditaments, in the town of Albany aforesaid, and that the said inhabitants of the said town of Albany and their heirs and assigns respectively, may hold, exercise, and enjoy, not only such and the same liberties, privileges, franchises, rights, royalties, free customs, jurisdictions and immunities, as they anciently have had, held, used and enjoyed, but also such public buildings, accommodations, con- veniences, messuages, lands, tenements and hereditaments in the said town of Albany, which as aforesaid, have been by the inhabit- ants erected and built, or which have as aforesaid been held, enjoyed, granted, and conveyed unto them, or any of them respectively. Know ye therefore, that I the said Thomas Dongan, by virtue of the commission and authority unto me given, and power in me pre- siding, at the humble petition of the justices of the peace of the said town of Albany, and for divers other good causes and con- siderations me thereunto moving, have given, granted, ratified and confirmed, and by these presents, for and on behalf of his most sacred majesty aforesaid, his heirs and successors, do give, grant, ratify, and confi.rm unto the said inhabitants of the said town, here- inafter agreed to be called by the name or names of the Mayor, Alderman, and Commonalty of the City of Albany, all and every such and the same liberties, privileges, franchises, rights, royalties, free customs, jurisdictions, and immunities, which they have anciently had, held and enjoyed, provided always, that none of the said liberties, privileges, franchises, rights, free customs, juris- dictions, or immunities, be inconsistent with, or repugnant to, the laws of His Majesty's Kingdom of England, or other the laws of the general assembly of this province ; and the aforesaid public CHARTER. 91 buildings, accommodations and conveniences, pieces or parcels of ground in the said town, that is to say, the said town hall or stadt house, with the ground thereunto belonging; the said church or meeting place, with the ground about the same; the said burying place, the watch house, and ground thereto belonging; the said pasture and the aforementioned ferry, with their and every of their rights, members, and appurtenances, together with all the profits, benefits and advantages that shall or may accrue or arise at all times hereafter, for anchorage or wharfage in the harbor, port or wharf of the said city, with all and singular the rents, issues, profits, gains and advantages which shall or may arise, grow or accrue by the said town-hall or stadt-house, and the ground thereunto be- longing ; church or meeting-place, with the ground about the same ; burying-place, watch-house, pasture, ferry, and other the above mentioned premises, or any of them, and also all and every the streets, lanes, highways and alleys, within the said city, for the public use and service of the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city, and of the inhabitants of the places adjacent, and travellers there; together with full power, licence and authority to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty, and their successors for ever, to establish, appoint, order, and direct the establishing, mak- ing, laying-out, ordering, amending, and repairing of all streets, lanes, alleys, highways and bridges, water courses and ferries in and throughout the said city, or leading to the same, necessary, needful and convenient for the inhabitants of the said city, and the parts adjacent, and for travellers there : Provided always, that the said license, so as above granted for the establishing, making, and laying out streets, lanes, alleys, highways, ferries and bridges, be not extended or construed to extend, to the taking away of any person or persons right or property, without his or their consent, or by some known law of the said province. And for the consideration aforesaid, I do likewise give, grant, ratify, and confirm unto all and every the respective inhabitants of the said city of Albany, and their several and respective heirs and assigns, all and every the several respective messuages, lands, tenements, and hereditaments situate, lying and being in the said city, to them severally and respectively granted, conveyed, and confirmed by any the late governors, lieutenants or commanders in chief of the said province, or by the commissaries or justices of the peace, or other magistrates of Albany aforesaid, or otherwise howsoever ; to hold to their several and respective heirs and assigns forever. And I do by these presents, give and grant to the said mayor, aldermen, and conunonalty of the said city of Albany, all the waste, vacant, unpatented and unappropriated land, lying and being within 92 CHARTER. the said city of Albany, and the precincts and liberties thereof, ex- tending- and reaching- to the low water mark, in, by, and through all parts of the said city; together with all rivers, rivulets, coves, creeks, ponds, water courses, in the said city, not heretofore given or granted, by any of the former governors, lieutenants, or com- manders-in-chief, under their, or some of their respective hands and seals, or the seal of the province, to some respective person or persons, late inhabitants of the said city, or of other parts of the said province; and also the royalties of fishing, fowling, hunting, hawking, mines, minerals, and other royalties and privileges, belong- ing or appertaining- to the city of Albany (gold and silver mines only excepted.) And I do by these presents give, grant, and confirm unto the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors, forever, full and free licence and liberty of fishing in Hudson's river, not only within the limits of the said city, but without, even so far northward and southward, as the river does extend itself, within the said county of Albany, together with free liberty, license, and authority to and for the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of the city of Albany aforesaid, and their successors, at all time and times hereafter, for and during the space of one and twenty years, from and after the fourth day of Novem- ber last past, to be accomplished and fully to be compleat and ended, to cut down and carry away, out of any part of the manor of Rens- selaerwyck (provided it be not within any fenced or inclosed land) such firewood and timber, for building and fencing, as to them shall seem meet and convenient. And I do by these presents, grant unto the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of the city of Albany, and their successors for ever hereafter; all such strays as shall be taken within the limits, pre- cincts, and bounds of the said city. And I do by these presents, give and grant unto the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Albany, and their suc- cessors, full liberty and license at their pleasure, to purchase from the Indians, the quantity of five hundred acres of low or meadow land, lying at a certain place, called or known by the name of Schaahtecogne, which quantity of five hundred acres, shall, and may be, in what part of Schaahtecogiie, or the land adjacent, as they the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty, of the city of Albany, shall think most convenient. And I do by these presents, give and grant unto the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty, full power and license at their pleasure, likewise to purchase from the Indians, the quantity of one thousand acres of low or meadow land, lying at a certain place, called or known by the name of Tioimondoroge, which quantity of one thou- CHARTER. 93 sand acres of low or meadow land, shall, and may be in what part of Tioiiiiondoroge, or the land adjacent on both sides of the river, as they the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, shall think most convenient ; which said several parcels of low or meadow land, I do hereby in behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and successors give, grant and confirm unto the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Albany aforesaid, to be and remain to the use and behoof of them, and their suc- cessors forever. To have and to hold, all and singular the premises, to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors forever, rendering and paying therefor unto his most sacred majesty, his heirs, successors and assigns, or to such ofificer or receiver, as shall be appointed to receive the same, yearly, forever hereafter, the annual quit rent or acknowledgement of one beaver skin, in Albany, on the five and twentieth day of March, yearly forever. And moreover, I will, and by these presents for his said majesty, his heirs and successors, grant, appoint, and declare, that the said city of Albany, and the compass, precincts, and limits thereof, and the jurisdiction of the same, shall from henceforth extend and reach itself, and shall and may be able to reach forth and extend itself, as well in length and in breadth, as in circuit, on the east by Hudson's river, so far as low water mark ; to the south, by a line to be drawn from the southermost end of the Pasture, at the north end of the said island, called Martin Gerritsen's island, running back into the woods, sixteen English miles due northwest, to a certain kill or creek, called the Sandkill, on the north, to a line to be drawn from the post that was set by Governor Stuyvesant, near Hudson's river, running likewise northwest, sixteen English miles, and on the west by a straight line, to be drawn from the points of the said south and north lines; wherefore by these presents, I do firmly enjoin and command, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs, and suc- cessors that the aforesaid mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city aforesaid, and their successors, shall, and may freely and quietly have, hold, use, and enjoy the aforesaid liberties, authorities, juris- dictions, franchises, rights, royalties, privileges, advantages, exemp- tions, lands, tenements, hereditaments, and premises aforesaid, in manner and form aforesaid, according to the tenure and effect of the aforesaid grants, patents, customs, and these letters patents of grant and confirmation, without the let, hindrance, or impediment, of any of his majesty's governors, lieutenants, or other officers what- soever; and that the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city aforesaid, and their successors, or any of them, in the free use and enjoyment of the premises, or any of them, by the lieutenants or governors of his said majesty, his heirs, and successors, or by any of them, shall not be hindred, molested, or in any wise disturbed. 94 CHARTER. And also I do for and on behalf of his most sacred, majesty, his heirs and successors, ordain and grant to the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Albany, and their successors, by these presents, that for the better government of the said city, liberties and precincts thereof, there shall be forever hereafter, within the said city, a mayor, recorder, town clerk, and six aldermen, and six assistants, to be appointed, nominated, elected, chosen and sworn, as hereinafter is particularly and respectively mentioned, who shall be forever hereafter, called the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Albany, and that there shall be forever, one chamber- lain or treasurer, one sheriff, one coroner, one clerk of the market, one high constable, three sub-constables, and one marshal or ser- geant at mace, to be appointed, chosen, and sworn in manner herein- after mentioned. And I do. by these presents, for and on the behalf of his most sacred majesty, his heirs and successors, ordain, declare, constitute, grant and appoint, that the mayor, recorder, aldermen and assist- ants of the said city of Albany, for the time being, and their suc- cessors, forever hereafter, be, and shall be, by force of these pres- ents, one body corporate and politic, in deed, fact, and name, by the name of, the mayor, aldermen and commonalty, of the city of Albany; and them by the name of, the mayor, aldermen and com- monalty of the city of Albany, one body corporate and politic, in deed, fact, and name ; and I do really and fully create, ordain, make, constitute, and confirm by these presents, and that by the name of, the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Albany, they may have perpetual succession, and that they, and their successors, forever, by the name of, the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Albany, be, and shall be, forever hereafter, persons able, and in law capable, to have, get, receive, and possess lands, tene- ments, rents, liberties, jurisdictions, franchises, and hereditaments, to them and their successors, in fee simple, or for term of life, lives or years, or otherwise ; and also goods, chattels, and also other things of what nature, quality, or kind soever ; and also to give, grant, let, set, and assign the said lands, tenements, hereditaments, goods, and chattels, and to do and execute all other things in and about the same, by the name aforesaid ; and also, that they be, and forever shall be, persons able in law, capable to plead, and be im- pleaded, answer, and be answered unto, defend, and be defended, in all or any of the courts of his said majesty, and other places whatsoever, and before any judges, justices, and other person or persons whatsoever, in all and all manner of actions, suits, com- plaints, demands, pleas, causes and matters whatsoever, of what nature, kind or quality soever, in the same and the like manner and CHARTER. 95 form as other people of this province, being persons able and in law capable, may plead and be impleaded, answer and be answered unto, defend and be defended, by any lawful ways or means whatso- ever ; and that the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors shall and may forever hereafter, have one common seal to serve for the sealing of all and singular their affairs and businesses, touching or concerning the said corporation. And it shall and may be lawful to and for the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors, as they shall see cause, to break, change, alter and new make their said common seal, and as often as to them it shall seem convenient. And further know ye, that I have assigned, named, ordained and constituted, and by these presents, do assign, name ordain and constitute Peter Schuyler, to be the present mayor of the said city of Albany, and that the said Peter Schuyler, shall remain and con- tinue in the office of mayor there, until another fit person shall be appointed and sworn in the said office, as in and by these presents, is hereafter mentioned and directed. And I have assigned, named, ordained and constituted, and by these presents do assign, name, ordain and constitute, Isaac Swinton, to be the present recorder of the said city, to do and execute all things, which unto the office of recorder of the said city doth, or may any way appertain or belong. And I have assigned, named, ordained and constituted, and by these presents do ordain, constitute, create and declare, Robert Livingston, town clerk of the said city ; to do and execute all things which unto the office of town clerk, doth or may belong. And also I have named, assigned, constituted and made, and by these presents do assign, constitute and make Dirk Wessels, Jan Jans Bleecker, David Schuyler, Johannis Wendel, Lavinus Van Schaick, and Adrian Garritse, citizens and inhabitants of the said city of Albany, to be the present aldermen of said city. And also I have made, assigned, named and constituted, and by these presents do make, assign, name and constitute Joachim Staats, John Lansing, Isaac Verplank, Lawrence Van Ale, Albert Ryckman, and Melgert Winantse, citi- zens and inhabitants of the said city, to be the present assistants of the said city. Also I have assigned, chosen, named and constituted, Jan Bleecker, citizen and inhabitant of the said city, to be the present chamberlain or treasurer, of the city aforesaid. And I have as- signed, named, constituted and appointed, and by these presents do assign, name, constitute and appoint, Richard Pretty, one of the said citizens there, to be the present sheriff of the said city. And I have assigned, named, constituted and appointed, and by these presents do assign, name, constitute and appoint, James Parker, one other of the said citizens, to be the present marshal of the said city. 96 CHARTER. And I do, by these presents, grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors, that the mayor, recorder, aldermen, and assistants of the said city, for the time being, or the mayor and any three or more of the aldermen, and any three or more of the assistants, of the said city, for the time being, be. and shall be called the common council of the said city; and that they, or the greater part of them, shall or may have full power and authority, by virtue of these presents, from time to time, to call and hold common council, within the common council house, or city hall of the said city ; and there, as occasion shall be, to make laws, orders, ordinances and constitutions in writ- ing; and to add, alter, diminish and reform them, from time to time, as to them shall seem necessary and convenient, (not repug- nant to the prerogative of the King's majesty, his heirs or suc- cessors, or to any the laws of the kingdom of England, or other the laws of the general assembly of the province of New York afore- said) for the good rule, oversight, correction and government of the said city, and liberties of the same, and of all the officers thereof, and of the several tradesmen, victuallers, artificers, and of all other people and inhabitants of the city, liberties and precincts aforesaid, and for the preservation of government, the Indian trade, and all other commerce and dealing, and for disposal of all the lands, tenements and hereditaments, goods and chattels of the said corporation : which said laws, ordinances and constitutions, shall be binding to all the inhabitants of the said city, liberties and precincts aforesaid ; and which laws, orders, ordinances and constitutions, so by them to be made as aforesaid, shall be and remain in force, for the space of one year, and no longer, unless they shall be allowed and confirmed by the governor and council, for the time being. And further, I will and grant to the said common council of the said city, for the time being, as often as they make, ordain and establish such laws, orders, ordinances, and constitutions aforesaid, shall or may make, ordain, limit, provide, set, impose, and tax reasonable fines and amerciaments, against and upon all persons offending against such laws, orders, ordinances and constitutions as aforesaid, or any of them, to be made, ordained and established as aforesaid, and the same fines and amerciaments shall and may require, demand, levy, take and receive, by warrants, under the common seal, to and for the use and behoof of the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city, and their successors, either by distress and sale of the goods and chattels of the offenders therein, if such goods and chattels may be found within the said city, liberties and precincts thereof, rendering to such offender and offenders the overplus, or by any other lawful ways or means what- soever. CHARTER. 97 And 1 do by these presents, for the King's majesty, his heirs and successors, approve and ordain the assigning, naming and appoint- ment of the mayor and sheriff of the said city, that it shall be as follows, viz : upon the feast day of St. Michael, the arch angel, yearly, the lieutenant governor or commander in chief, for the time being, by and with the advice of his council, shall nominate and appoint such a person as he shall think fit, to be mayor of the said city, for the year next ensuing; and one other person of sufficient ability in estate, and capacity in understanding, to be sheriff of the said city of Albany, for the year next ensuing ; and that such person as shall be assigned, named and appointed mayor, and such person as shall be assigned, named and appointed sheriff of the said city as aforesaid, shall on the 14th day of October, then next following, in the city-hall or stadt-house aforesaid, take the several and respective corporal oaths aforesaid before the recorder, aldermen and assistants or any three of the aldermen and four of the assistants of the said city, for the time being, for the due execution of their respective offices as aforesaid; and that the said mayor and sheriff, so to be nominated and ap- pointed as aforesaid, shall remain and continue in their respective offices, until another fit person shall be nominated, appointed and sworn in the place of mayor, and one other person shall be nomi- nated, appointed and sworn in the place of sheriff of the said city, in manner aforesaid : which oaths the said recorder, aldermen and assistants, or any three or more of the aldermen, shall and may law- fully administer, and have hereby power to administer to the said Mayor and the said sheriff, so nominated and appointed, from time to time, accordingly. And further, that according to usage and custom, the recorder and town clerk of the said city, shall be persons of good capacity and understanding, such as his most sacred majesty, his heirs and suc- cessors, shall in the said respective offices of recorder and town clerk respectively appoint and commissionate ; and for defect of such appointment, and commissionating, by his most sacred majesty as aforesaid, his heirs and successors, to be such persons as the said governor, lieutenant or commander in chief of the said province, for the time being shall appoint or commissionate ; which persons so commissionated to the said office of recorder and office of town clerk respectively, shall have, hold and enjoy the said offices respectively, according to the tenor and effect of the said respective commissions, and not otherwise. And further, I will, that the recorder, town clerk, aldermen, assist- ants, chamberlain, high constables, petty-constables, and all other officers of the said city, before they, or any of them shall be admitted to enter upon and execute their respective offices, shall be sworn 98 CHARTER. faithfully to execute the same, before the mayor, or any three or more of the aldermen, for the time being. And I do, by these presents, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and suc- cessors, grant, and give power and authority to the mayor and re- corder of the said city, for the time being to administer the same respective oaths to them accordingly. And further, I will, and by these presents, do grant for and on behalf of his most sacred majesty, his heirs and successors, that the mayor, aldermen and recorder of the said city, for the time being, shall be justices and keepers of the peace of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, and justices to hear and determine matters and causes within the said city, liberties and precincts thereof; and that they or any three or more of them, shall and may forever hereafter have power and authority, by virtue of these presents, to hear and determine all and all manner of petty larcenies, riots, routs, oppres- sions, extortions, and all other trespasses and offences whatsoever within the said city of Albany, and the limits, precincts, and liberties thereof, from time to time, arising and happening, and which shall arise or happen, and any w^ays belong to the office of justices of the peace, and correction and punishment of the offences aforesaid, and every of them, according to the laws of England, and the laws of the said province; and to do and execute all other things in the said city, liberties and precincts aforesaid, so fully and in as ample manner as to the commissioners assigned, and to be assigned for the keeping of the peace in the said city and county of Albany, doth or may belong. And moreover, I do, by these presents, for his majesty, his heirs and successors, will and appoint that the aldermen and assistants, within the said city, be yearly chosen on the feast day of St. Michael the arch angel, for ever, viz : Two aldermen and two assistants for each respective ward, in such public place in the said respective wards, as the aldermen for the time being, for each ward, shall direct and appoint, and that by the majority of voices of the in- habitants of each ward; and that the chamberlain shall be yearly chosen, on the said feast day, in the city hall of the said city, by the said mayor, aldermen and assistants of the said city, or by the mayor or three or more of the aldermen, and three or more of the assistants of the said city, for the time being. And I do, by these presents, constitute and appoint Robert Livingston to be the present town clerk, clerk of the peace, and clerk of the court of pleas, to be holden before the mayor, recorder and aldermen within the said city, and the liberties and precincts thereof. And further, I do by these presents, for his said majesty, his heirs and successors, require and straitly charge and command, that the sheriff, town clerk, clerk of the peace, high constable, petty con- CHARTER. 99 Stables, and all other subordinate officers in the said city, for the time being, and every of them respectively, jointly and severally, as causes shall require, shall attend upon the said mayor, recorder, and aldermen of the said city, for the time being, and every or any of them, according to the duty of their respective place, in and about the executing of such the commands, precepts, warrants and process of them, and every of them, as belongeth and appertaineth to be done or executed. And that the aforesaid mayor, recorder, and aldermen, and every of them, as justices of the peace, and for the time being, by their or any of their warrants, all and every person or persons, for high treason or petty treason, or for suspicion thereof, and for other felonies whatsoever, and all malefactors and disturbers of the peace., and other offenders for any other misdemeanors, who shall be ap- prehended within the said city or liberties thereof, or without the same in any part within the said county, shall and may send and commit, or cause to be sent and committed to the common gaol of the said city, there to remain and be kept in safe custody by the keeper of the said gaol, or his deputy for the time being, until such offender and offenders shall be lawfully delivered thence. And I do, by these presents, for his said majesty, his heirs and successors, charge and require the keeper and keepers of the said gaol for the time being, and his and their deputy and deputies, to receive and take into safe custody, to keep all and singular such person and persons so apprehended, or to be apprehended, sent and committed unto the said gaol, by warrant of the said justices, or any of them as aforesaid, until he or they so sent and committed to the said gaol, shall from thence be delivered by due course of law. And further, I grant and confirm, for his said majesty, his heirs and successors, that the said mayor of the said city for the time being, and no other, shall have power and authority to give and grant licenses annually, under the public seal of the said city, to all tavern keepers, inn keepers, ordinary keepers, victuallers, and all public sellers of wine, strong waters, cider, beer, or any sort of liquors by retail within the city aforesaid, or the liberties and ])re- cincts thereof, or without the same in any part of the said county; and that it shall and may be lawful to and for the said mayor of the said city, for the time being, to ask, demand, and receive for each license by him to be given and granted as aforesaid, such sum or sums of money, as he and the person to whom such license shall be given or granted, shall agree for, not exceeding the sum of thirty shillings, current money of this country, for each license ; all which money, as by the said mayor, shall be so received, shall be used and applied to the public use of the said mayor, aldermen and common- alty of the said city of Albany, without any account thereof to be '. fur .■'■ lOO CHARTER. rendered, made or done to his said majesty, his heirs, successors or assigns, or any of his heutenants, or governors of the said province, for the time being, or any of their deputies. And further, I do grant for his said majesty, his heirs and suc- cessors, that the said mayor of the said city, for the said city, for the time being, and no other, be, and forever shall be clerk of the market within the city aforesaid, and the liberties and precincts, thereof ; and that he and no other, shall and may forever do, execute and perform all and singular acts, deeds and things whatsoever, be- longing to the office of clerk of the market within the city aforesaid, and the liberties and precincts thereof, to be done, executed, and performed. And that the said mayor of the said city for the time being, and no other person or persons, shall or may have assize or assay of bread, wine, beer and wood, and other things to the office of clerk of the market belonging or concerning, as well in the pres- ence as in the absence of his said majesty, his heirs, and successors, or his or their lieutenants or governors here. Also, I will and grant for his said majesty, his heirs and successors, unto the mayor, alder- men and commonalty of the said city for the time being, and their successors forever, that the mayor of the city aforesaid, for the time being, during the time that he shall remain in the said office of mayor, and no other, be, or shall be coroner of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, as well within the city aforesaid, and the liber- ties and precincts thereof, as without the same, within the limits or bounds of the said county : and that he, and no other, shall do or cause to be done and executed, within the said city, limits and pre- cincts thereof, or without the same, within the limits and bounds of the county, all and singular matters and things to the said office of coroner belonging, there to be done. And that the said mayor of the said city for the time being, shall take his corporal oath before the recorder, or any three or more of the aldermen of the said city, well and duly to execute the said office of clerk of the market and coroner of the said city and county, before he take upon him the execution of either of the said offices. And also, I do by these presents, grant unto the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, that if any of the citi- zens of the said city, or inhabitants within the liberties and pre- cincts thereof, that shall after be elected, nominated and chosen to the office of mayor, aldermen, assistants, sheriff or chamberlain of the said city as aforesaid, and have notice of his or their election, shall refuse to deny to take upon him or them to execute that office, to which they shall be so chosen or nominated ; that then, and so often it shall and may be lawful for the mayor, recorder, aldermen and assistants of the said city, for the time being, or the mayor, or GOVERNOR THOMAS DONGAN. Col Thomas Dongan, born at Castletown, Ire., 1634, became Go-c'^^'of .He So^nce o. New Yor. ^-^:^-^-::^-;^:^^ Edmund Andros on Aug. n, 1688. He grantea me ^ 22, 1686. Died at London, Dec. 14, 17^5- CHARTER. lOI any three of the aldermen, and three or more of the assistants of the said city for the time being, to tax, assess, and impose upon such person or persons so refusing or denying, such reasonable or moder-. ate fines and sum of money as to their discretion shall be thought most fit so as the said fine, penalty, or sum, for refusing or denying to hold and execute the office of mayor of the said city, do not ex- ceed the sum of twenty pounds, current money of this country ; and the fine for refusing or denying to hold and execute the place of an alderman do not exceed the sum of ten pounds, like current money ; and the fine for denying or refusing to hold and execute the place of chamberlain, assistant or sheriff, the sum of five pounds, like cur- rent money. And I do, by these presents, for his said majesty, his heirs and successors, authorize the mayor, recorder, aldermen and assistants of the said city for the time being, and the mayor, and three or more of the aldermen, and three or more of the assistants there for the time being, to frustrate and make void the election of such per- son or persons so refusing or denying as aforesaid ; and then, and in such cases, any other fit and able person and persons, citizen and citizens, of the said city, or inhabiting within the liberties and pre- cincts thereof, in convenient times, to elect anew in manner afore- said, directed and prescribed to execute such office and offices so denied or refused to be executed as aforesaid; and that if it shall happen that such person or persons so to be elected anew, shall refuse or deny to take upon him or them any of the said office or offices unto which he or they shall be chosen and elected as afore- said ; then and in such case, the mayor, recorder, aldermen and assist- ants of the said city for the time being, or the said mayor, or three or more of the said aldermen, and three or more of the assistants of the said city for the time being, shall or may set, and impose upon them so denying or refusing, such and the like moderate fines as is before set down in the like cases to the respective offices, with such limitations as aforesaid; and also in such and the like manner as aforesaid, to continue and make void such election and elections, and make new elections as often as need shall be and require ; all which said fines so set and imposed, I do, by these presents, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs, successor and assigns, grant to be, and shall be and remain, and belong unto, and shall be put into the possession and seizen of the mayor, aldermen and commonalty for the time being, and their successors, to be levied and taken by war- rant under the common seal, and by distress and sale of the goods and chattels of the several persons so refusing or denying as afore- said, if such goods and chattels may be found within the said city, liberties and precincts thereof, rendering to the parties the overplus, I02 CHARTER. or by any other ways or lawful means whatsoever, to the only use of the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors, without any account to be rendered, made or done to the said king's majesty, his heirs successors, or assigns for the same. And know ye, that for the better government of the said city, and for the welfare of the citizens, tradesmen and inhabitants thereof, I do by these presents, for his said majesty his heirs and successors, give and grant to the said ma3^or, aldermen and commonalty of the said city, and their successors, that the mayor, recorder and alder- men, or the mayor or any three or more of the aldermen, for the time being, shall, from time to time and all times hereafter, have full power and authority, under the common seal, to make free citizens of the said city and liberties thereof; and no person or persons whatsoever, other than such free citizens, shall hereafter use any art, trade, mystery or manual occupation within the said city, liberties, and precincts thereof, saving in the times of fairs there to be kept, and during the continuance of such fairs only. And in case any person or persons whatsoever, not being free citizens, shall hereafter use or exercise any part, trade, mystery or manual occupation or shall by himself, themselves or others, sell or expose to sale any manner of merchandize or wares whatsoever by retail, in any house, shop or place, or standing within the said cit)'-, or the liberties or precincts thereof, no fair being then kept in the said city, and shall persist therein, after warning to him or them given or left, by the appointment of the mayor of the said city, for the time being, at the place or places where such person or persons shall so use and exercise any art, trade, mystery or manual occupation, or shall sell or expose to sale any wares or merchandizes as aforesaid, by retail ; then it shall be lawful for the mayor of the said city, for the time being, to cause such shop windows to be shut, and also to impose such reasonable fine for such offence, not exceed- ing twenty shillings, for every respective offence ; and the same fines so imposed, to levy and take, by warrant under the common seal of the said city, for the time being, by distress and sale of the goods and chattels, of the person or persons so offending in the premises, found within the liberties and precincts of the said city, rendering to the parties the overplus, or by any other lawful ways or means whatsoever, to the only use of the said mayor, aldermen and com- monalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors, without any account to be rendered, made or done to his majesty, his heirs and successors or to his or their lieutenants^ governors, or commanders in chief for the same. Provided always, that no person or persons, shall be made free as aforesaid, but such as are his majesty's natural CHARTER. 103 born subjects, or such as shall be first naturalized by act of general assembly, or have obtamed letters of denization, under the hand of the lieutenant, or governor, or commander-in-chief for the tune being, and the seal of said province ; and that all persons to be made free^'as aforesaid, shall and do pay for the public use of the said mayor, aldermen and commonaUy of the said city, such sums of money', as such person or persons, so to be made free, shall re- spectively agree for, not exceeding the sum of three pounds twelve shillings, for the admission of each merchant or trader ; and the sum of six and thirty shillings, for the admission of each handicraft or tradesmen. And whereas, amongst other the rights, privileges, prehemmences and advantages, which the citizens and freemen of the said city of Albany, and their predecessors, have for many years last past held, used and enjoved, the privileges, preheminences, and advantages of having within their own wall, the sole management of the trade with all the Indians living within and to the eastward, northward and westward of the said county of Albany, within the compass of his said majesty's dominion here, which hath been from time to tune, confirmed to them, and their said predecessors, as well by prescrip- tion, as by divers and sundry grants, orders, confirmations and proclamations, granted, ordered, confirmed, and issued forth, not only by and from divers governors, and commanders in chief m the said province, since the same hath been under his said majesty s dominion, but also of several governors, generals, and commanders in chief of the Nether-Dutch nation, whilst the same was, or has been under their power and subjection, which has always been found by experience, to be of great advantage, not only to the said city in particular, but to the whole province in general; and that by the care, caution and inspection of the magistrates, of the said city, to the well and orderly management and keeping the trade with the Indians within their walls, it hath returned vastly to the advance- ment of trade and the increase of his majesty's revenue, and been the sole means, not only of preserving this province in peace and quiet, whilst the neighboring colonies were imbrued in blood and war ; but also of putting an end to the miseries those colonies labored under from the insulting cruelty of the Northern Indians. Whereas on the other hand, it has been no less evident, that whenever there has been any slackness or remissness in the regulation and keeping the Indian trade within the walls of the said city, occasioned by the incroachment of some persons trading with the Indians, m places remote, some clandestinely, others upon pretence of hunting passes, and the like, the trade not only of the said city, but of the whole province has apparently decreased, the king's revenue has been much impaired, and not only so, but this government has lost much of the I04 CHARTER. reputation and management amongst the Indians, which it other- wise had and enjoyed; wherefore, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, I have given, granted, ratified and confirmed, and by these presents, do give, grant, ratify and confirm unto the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors forever, the right, privilege, prehemi- nence and advantage of the sole and only management of the trade with the Indians, as well within this whole county, as without the same, to the eastward, northward and westward thereof, so far as his majesty's dominion here does or may extend, to be managed and transacted only by the freemen, being actual inhabitants within the said city and within the now walls or stockadoes thereof, and not elsewhere. And I do hereby, for his said majesty, his heirs and successors, absolutely forbid and prohibit all and every the inhabit- ants of the said province of New York, (the inhabitants of the said city of Albany, only excepted) to trade or traffic with any of the five nations of Indians, called the Senekas, Cayonges, Onnondages, Oneydes, and Maqueas, who live to the westward, or with any other Indian or Indians whatsoever, within the county of Albany, or to the eastward, northward or westward thereof, so far as his said majesty's dominions here, do or may extend, or to have or keep in their houses or elsewhere, any Indian goods or merchandize, upon the pain and penalty of the forfeiture and confiscation of such Indian commodities, whether the same be beavers, peltry or other Indian commodities, whatsoever, except Indian corn, venison, and dressed deer skins, to trade for, and upon pain and penalty of the forfeiture and confiscation of all such Indian goods and merchandizes, as guns, powder, lead, dufifels, rum and all other Indian goods and merchan- dize, which shall at any time hereafter be found, concealed, or kept in any house or place without the walls of the said city, and within the said county of Albany, and the other limits and boundaries herein before set forth and prescribed ; and in case any person or persons whatsoever shall at any time hereafter, out of the walls of the said city, and within the said county, or the other limits and boundaries herein before set forth and prescribed, trade or traffic with any Indian or Indians, for any beavers, peltry, or other Indian commodities, (except before excepted) or there shall conceal and keep any Indian goods, wares or merchandizes in any house or place as aforesaid ; then it shall and may be lawful for the mayor, recorder, or any of the aldermen for the time being, by warrant under their or any of their hands, to cause such Indian commodities, so traded for, and such goods or merchandizes so kept and concealed without the walls of the said city, wheresoever they shall be found within the said city or county, or without the same, within the limits and boundaries before expressed, to be seized, and the same to be con- CHARTER. 105 demned and confiscate, in the court of pleas, or common pleas in the said city, or any other court of record within the said city or province, one third part to the mayor of the said city for the time being, one third part to such person or persons as shall inform or sue for the same, and the other third part to the use of the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their suc- cessors forever. And also, that it shall and may be lawful to and for the mayor, recorder and aldermen of the said city for the time being, by a warrant under their or any of their hands and seals, to cause such person or persons, as shall presume to trade or traffic with the Indians contrary to the form and effect of these presents, to be apprehended wherever they shall be found, within the limits and boundaries herein before prescribed, to answer the same at the court of pleas and common pleas in the said city, or any other court of record within the said city or province, where being legally con- victed thereof, such person or persons, over and besides the for- feiture and confiscation of such goods, merchandizes and commodi- ties as aforesaid, shall be fineable, and fined in such sum or sums of money, (not exceeding twenty pounds, current money of this country) as at the discretion of such court, before whom he or they shall be prosecuted, shall be thought reasonable and convenient ; which said fines shall be one-third part to the person who shall inform and prosecute for the same, and the other two-thirds to the use of the mayor, aldermen and commonalty, and their successors forever. And further, I do by these presents, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, grant and declare to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of Albany, and their successors, that his majesty, his heirs and successors, nor any of his or their governors, lieutenants, commanders in chief, or other officers, shall not, or will not, from henceforth forever, hereafter, grant unto any person or persons whatsoever, any license or licenses, to hunt within the said county of Albany, or to the eastward, northward or west- ward, so far as his said majesty's dominions here, doth, or may ex- tend, without the consent and approbation of the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, for the time being, by the said person or persons first to be had and obtained. And further, I do, by these presents, for his said majesty, and his successors, grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city, that they and their successors be forever, persons able and capable, and shall have power to purchase, have, take and pos- sess in fee simple, lands, tenements, rents, and other possessions, within or without the same city, to them and their successors forever, so as the same exceed not the yearly value of one thousand pounds per annum, the statute of mortmain, or any other law to the con- I06 CHARTER. trary notwithstanding; and tlie same lands, tenements, heredita ments and premises, or any part thereof to demise, grant, lease, sei over, assign and dispose at their own will and pleasure, and to make, seal, and accomplish any deed or deeds, lease or leases, evidences or writings for or concerning the same or any part thereof, which shall happen to be made and granted by the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city for the time being. And further, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, I do, by these presents, grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty, that they and their successors shall and may for- ever hereafter, hold and keep within the said city, in every week in the year, two market days, the one upon Wednesday, and the other upon Saturday, weekly forever. And also, I do by these presents, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city, that they and their successors and assigns shall and may at any time or times hereafter, build a public weigh-house in such part of the said city, as to them shall seem con- venient ; and that they the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty shall and may receive, perceive, and take to their own proper use and behoof all and singular the issues and profits therefrom or thereby arising or accruing ; as also, that they the said mayor, alder- men and commonalty of the said city of Albany, their heirs and suc- cessors, shall and may at any time or times hereafter, when it to them shall seem fit and convenient, to take in, fill and make up, and lay out all and singular the ground and lands within the limits and precinct of the said city, and the same to build upon and make use of in other manner or way as to them shall seem fit, as far into the river that passeth by the same as low water mark aforesaid. And further, and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and suc- cessors, I do, by these presents, give and grant unto the aforesaid mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors, that they and their successors, shall and may have, hold and keep within the said city, liberties and precincts thereof, once every fortnight in every year forever, upon Tuesday, one court of common pleas for all actions of debt, trespass upon the case, detinue, ejectment, and other personal actions, and the same to be held, before the mayor, recorder and aldermen, or any three of them, (whereof the mayor or recorder to be one,) who shall have power to hear and determine the same pleas and actions, accordingly to the rules of common law, acts of the general assembly of the said province, and the course of other corporations in the like nature. And further, for and on the behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, I do, by these presents, give and grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and CHARTER. 107 their successors forever, that the mayor of the said city for the time being, shall and may determine all and all manner of actions, or causes whatsoever, to be had, moved or depending between party and party, so always as the same exceed not the value of forty shillings, current money of this province. And further, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, I do grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said' city, and their successors forever, that the mayor, recorder and aldermen of the said city shall always be, so long as they shall continue in their said respective offices justices of the peace for the said county, and as such shall and may sit in the courts of sessions, or county courts, and courts of oyer and terminer, that shall from time to time be held and kept within the said county ; and that the mayor, recorder, or some one of the aldermen of the said city for the time being, shall and may always preside in or be president of such county courts, or courts of sessions, to be held within the said county, as aforesaid, and that the sheriff of the said city for the time being, shall always be sheriff of the said county ; also that the town clerk of the said city for the time being, shall always be the clerk of the peace, and clerk of the court of sessions, or county courts for the said county. And further, I do, for and on behalf of his said majesty, his heirs and successors, by these presents grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Albany, and their successors, that the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city, and their successors, shall have and enjoy all the privileges, franchises, and powers that they have and use, or that any of their predecessors, at any time within the space of twenty years last past, had, took, or enjoyed, or ought to have had, by reason, or under pretence of any further charter, grant, prescription, or any other right, custom or usage, although the same have been forfeit or lost,^ or hath been ill used, or not used, or abused, or discontinued, albeit they be not particularly mentioned herein; and no officer shall disturb them therein, under any pretence whatsoever, not only for their future, but their present enjoyment thereof, provided always, that the said privileges, franchises and powers be not inconsistent with, or re- pugnant to the laws of his majesty's kingdom of England, or other the laws of the General Assembly as aforesaid, and saving to his majesty, his heirs, successors and assigns, and his commanders in chief, lieutenants, governors and other officers under him or theirj in his Fort Albany, in or by the city of Albany, and in all the liberties, boundaries, extents and privileges thereof, for the mani- tenance of the said fort and garrison there, all the right, use, title and authority, which his said majesty, or any of his said command- ers-in-chief, lieutenants, and other officers have had, used or exer- I08 , CHARTER. cised there, (excepting the said pasture herein before granted, or mentioned to be granted, to the said mayor, aldermen and common- alty of the city of Albany, aforesaid,) and saving to all other persons, bodies politic and corporate, their heirs successors and assigns, all such right, title and claim, possessions, rents, services, commons, emoluments and interest, of in and to any thing that is theirs, save only the franchises aforesaid, in as ample manner as if this charter had not been made. And further, I do appoint and declare, that the incorporation to be founded by this charter shall not at any time hereafter do or suffer to be done, anything by which the lands, tenements or hereditaments, stock, goods, or chattels thereof, or in the hands, custody or possession of any of the citizens of the said city, such as have been set, let, given, granted, or collected, to and for pious and charitable uses, shall be wasted or misemployed, contrary to the trust or intent of the founder or giver thereof. And that such, and no other constructions shall be made hereof, than that which may tend most to advance religion, justice and the public good, and to suppress all acts and contrivances to be invented or put in use con- trary thereunto. In witness whereof, I have to these presents set my hand, and thereto have affixed the seal of the said province, and caused the same to be enrolled in the secretary's office of the said province this two and twentieth day of July, in the second year of his said majesty's reign, and in the year of our Lord, one thousand six hundred and eighty and six. THOMAS DONGAN. No. 1. Jvjily 22, 1686 — Oct. 13. 1694 No. I. PIETER SCHUYLER. Date of office: July 22, 1686-October 13, 1694. Appointed by: Governor Thomas Dongan. Date of birth: September 17, 1657. Place of birth: Rensselaerswyck. Parents: Philip Pieterse (S.) and Margaret Van Slechtenhorst. Education: Common school. Married to: (a) Engeltie Van Schaick (d. 1689). (b) Maria Van Rensselaer. Date: (a) Rensselaerswyck, 1681. (b) Rensselaerswyck, September 14, 1691. Children: (8-4 s. 4 d.) Margarita (b. 1682, m. Robert Livingston, Jun., i2th Mayor), Philip (1684, d. y.), Anna (1686. d. aet. 12 years), Gertruj (1689, d. y.). (b) Gertruj (b. 1694, m. Johannes Lansing), Philip (b. 1696, m. Margarita Schuyler), Pieter (b. 1698, m. Catherine Groesbeck), Jeremiah (b. 1698, twin, m. Susanna ). Residence: East side Market street (Broadway) south of Yonkers street (State) to river; also "The Flatts." Occupation: Political offices and militia. Merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: February 19, 1724. Place of death: The Flatts (West Troy— Water vliet). Place of burial: Li Dutch Church, on February 22d. Title: Colonel. Remarks: Courageous and good organizer. Major and Colonel of militia in King William's war. Member of the Provincial Assembly. Indian Commissioner. Ex-officio Vice-Governor. Appointed Lieutenant of cavalry by Governor Dongan, March, 1685. Appointed Judge, Court of Oyer and Terminer, by Dongan, April, 1685. Justice of the Peace, October, 1685. He was the " Ouidor " of the Indians, much trusted by them, and, accompanied by Col. Nicholson, escorted five Mohawk sachems to the court of Queen Anne, sailing December, 1709, returning May 8, 1710. I. PIETER SCHUYLER. I 686- I 694. From a photograph made by Col. Augustus Pruyn of Albany, from the oil painting owned in 1886 by John C. Schuyler of Watervliet and in 1904 owned by his children at The Flatts. Painted at London, 1710, by order of Queen Anne. No. I. PIETER SCHUYLER. HI 1686. 1686. Albany becomes a city, being granted a charter by Colonel Thomas Dongan, Governor-General of the Province of New York under authority of King James II., of England, July 22. " Pieter Schuyler, gent, and Robt. Livingston, gent., who were com- missionated by ye towne of Albanie to goe to New Yorke and procure ye Charter for this citty wh was agreed upon between ye magistrates and ye right honl Col. Tho. Dongan, Gov. Genii.," having brought the same along with them, it is " pub- lished' with alfye joy and acclamation imaginable; and ye said two gent'm received'ye thanks of ye magistrates and burgesses for their diligence and care in obtaining ye same," July 22. Pieter Schuyler is " appointed and commissionated to be Mayor and Clerk of ye market and Coroner of ye citty of Albany as also Coroner for ye sd county," and takes the oath of office of Mayor as administered by one of the justices of the peace for the county of Albany, the ordained aldermen also being sworn in, as were Robert Livingston as town-clerk and Richard Pretty as sheriff and James Parker as marshal, July 22. Municipal officers enumerated by the charter include: Mayor, re- corder, chamberlain or treasurer, six aldermen, six assistant aldermen, town-clerk, sherifif, coroner, clerk of market, high constable, three sub-constables and a marshal or sergeant- at-mace, J^^^ ^^■ Charter, Common Council: Dirck Wesselse (tenBroeck), Johannis Wendell, I. Jan Jansen Bleecker, Levinus van Schaick, 11. David Schuyler, Adrian Gerritse, III. July 22. Governor Dongan names the first civic officers: Mayor, Pieter Schuyler; Recorder, Isaac Swinton ; Town-clerk, Robert Liv- ingston; Chamberlain, Jan Becker; Sheriff, Richard Pretty; Marshal, James Parker; Aldermen. Dirck Wesselse (Ten Broeck) , Jan lansen Bleecker, David Schuyler. Johannes Wen- dell, Adrian Geritse, Levinus Van Schaick; Assistant Alder- men, Joachim Staats, John Lansingh, Isaac Verplanck. Law- rence van Ale, Albert Rvckman, Melgert Wynantse, July 22. Boundaries of the City of Albany as set forth in the Dongan Charter : " On the east by Hudson's River, so f arr as low water mark; * * * the south, by a line * * * drawne from the southermost end of the Pasture at the north end of * * * 112 PIETER SCHUYLER. No. I. 1686. Martin Garetson's Island, runneing' back into the woods sixteen English miles due Northwest to a certain kill or creek called the Sand-kill ; on the North * * * by a line * * * drawne from the post that was sett by Governor Stuyvesant near Hudsons river, runneing likewise Northwest sixteen English miles ; and on the west by a straight line * * * drawne from the points of the said South and North lines," July 22. Court of Common Pleas established in Albany county by Charter, July 22. Water furnished the city through long logs bored with a two-inch hole, from a pond created at the head of Yonkers (State) street by a dam, and called the " Fountain," whence it is distributed to a city well in each of the three wards, August. Island south of the city boundary known as Martin Gerritsen's Island at this time ; but later becomes Van Rensselaer Island, August. Mayor Pieter Schuyler and Common Council hold first session, among the minutes recorded appearing the following trans- action : "The court of (the) mayor and aldermen having considered ye case of ye negroe of Myndert Frederikse called Hercules, who hath stole a chest of wampum belonging to ye poor of ye Lutheran parich out of ye house of his master, where he went in at night throw ye window, all which he con- fesseth. and considering how evil consequence it is and how bad example it is for ye negers, the court have ordered ye sd neger Hercules to be whipt throw ye towne att ye cart tale by ye hands of ye hangman forthwith, for an example to oyrs. and his master to pay ye costs," Common Council, looking to a quoruni and prompt attendance, orders that any member that shall " be absent at ye second ring- ing of ye bell, being in town, at any common council day," should forfeit six shillings (toties quoties), Sept. 11. Common Council orders High Constable Isaac Verplanck to replace the " rotted spouts " that convey water from " ye fountain from ye hill into ye city," * * * " in ye space of a fortnight " or forfeit 40 shillings, Sept. 14. To defray expense of securing the Dongan charter, the Common Council orders sale of " some lotts of grounds upon ye Plain lying on ye south side of ye citty for gardens, as also ye land lying on both sides of Ruttenkill for two pastures," Oct. 26. Common Council appoints Dirck Wesselse and Robert Livingston to go " with two other fitt persons " to inspect the "tract of land above Schinnechtady. upon ye Maquaas river " for purpose of purchase from the Mohawk Indians, Oct. 26. ALBANY'S FIRST SEAL. This is the design of the first seal that was officially employed by the mayor when authorizing important documents. In 1752 it was superseded by one showing a beaver and date. No. I. PIETER SCHUYLER. II3 1686-1687. Ordinance prohibiting people from watering- horses from the pail hanging at any city well or fountain, November. Ordinance prohibiting cartmen to " fetch or digg any sand on ye north side of ye Schennechtady path," because so much had already been removed at the old burying-ground as to expose coffins to view, November. Law to compel strangers to add their names to the mayor's list within 40 days, or the constable to be fined 20 shillings, November. All tavern-keepers required to give constable knowledge of name of any guest who shall lodge therein two days, and explain the business of such person in the city, November. Carmen to " repair the breaches in the streets and highways " gratis, and no negro or slave to " drive any carte within this citty under the penaltye of Twenty shillings to be paid by the owner," November. Van Rensselaer family releases all title to vacant lands within cor- porate limits of new city as fixed by charter, portions of which land are sold " att a publike vendu or outcry in ye Citty Hall," Dec. I. Seal of the city in use (as found two hundred years later on docu- ments) and affixed to deeds, December. 1687. John Caspers commits the first murder in the city of Albany, killing a negro girl. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, son of the second Patroon, Johannes Van Rensselaer (who never came to America) having settled at Albany and married his cousin, Anna (daughter of Jeremiah Van Rensselaer) dies, without children, Feb. 22. Governor Dongan seeks to prevent the French-Canadian priests from drawing the Indians away from Albany to Canada, whither seven hundred had been led from Albany, to the pre- judice of the government, by procuring " a peace of Land called Sarachtague lying upon Hudsons river about forty miles above Albany," February. Ordered by the Common Council " that there be a pounde made upon ye plain for ye use of this citty * ''^ * to put all horses, cattle, hoggs and sheep therein," April 11. 114 PIETER SCHUYLER. No. I. 1687-1688. Common Council orders " yt ye sergeants of ye respective com- panies goe about to raise a half years sellary for ye ratel watch," June 14. On information that the French make preparations to exterminate the Five Nations, the governor orders the mayor to bring the wives, old men and children of the Mohawks down into Albany for the winter, September. Gov. Dongan helps defense of Albany by ordering " Every tenth man of all ye Militia troupes & Companys within the Province Except those who were out ye last yeare a whaling be Drawn out to go up thither," September. Gov. Dongan arrives at Albany to take charge of troops, October. Charter election, Common Council : Hendrick Cuyler, Johannis Wendell. I. Levinus van Schaick, Jan Jansen Bleecker, II. David Schuyler, Albert Ryckman, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in^ Oct. 14. First deed of land, executed to Godfriedus Dellius, Nov. i. Beaver-skins annually exported reduced in number from 40,000 to 9,000. 1688. Birth, in Ireland, of Cadwallader Golden, celebrated as physician, botanist, astronomer, historian, and who becomes later on the Governor of New York province, Feb. 17. Gov. Dongan writes to Earl of Sutherland from Albany, he being president of his majesty's privy council. " I have been here all this winter with four hundred foote and fifty horse and Eight Hundred Indians;" speaks of heavy expense, and fears " when I come to N. Yorke to impose another Tax upon ye people " they will depart for other plantations, Feb. 19. Governor Dongan returns from Albany to New York, March. Governor Dongan recalled by King James II., April 22. The expenses of troops, care of some French prisoners and gifts to the Indiana as paid by Robert Livingston, amount to about $10,335, of which Albany is assessed for $1,200, from Aug. II, 1687, to June I. Catalyn Trico (born in Paris in 1605) testifies to having been in Albany in 1623 and the first white woman there. Sir Edmond Andros, sent by King James II., to be Governor of the Province of New York, arrives at New York city, and begins at once his administration as successor of Governor Dongan, Aug. II. ^O- I- PIETER SCHUYLER. 115 1688. Ex-Governor Thomas Dongan refuses the offer of King James to make him a major-general, and he retires to his country-seat on Long Island, August. Gov. Andros proceeds to Albany that he may hold a conference with the Indians in order to draw them into closer relationship with England and alienate them from the French, and the sachems of the Five Nations hasten also to Albany to bid Gov. Andros welcome, whereupon at their council he is addressed by the Mohawk chief, Sindachsegie, saying: " We resolved not to come slowly ; but to run with all speed to see and bid you welcome," Sept. 18. Gov. Andros writes to Denonville that he must release the English and Indian prisoners taken in the 1687 expedition against the Senecas, and placing Capt. Jervis Baxter in command of Fort Albany, returns towards the end of the month to New York, September. Francis Nicholson begins his administration of the Province of New York, in the absence of Gov. Andros, under the title of lieuten- ant-governor, Oct Q Charter election, Common Council : Johannis Wendell, Levinus van Schaick, II. Jan Jansen Bleecker, Jan Lansingh, II. Albert Ryckman, David Schuyler, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. On news of William, Prince of Orange, son-in-law of James II., accepting invitation of the English people to come there to take possession of the throne and his arrival in accordance in Eng- land with an army of 15,000 men, (King James II. fleeing to France for protection) Gov. Andros of the Province of New York happen'^ to be in Maine, and on his return to Boston he is arrested, later to be sent to England, November. Inhabitants complaining that bakers sell bread at " dear rates," it is ordered that they " take no more than one penny, half penny or five stuyvers zewant for a loaf of fine white bread," December. Law passed fining anyone who shall cut down any part of the stockade ten shillings, December. On complaint that people use the town ladders, so that few are found in time of fire, " ye fyremasters " are required to see " yt in some convenient place of each ward," there be " at least 2 good ladders of 25 foot, and 2 of 15 foot with iron hooks fast to ye ladders and 2 fyrehooks," making 12 ladders and 6 hooks in each of the three wards, December. Il6 PIETER SCHUVLER. No. I. 1689. 1689. Population of Albany county 2,016; consisting of 662 men, 340 women, 1,014 children, January. Chevalier Hector cle Callieres Bonnevue, the Governor of Mon- treal, planning for the French occupation of the Province of New York, writes to Marquis de Seignelay : " The plan is to go directly to Orange (Albany), the most advanced town of New . York, one hundred leagues from Montreal (230 miles) which I would undertake to get possession of and to proceed thence to seize Manathe (New York city) the capital of that colony situated on the seacoast ; on condition of being furnished with supplies necessary for the success of the expedition. * * * j hope to seize in passing some English villages and settlements where I shall find provisions and the conveniences for attacking the town of Orange. This town is about as large as Montreal, surrounded by pickets, at one end of which is a fort of earth de- fended by palisades, and has four bastians. There is a garrison of one hundred and fifty men of three companies in the fort and some pieces of cannon. The town of Orange may contain about one hundred and fifty houses and three hundred inhab- itants capable of bearing arms, the majority of whom are Dutch, besides a number of French refugees and some English people," January. Anthony Lespinard appointed by the Mayor viewer of corn, Jan. 15. Mayor Pieter Schuyler writes to Lieut. -Gov. Nicholson that the Indians are very jealous and suspicious of the news and pro- ceedings, and there would be grave cause of mischief if these suspicions were not relieved ; to which the latter replies that the report of serious trouble over the crown and religious matters in England was utterly false, and he should assure them of the friendship of the English by presenting each Nation with a barrel of powder The people of Albany, in ignorance of the fomenting revolution in England and the purpose of the French king, feel great uneasiness. January. Gov. Nicholson instructed by the Crown to employ at Albany only British-educated school-teachers, Jan. 31. Hendrick Van Rensselaer, who built Fort Crailo (supposedly about 1642) at Greenbush, marries Catrina Van Brugh, the grand- daughter of Anneke Jans, owner of the Trinity Church property in New Amsterdam (New York city), March 8. No. I. PIETER SCHUYLER. II7 1689. News of the French declaring war against England causes Lieut. - Gov. Nicholson to guard Fort James at New York with militia under Col. Nicholas Bayard, April 27. Instructions sent to the officials of Albany " recommending them to keep the people in peace," and the militia " well exercised and equipped," April 30. Capt. Jonathan Bull of Connecticut arrives at Albany to make a league witii the Five Nations, and Mayor Pieter Schuyler ex- presses belief that if the citizens heard the news of the day (regarding the proposed attack by the French from the north and the trouble between France and England), " it wolde make them run all madd," May 18. Leader of the Maquaas Indians renews peace covenant, saying to Captain Bull : " Breatheren, we are now com as our grand- fathers used to doe, to renew our unity & friendship and couenant made between us & you. We desier yt this house being the couenant & proposition house (the City Hall), may be kept clean, yt is, yt we may keep a clean, single, not a double heart. We do renue the former couenant or chain yt has been made betw een us & you, yt is to say. New England, Vergenia, Mereland, & all these parts of America, yt it may be kept bright on eauery side, yt it may not rust nor be for- got," May 24. The citizen-soldiery working on the fort, having awaited official notice of a change in the home government, sent word to Lieut. - Gov. Nicholson by letter despatched by messenger, that they intend to hold the " fort for the Power that now governeth in England," and refusing to obey the Council or the colonel of the regiment, demand the keys of the fort and Nicholson has not the courage to refuse. May 31. On Jacob Leisler's turn to watch at the fort with his company, (Fort James, New York city), he enters with 49 men and resolves to hold it until joined by all the militia, and at once the five captains and about 400 soldiers place themselves under his command, June 2. Jacob Leisler, a captain of militia of the Province of New York, issues a proclamation that he has assumed control of the ad- ministration in the province, taking advantage of the uncertainty as to the ultimate result of who shall be the English sovereign, and states that he will preserve the Protestant religion, holding the position until the arrival of a governor appointed by Wil- liam, Prince of Orange, Jtuie 3. Il8 PIETER SCHUYLER. No. I. 1689. Citizens choose a committee of safety who commission Jacob Leisler " Captain of the Fort," at New Amsterdam, and prepare an address to the king pledging loyalty, June. News of the accession of Prince William and Princess Mary to England's throne, brought by riders from Fort James (at New York) occasions great and manifested joy in Albany, as de- scribed in records of the time, as follows : " The Proclamation for Proclaiming there Majs King William and Queen Mary King and Queen of England, France, and Ireland &c., being brought hither from N. Yorke Imediately upon ye Receit thereof ye Mayr & Recorder caused ye Court of Aldermen and Common Council to assemble who attended accordingly and having considered of ye greatest Solemnity yt could be used in so short a Time, appointed ye Citizens to be in arms about 2 o'clock which having done they went in ordr from ye City Hall up to there Majts Fort where there Majts were proclaimed in solemn manner in English and Dutch, ye gunns fyreing from ye fort & volley of small arms, ye People with Loude acclama- tions crying God Save King Wm. & Queen Mary, afterwards they marched doune to ye City hall where there Majts were again Proclaimed, ye night Concluding wth ye Ringing of ye Bell, Bonefyres, fyreworks, and all oyr Demonstrations of joy, ^ July I. Louis XIV., of France, instructs Louis de Buade, Comte de Fron- tenac, to proceed to Canada and to carry out the plans of Chevalier de Callieres regarding descent on Albany from Montreal, June 7. Inhabitants of Albany unwilling to acknowledge Jacob Leisler's assumption of government of Province of New York, the mun- icipal officers, justices of peace and military officers assemble in convention and resolve : " All public affairs for the preservation of their majesties' interests " should be managed by the mayor, aldermen, justices and other commissioners of city and county until the orders of King William and Queen Mary are re- ceived, Aug. I. Because of fear of a French invasion, proclamation is issued that no person able to bear arms (except masters of vessels) be allowed to go away without a written permit from a justice of peace, August. At convention in City Hall it is resolved that Captain Leisler at New York be requested to send speedily one hundred men and munitions to protect Albany, Sept. 4. Messenger returns from Capt. Leisler and reports to convention that he disclaims any civil power and had sent a letter to No. I. PIETER SCHUYLER. 119 1689. Captains Johannes Wendell and Jan Jansen Bleecker, informing them that he had sent four small guns and two hundred pounds of powder, and he wished Albany to send two persons to represent the city in government, Sept. 7. Charter election Common Council : Johannis Wendell, Levinus van Schaick, I. Claes Ripse van Dam, Jan Jansen Bleecker, II. David Schuyler, Albert Ryckman, III. Election, Sept. 29; Oct i^ sworn m, ^ '•■ '+' Lieut. Sharpe and soldiers in the fort take oath of allegiance to Kmg William and Queen IMary, Oct. 19. Inhabitants of Albany learning that Capt. Jacob Leisler had been declared commander-in-chief of the Province of New York by his followers and that he was sending a company to possess the fort at Albany, thereupon reassemble in convention, and resolve to keep command of the fort for their majesties, Wil- liam and Mary, Oct. 26. The messenger sent to New Amsterdam (New York city) to learn what is to be done regarding the control of the government of the province, returns and reports that Capt. Leisler demands the surrender of the city of Albany's Charter to him, October. Alderman Van Schaick having been in New York describes what he saw and learned there, that Jacob Leisler had asserted him- self commander-in-chief, of the Province of New York and had control of that city as a start and desired to gain the same unconditional control of Albany, whereupon the bell m the cupola of the City Hall, at the northeast corner of So. Market street (Broadwav) and Hudson avenue, is rung and imme- diatelv an assembly is held there by the city fathers, the con- vention determining that Mayor Pieter Schuyler be placed in command of the fort, with Lieut. Sharpe as his subordinate officer, whereupon the members of the Council wait upon the Mayor and escort him to the fort, which is delivered to 1 . -^ Nov. 8. him, TVT-1U Three sloops reach Albany, bearing troops under Jacob Milborne, and immediately Captains Wendell and Bleecker, Johannes Cuyler and Reynier Barents go aboard to learn the object of his visit. Jacob Milborne asks : " Is the fort open to receive me and my men?" The reply is, " No. the Mayor is in command and win hold it." He is disappointed by the resistance and be- ing invited to the City Hall to call upon the convention, he accepts the offer and inflames the people by a long discourse, stating that those things done under the unlawful King James II (such as the charter) are void, and that the people should choose new civil and military officers. To this Dirck Wesselse I20 PIETER SCHUYLER. No. 1. 1689. Ten Broeck replies that the inhabitants will do nothing differ- ent until hearing from their majesties, and that Milborne had no power to order a change of affairs at Albany, Nov. 9. Milborne marches his soldiers into the city from Martin Gerritsen's island, where they had bivouacked, Nov. 13. Milborne marches his men from Martin Gerritsen's island to posi- tion before the fort at the head of the hill and demands that the gate be opened, to which Mayor Pieter Schuyler replies that he keeps the fort for William and Mary, and therefore commands him to depart with his seditious company. Milborne secures one foot within the portal but is mightily thrust back, and the gate closed. Thereupon he withdraws a space that his men may with safety load. On his second approach a protest is read from the bastian. A band of Mohawk Indians encamped a short distance to the north (site of Academy park) fearing danger is intended to their friends, declare intention to fire upon Alilborne's army unless he departs. Pieter Schuyler at once sends Rev. Dr. Dellius to pacify them, but is told that if Milborne does not leave the place and intends to pitch battle with the Albanians, the Mohawks will do their best to annihilate them. When Milborne hears this he marches his men to the three sloops, leaving a company under command of Joachim Staats, a brother of Dr. Samuel Staats, a Leisler sympathiser, and sets sail for New York, Nov. 15. Captain Bull arrives with his company of 87 men from Connecticut, is rousingly received, and camps in the city, Nov. 25. Lieut. Talmadge takes 24 of Capt. Bull's 87 Connecticut men to reinforce the garrison at Schenectady, against attack by French, Nov. 29. Jacob Leisler, having possession of the fort at Manhattan, writes to the Council at Albany saying (feignedly) that he had re- ceived orders from " King William for taking care of the Government," and by that authority he commissions Capt. Joachim Staats to take over into his charge and possession Fort Orange, and " doe hereby Order that free Elections be forthwith made for a Mayor and Aldermen whom I have Signified to Capt. Staats," Dec. 28. Report made pursuant to order of Gov. Fletcher, shows in Albany county 662 men, 340 women, 1,014 children, total 2,016, Dec. 31. Indians in Albany county at this time, previous to the conflict, number 270 Mohawks, 180 Oneidas, 500 Onondagas, 300 Cay- ugas, 1,300 Senecas, 250 River Indians, total 2,800, Dec. 31. C rt C C i; rt dj p en 1- '^ nj 4J -^ -i^ ^ -C rt *^ X bD ^ i flj <-> C a C rt c W XI ^ V- -- o td fe< ^ -§ .S2 Q < CO cn ^ ^ CO -< ^ — -^ It In Bui and > x -^-' ." Q < ^ U .2 H S "^ U U4 1-1 . c cf ON - 2 CM \o (r> ■Ji >" - ci ffi o 00 : u CO soned Schenectady ses the night of Fe Six of these (Nos. 'C ^ dj '^ o j; O '^ -S ^ rt ^ c •£ •^ .5? u c C en C 'Z, nS -t- ■- ^ •-" en o < O en V _ cx o tr m ^ o +-. 4-« ( o • t-l u °, ^ ^ '^ c o J^ O. w -7^ ct; p^ Pi c w o ^ - o en •p bo W o _o 3 o pq C/3 ^ ^ m o ■ .: "'^''^-j^xis?^ 7. JAN JANSEN BLEECKER. I 700-1 701. From what is believed to be a life-size oil-painting of him, owned in 1906 by Mrs. James B. Speyers, nee Katharine Van Vechten Miller, of New York city. No. 7- JAN JANSEN BLEECKER. I57 1 700- 1701. ( Continued from Xo. 6. ) 1700. Jan Jansen Bleecker sworn as the Mayor of Albany, having l)een commissioned by Sir Richard Coote, Earl of Bellomont, the Governor of the Province of Xew York. Albany count}- furnishes y]\ militiamen of the 3,182 in the militia of the Province of New York. Col. Pieter Schuyler in command of the militia of Albany county, with Uirck Wesselse Ten Broeck the major. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer the captain of the troop of horse. Beaver-skins numbering- 15,241 exported in 1700. Gov. Coote, in his letter to the Board of Trade, describes the condi- tion of the soldiers at Albany as follows : " I had the two Companies at Albany, vizt. Major Ingoldesby's and Capt. Weeme's muster'd before me there. * * * I never in my life saw so moving a sight as that of the Companies at Albany, half the men were without breeches, shoes, and stockins when they muster'd. I thought it shameful to the last degree to see English soldiers so abus'd. They had like to have mutinied. * •:• * J .^^g jj.^ great hopes your Lordships would have directed me to fall immediately upon fortifying at Albany and Schenectady ; these forts are not only scandalously weak, but do us unspeakable mischief with our Indians, who conceive a proportionable idea of the Kings power & greatness. The in- habitants came all about me at my leaving Albany and told me in plain terms that if the King would not build a Fort there to protect 'em they would on the very first news of a war be- tween England and France desert that place and fly to New York rather than they would stay tliere to have their throats cut. '' * * There are half a dozen at Albany who have competent estates, but all the rest are miserable poor." Oct. 17. Retailing of liquor prohibited, unless by Mayor's license, imder penalty of $25, and absolutely no selling of same to soldiers after the 8 o'clock bell at night, Nov. 15. Assessment of 1,200 f and ^"j "loadwood "' levied for "ye Rattle- watch," Dec. 30. 1701. Beaver-skins, formerly bringing 14 shillings per pound at London, now selling for only five shillings. 158 JAN JANSEN BLEECKER. No. 7. 1701. Sir Richard Coote, Earl of Bellomont, the Governor of the Prov- ince of New York, dies suddenly, and having heeded those who had been jealous of ex-Mayor Pieter Schuyler it prevents the carrying out of his plans to lower Schuyler's powerful influence among the Indians and might have soon made him a man of less importance, March 5. Pieter Schuyler. William Smith and Abraham De Peyster made councilors to act as administrators, Lieut. -Gov. John Nanfan being absent in the West Indies, jNIarch 5. The council appointed on the 5th administers the affairs of the Province of New York until the return of John Nanfan from Barbadoes, and who assumes control on his arrival at New York, Alay 19. Governor John Nanfan directs Johannes Bleecker, Jun., and David Schuyler (son of David Pieterse Schuyler) to go to Onondaga and there notify the Five Nations of his desire for a conference at Albany, as well as to observe with the skill he knows they possess what influence the French have among those Indians, and they set out, June 2. Johannes Bleecker, Jun., and David Schuyler arrive at Onondaga, the council place of the Indians, June 10. Johannes Bleecker, Jun., and David Schuyler attend the meeting held by the Onondaga and Seneca sachems, and perceive that the Protestant wampum belt sent to them by the Earl of Bello- mont, when Governor of New York Province, is hanging beside the Catholic belt sent by Callieres of Canada, in the Indian council-house, showing that the sachems had not yet decided whether to be the allies of the French of Canada or of the English colonies, and Dekanissora, the mourning hermit, told in an eloquent discourse how Callieres had been kind to him at the last audience granted at Montreal, kissing him with all appearances of deep affection on both cheeks, ordering his portrait painted, had dined him sumptuously at his own table with the white people, had presented him with a double- barrelled gun. with a laced coat and hat, a magnificent shirt and an abundance of tobacco, and upon his departure for the home of the tribes had ordered three Frenchmen not to allow him to do any of the rowing of his bark canoe from Montreal to Fort Frontenac, June 14. A messenger announces at the council of sacheius that AI. Marin- cour was approaching, being then but eight miles distant, come from Canada to announce that the King of Spain was dead, that the Governor of Canada desired the sachems of the tribes INDIAN TREATY. Albany was the scene of treaty-making with Indian sachems time and again. Colonists came here even from Maryland for the purpose. The Dutch had the advantage in that for trivial gifts they made the Indians allies. (Copyright by C. Y. Turner.) No./. JAN JANSEN BLEECKER. 1 59 1701. to come into his presence, as he wished to make it clear that the French and not the colonists were their most able friends, more willing to help them fight battles with hostile Indians, and he desired some squaws sent to fetch his luggage into their camp, June i8. The council of the sachems having been in session for a week, the time drew near when it was necessary to determine among the chiefs which religious belt, the Catholic of the French implying Canada's aid, or the Protestant belt, signifying alliance with the English colonists, should be chosen, accordingly Dekanis- sora sought Bleecker and Schuyler privately for their advice. The Indian stated there was a vast difference of opinion among the tribes, as some would agree to have a priest on one side of the castle and a minister on the other. The Albany dele- gates said this would cause confusion, and above all they should not cringe to the French ; but to this the chief answered : " We fear the French will make war on us, and we shall then fade away like the Mohawks. You may promise assistance, but what does that avail, so long as you do not give it?" The same night the old chief called at the tent of the Albanians again, and said no decision had been reached and he had him- self been so troubled about the matter that for two nights he had not slept, anxious to advise his tribe aright, June 21. At the council meeting of the tribes at Onondaga, with envoys from Canada and Albany present, Dekanissora states the situation as follows : " We are desired by both parties to become Christians, and we see the belts hanging before us. You make us mad, and we know not which side to choose. But I will now say no more about it, and take the belts down and keep them, because you are both dear with your goods. We are sorry we cannot pray, but we have come to this conclusion, we will take a priest or minister of the party who sells his goods the cheapest. Our sachems meantime are going, some to Albany, others to Montreal, and we will think about it until winter. We have a suspicion that there will soon be another war between your nations, but we tell you both that we shall keep the peace," June 22. The sachems of the Five Nations divide, a set proceeding to Canada with the idea that by telling Callieres what the New York colonists will do he will be forced to make them presents of great value and order goods sold cheaply to them, while other sachems arrive at Albany to strike a bargain with Governor Nanfan, July i. l6o JAN JANSEN BLEECKER. No. J. 1701. It is reported that Callieres when visited by the sachems from Onondag-a in an endeavor to gain their tribes as French allies, gives back the Iroquois prisoners held in Canada, July 15. Gov. Nanfan's conference with the sachems from Onondaga held at Albany for more than a week, results in a deed from the Indians to King William III, of the hunting-grounds situate between Lakes Ontario, Erie and Huron, which these Indians had taken sixty years previous from the Hurons, July 19. Charter election, Common Council : Johannis Schuyler, David Schuyler, I. Johannis Roseboom, Johannis Cuyler, II. Wes- selse tenBroeck, Johannis Abeel, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, second Lord of the Manor, or the fourth Patroon, marries his cousin, Maria, the daughter of Stephanus Van Cortland t, Oct. 15. Johannes Bleecker, Jun., commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Lieut.-Gov. John Nanfan, (See No. 8.) No. 6. , 1701 . 1702. No. 8. JOHANNES BLEECKER, JUN. Date of office: 1 701-1702. Appointed by: Lieutenant-Governor John Nanfan. Date of birth: May 2, 1668. Parents: Jan Jansen (B.), 7th Mayor, and Margariet Rutse Jacob- sen \"an Schoenderwoert. Education: Common school. Married to: Anna Costar. Date: October 29, 1693. Children: (9-6 s. 3 d.) Johannes (1694), Geertruy (1696, m. Abraham Wendell), Hendrik (1699). Nicholas (b. 1702, m. Margarita Roseboom), Hendrik (1706), Margarita (1709. m. Gerrit Marselis), Anna (1712), Jacob (1715), Anthony (1718). Residence: Northwest corner North Pearl street and Maiden lane (to Chapel street). Occupation: Interpreter to Indians. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: December 20, 1738. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: Dutch Church, on December 23. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Carried captive to Canada 1686; returned 1687. Recorder, 1700. Member of General Assembly, 1 701-2. Indian interpreter. No. 8. JOHANNES BLEECKER, JUN. 163 1701-1702. (Continued from No. 7.) 1701. Johannes Bleecker, Jun., is sworn as the Mayor of Albany, to succeed Jan Jansen Bleecker, having been commissioned by Lieut. -Governor John Nanfan^ John Collins, lieutenant of Captain Henry Holland's English gar- rison at Albany, marries Mrs. Margaret Verplanck, widow of Jacobus Verplanck and the daughter of Philip Schuyler, Nov. 2. 1702. Col. Wolfgang William Romer plans Fort Anne and has four hun- dred loads of stone and one hundred tons of cement drawn for its construction, April. Edward Hyde (Viscount Cornbury) succeeds Lt.-Gov. Nanfan in administration of Province of New York, as governor, May 3. Garrison, consisting of 176 soldiers, commanded by Maj. Ingoldsby, June. Colonel Romer goes on a journey to Boston, June. Queen Anne (born at London Feb. 6, 1665, daughter of James H. and Anne Hyde) proclaimed queen of England, J"iie 17. Governor Hyde visits Albany and finds the soldiers eight weeks in arrears of subsistence and clothed so they barely had " where- withal to cover their nakedness/' July 5. In continued absence of Col. Romer, Gov. Hyde tired of waiting,, changes the design of Fort Anne and lays the first stone of the fort. Aug. 15. Colonel Romer returns from Boston, Aug. 19. The four hundred loads of stone entirely used in haste of construc- tion, fearing an attack by the French from the west of city, Aug. 26. Gov. Hyde writes to the Lords of Trade respecting the condition of the fort at Albany : " The fort is in a miserable condition. It is a stockadoed fort about one hundred and twenty feet long and seventy foot wide, the stockadoes are almost all roten to that degree that I can with ease push them down. There is but three and twenty guns in the fort, most of them unservice- able, the carryages * * * gg honey-combed that they cannot be fired without danger, * * * Schenectady is. 164 JOHANNES BLEECKER, JUN. No. 8. 1702. twenty miles from Albany upon another river by which the french must come if they attempt anything on Albany. This is an open Village. It was formerly stockadoed round but since the peace no care having been taken to repair the stock- adoes they are all down. There is a Stockadoed Fort but indeed it is more like a pound than a fort. There is eight Guns in it, not above three fit for service, no Garrison in it when I came, but a Serjeant and twelve men, no powder nor shot, neither great nor small, nor no place to put it into. * * * By Coll. Schuyler's care the Regiment of the Militia of the County of Albany is in pretty good condition but that is perfectly owing to his care." Sept. 24. Albert Janse Ryckman commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Gov- ernor Edward Hyde Charter election, Common Council : Johannis Schuyler, David Schuyler, L Johannis Roseboom, Johannis Cuyler, II. Hen- drick Hanse, Johannis Mingael, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14- • • • (See No. 9.) O '35 O Q C c >~* ■a o VO c CI rS C8 be < 'n •^ OJ w 60 4> c -o n o ^ rn Ifl o .t; u, in o rH ■J^ ■" u ^ 13 ^ O r^ C o 3 rt ^ bfi c O ^ h o C3 >> it: 03 Q «*- o be " O C rt :2; s 5 o < c >i r/i >. J 3 ^ be rt Oh '^ n Ifi u C fV) '■ U1 u •u i-H u > W fe n 03 Q kJ -V "O W O >! r> 3 Cki fc -a m O -" be • o .5 V? fe be ti x: ;- U 2 ?i Ph o H . ^j o No. 9. Albert 3attH^ Sflrkman. . 1702 , 1703. No. 9. ALBERT JANSE RYCKMAN. Date of office: 1702- 1703. Appointed by: Governor Edward Hyde. Date of birth: Before 1663. Place of birth: Beverwyck. Parents: Jan Janse (R.) and Tryntje Janse. Education: Common school. Married to: Neeltje Ouackenbos.. Children: (12-5 s. 7 d.) Johannes, Albert, Tryntje, Pieter (m. Cornelia Keteltas), Harmanus, Marc^aret, Catharina (m. Anthony Bries). Maria (m. Barent Bratt), Magdalena (1685), Tobias (b. 1686, m. Helena Beeckman), Magdalena (1689), Ragel (1692). Residence: Near southwest corner Hudson avenue and Broadway. Occupation: Brewer. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: January, 1737. Place of death: Albany. Date of burial: On January 12th. Title: Captain. Iu< c -a M-H (LI o c g O u ^ TO P^ il < ^ H CO c u; o fci "o - U X r^ -*-• c c < oT Oi c (J U. OJ Si r- U r- E "O ^-v o ^ -a !3C ■« Fi r- r- (U 12* n ■— -^ a ^ rt ^ rt — (u i; o = C/l '•/ 3 fl '^ "5 hJ 2 ?^ >< ^ :S rt p ^ o .^ ■" ,13 ^ u ^• u ^£ n "^ ^ o > rt •? ■^ J, o ^T^ ■-5. rt ^ > z ^ >. ■ r^ ^^ = > Pi o en 3 w C C/) < 4-> > '35 1—1 kJ 'o . f-H CM c/i t>. Vl\ O, t-i "Z, G Z .2 XI < 'c £ a ^ S > o w E 12^ o U C a u % ^ ^^ en >- rH C "o < in "o a O a c rt Z u^ t;J T) W .^J 2 01 O '3 J3 oi OJ ri w n u H ^ Z u •o ► "^ X t^ X 5 ^ ffi D > (J K "^ o u u o -Td •o X u H '5 c o P o a, 1> c 3 ^ aj «J C TJ U .5 o rt c "S > y:; « d C XI •^ ^'' I > r^ tn 4> '^ ^ ptj C O - OJ No. 12. ROBERT LIVINGSTON, JUN. 187 1717-1718. 1717. Act annexing Manor of Livingston to Albany county, May 27. Dirck Wesselse Ten Broeck, who had been Albany's fourth Mayor, dies at Clermont, N. Y., on his estate known as " Bouwerie," Sept. 18. Charter election, Common Council : Johannis Schuyler, Goose van Schaick, I. Johannis Roseboom, Abraham Cuyler, 11. Hen- drick Hansen, Wessell tenBroeck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Hendrick \ an Rensselaer and Robert Livingston engaged in a legal controversy respecting the north boundary line of the latter's Claverack land patent (site of Hudson, N. Y.) Van Rensselaer owner of the northern area, they agree on an inden- ture that Van Rensselaer's south line at its river end be the starting point, then " east by south in a straight line 24 English miles, as far as it goes," Oct. 30. St. Peter's church, the first English church west of the Hudson river, the building 43 x 58 feet, opened by its rector. Rev. Thomas Barclay, the location being at about the centre of State street, where Barrack (Chapel) street would cross it, Nov. 25. The beaver-skins exported from the colony of New York during the year were calculated at a value of $53,520.00, December. 1718. St. Peter's " Church Book," being its written records, started, Apr. 15. Robert Livingston elected speaker of the Assembly, May. Charter election, Common Council : Myndert Schuyler, Goose van Schaick, L Johannis Roseboom, Abraham Cuyler, H. Hen- drick Hansen, Johannis Pruyn, HL Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Few leases existing at Albany or anywhere near excepting those held by the Patroon of Van Rensselaer Manor, December. l88 ROBERT LIVINGSTON, JUN. No. 12. 1719. 1719. Pieter Schuyler begins administration of Province of New York, July 21. Myndert Schuyler is conmiissioned the Mayor of Albany by Pieter Schuyler as President of the Province of New York. Charter election. Common Council : Myndert Schuyler, Goose van Schaick. I. John Roseboom, Abraham Cuyler, II. Johannis .Pruyn, Hendrick Hansen, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. • • • (See No. 13.) ^ c 01 c . o o ^ OS T3 X C c — lU — U fS D cJ^ O s "3 n ffi ~ •u CO w o 4; H a; .n S LO o J2 Tl- E-h" ^^ C/J T3 r^ S D ^ o (/I ■- 2^ u TZ^ -o 4J ^ w JD c c OJ 3 OJ :> o o No. 13. . 1719 — Nov. 8, 1720. , 1723 — Oct. 13, 1725. No. 13. MYNDERT SCHUYLER. Date of office: (a) 1719-November 8, 1720. (b) 1723-October 13, 1725. Appointed by: (a) President Pieter Schuyler, (b) Governor William Burnet. Date of birth: January 16, 1672. Place of birth: "The Flatts." Parents: David Pieterse (S.) and Catalyn Verplanck. Education: Common school. Married to: Raj el Cuyler. Date: New Amsterdam, October 26, 1693. Children: (2) Raj el, Anna (b. 1697, m. Johannes De Peyster, i6th Mayor) . Residence: South side Yonkers (State) street, 3rd east from South Pearl street. Occupation: Merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: October 10, 1755. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: Dutch Church, on October 21. Title: Lieutenant-Colonel. Remarks: Member of Assembly, October 20, 1702-10; 1713-15; 1724; 1728-37. Church Master, 1706. Indian Commis- sioner, 1706-20; 1728-46. Captain of militia, 1710. Alder- man, first ward, 1718-19. Colonel before 1754. Deacon. Bought land on Norman's Kil and Huntersfield (Schoharie) Patent. No. 13. MYNDERT SCHUYLER. I9I 1719-1723. (Continued from No. 12.) 1719. Myndert Schuyler is sworn as the Mayor of Albany to succeed Robert Livingston, Jun., having been commissioned by Hon. Pieter Schuyler, President of the Colony of New York. Governor Robert Hunter returns to England. Beaver-skins valued at $37,435 exported in 1719. 1720. Irish hrst recorded in Albany, May. Dutch Reformed church incorporated, Aug. 10. William Burnet begins administration of Province of New York as governor, Sept. 17. Charter election. Common Council : Harmanus Wendell, Goose van Schaick, I. Plendrick Roseboom, Barent Sanders, H. Hen- drick Plansen, Johannis Pruyn, HI. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. Pieter Van Brugh (or Verbrugge) is commissioned to be Mayor of Albany by Governor William Burnet, Nov. 9, • • • (See No. 6.) (Continued from No. 6.) 1723. Population of the colony of New York 40,564, January. Population of Albany county 6,501 ; consisting of 1,512 men, 1,408 women, 2,'jy'i^ children, 808 slaves, January. Charter election. Common Council : Johannis tenBroeck, Johannis dePeyster, I. Hendrick Roseboom, Barent Sanders, H. Johan- nis Pruyn, Dirck tenBroeck, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 192 MYNDERT SCHUYLER. No. I3. 1723-1725. Gov. William Burnet recommends building of small houses without the stockade for Indians who should come to trade, which is done, and city pays the cost, ' December. 1724. Col. Pieter Schuyler who had been Albany's first Mayor, serving eight years, and the most influential military man of the entire colony of New York in prosecuting Indian wars and wars with the French, yet most friendly with most of the tribes who styled him " Quidor," or " the Indians' friend," beloved of the Iroquois and feared by the French of Canada, born (the son of Philip Pieterse) on Sept. 17, 1657. and married first to Engeltie (Angelica) Van Schaick about 1681, and secondly to Maria Van Rensselaer, daughter of Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, manag- ing Director of Rensselaerwyck, on Sept. 14, 1691, dies Feb. 19. Captain Pietrus Douw (the father of the 25th Mayor, V^olckert Pietrus Douw) the only surviving son of Jonas Douw and a member of the 27th Council of the Province of New York (his wife being Anna Van Rensselaer, born at the Crailo at Greenbush, daughter of Hendrick Van Rensselaer who built it about 1642) erects for himself and family a manorial home at Douw's Point, opposite the southern end of Albany, naming it Wolven Hoeck, because of the packs of wolves frequenting the locality, Hendrick Hansen, who had been the 5th Mayor of Albany, dies, February. Charter election. Common Council : Johannis tenBroeck, Johannis dePeyster, I. Hendrick Roseboom. Barent Sanders, II. Johan- nis Pruyn, Dirck tenBroeck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1725. Robert Livingston, Jun., born about 1663 in Scotland, son of James Livingston, who had been the 12th Mayor of Albany and a man of great importance in the settlement of the colony and dealing with the Indians, dies .A.pril 20. 3 >» < • - a. . O J3 o 9 o ^ ^ "2 ■ - n o o ^ Q O -^ >. o c/5 rt ^ H I -i: P ^ No. 13. MYNDERT SCHUYLER I93 1725. Capt. Henry Holland, commander of the English garrison at this city, and Capt. Lancaster Synies, wardens of St. Peter's church, write a request for a rector to be sent from England to officiate as successor to Rev. Thomas Barclay, who is incapacitated, June 24. Johannes Cuyler commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Governor William Burnet, September. • • • (See No. 14.) No. 14. Oct. 14, 1725 — Nov. 7. 1726. No. 14. JOHANNES CUYLER. Date of office: October 14, 1725-November 7, 1726. Appointed by: Governor William Burnet. Date of birth: 1661. Parents: Hendrick (C.) and Anna Schepmoes, Education: Common school. Married to: Elsje Ten Broeck (.dan. of 4th Mayor). Date: November 2, 1684. Children: (12-3 s. 9 d.) Anna (b. 1685, m. Anthony Van Schaick), Christina (1687, d. y.), Christina (.1689-1755), Hendrik (1692), Sara (b. 1693, m. Hans Hansen, 17th Mayor), Elsje (b. 1695, m. Hendrick Roseboom), Cornells (20th Mayor, b. 1697, m. Catalyntje Schuyler, dau. of 19th Mayor), Johannes A. (b. 1699, m. Catherine Wendell), Maria (b. 1702, m. Cor- nells Ten Broeck), Elizabeth (b. 1705, m. Jacob Sanderse Glen), Rachel (1707, d. y.)., Rachel (November, 1709). Residence: East side North Pearl street, 2d south of Steuben street, to Yaugh (James) street. Occupation: Trader. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: July 20, 1740. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: In Dutch Church. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Alderman. Deacon in Dutch Church, 1695 and 1700. Elder in Dutch Church. Admitted freeman of New York city, 1696. Commissioner of Indian Afifairs, 1706. ■o : ';^^-:Jif;iV;,"i P-, w c u < u" o hJ o c < o Uh ■a rt 2; ^ ^ Q in rt >< W "0 ffi ^ 00 Di -o ^ w rt •- Q Ti a; 'A K -C k" o O S c rt ■o C ^ 00 o t^ w l-l in . -1-' o i; '— ' 1 — . j=; O >. 1- 0) J2 -o r n; IN 1-^ ID '-' _£3 ^ c c o o aj ,t_l "* tUO r;^ '~> rt ^ >> li JD -^ ^ n! -o i; ;; t/) oJ *-. S ^ "H-S a 1^ No. 14. JOHANNES CUYLER 197 1725- 1726. Continuetl from Xo. 13.) 1725. Johannes Cuyler is sworn as the Mayor of Alhany to succeed Myn- dert Schuyler, having been commissioned by Gov. Wilham Burnet, Oct. 14. Vanderheyden " l^alace "" built on the west side of North Pearl street, between IMaiden Lane and State street, by J. J. Beeckman. ( )ctober. Charter election. Common Council: Johannis tenBroeck, Johannis dePeyster, I. Hendrick Roseboom, Barent Sanders, II. Johan- nis Pruyn, Dirck tenBroeck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1726. Fyre-masters when found neglectful ordered by the Common Council to be fined 30 shillings. By reason of the continued illness and incapacity of Rev. Thomas Barclay to officiate at St. Peter's church, a letter is sent to England, requesting that a missionary be sent over for Albany, pointing out that he should speak English plainly, as " Mr. Barclay spoke so broad Scotch that it was difficult to under- stand him," June 24. Bishop of London selects Rev. John Milne to be the missionary at Albany, with headquarters as rector of St. Peter's church, also serving among the Indians within forty miles around. Rutger Bleecker commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Governor William Burnet, September. Charter election. Common Council : Hermanus Wendell, Johannis dePeyster, I. Hendrick Roseboom, Barent Sanders, II. Dirck tenBroeck, Peter Winne. III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. • • • (See No. 15.) No. 15. Nov. 8. 1726 — Nov. lO. 1729, No. 15. RUTGER BLEECKER. Date of office: November 8, 1726-November 10, 1729. Appointed by: Governor William Burnet. Date of birth: May 13, 1675. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Jan Jansen (B.), 7th !\Iayor, and Margareit Rutse Jacob- sen Van Schoenderwoert. Education: Common school. Married to: Catlyna (or Catalina) Schuyler (widow of 2d Mayor). Date: May 26, 171 2. Children: (4-3 s. i d.) Johannes (b. 1713, m. Elizabeth Staats), Margarita (b. 1714, m. Edward Collins), Jacobus (1716), Myndert (1720). Residence: Northwest corner North Pearl and Steuben streets. Occupation: Merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: August 4, 1756. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: Dutch Church, on August 5th. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Recorder. 1725. Brother of Mayor Johannes Bleecker, Eirst presided at Council meeting, November 8, 1726. 15. RUTGER BLEECKER. 1 7-6-1729. Fi'diii a small water-color portrait owned by Morris S. J.'Iiller of Utica in 1892. No. 15. RUTGER BLEECKER. 20I 1726-1728. (Continued from No. 14.) 1726. Rutger Bleecker sworn as the Mayor of Albany to succeed Johannes Cuyler, having been commissioned by Governor WiUiam Burnet, Nov. 8. 1727. Laws are passed regulating the sale of intoxicants of any nature to the Indians when coming into the city to barter, who on return- ing to their tribes, either lead others in evil ways or antagonize the desirable friendly relations that are so essential between whites and redskins residing at such close quarters. Discussion as to whether the city can afford the purchase across the water of " an Enguin or Water Spuyt " to put out fires. Charter election, Common Council : Harmanus Wendell, Ryer Gar- retse, I. Hendrick Roseboom, Barent Sanders, TI. Dirck ten Broeck, Peter Winne. III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1728. John Montgomerie begins his administration of the Province of New York, Apr. 15. Rev. John Milne succeeds Rev. Thomas Barclay as the Rector of St. Peter's Church. John Collins, who was lieutenant in Capt. Henry Holland's company of the English garrison stationed at the fort here and who stood high in the social life of the city, standing godfather for two of Patroon Van Rensselaer's children, and having Lord Cornbury and Colonel Ingoldsby ( two of New York's Colonial Governors) sponsors for his, admitted a practicing attorney and a Commissioner of Indian Affairs from 1720 to 1728, dies at His Majesty's Garrison of Schenectady, where he was in command, Apr. 13. Charter election. Common Council : Ryer Gerretse, Edward Hol- land, I. Hendrick Roseboom, Barent Sanders, IT. Peter Winne, Jacob Visger, III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. 202 RUTGER BLEECKER. No. 1 5. 1729. 1729. Rev. John Milne of St. Peter's Church receiving a stipend of 50 EngHsh pounds yearly, reports at end of his first year that the number of " constant Hearers is at Jeast a Hundred, the number of communicants at Easter last 29." St. Peter's Church pulpit and a special seat (probably a canopied one with the usual curtains) built for the Governor of the Province at a cost of 12 Eng. pounds, 2 sh. yd. Johannes De Peyster commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Gov- ernor John Montgomerie, September. Charter election. Common Council : Ryer Gerritse. Tobias Ryck- man. I. Cornelis Cuyler. Jacob Beeckman, H. Samuel C. Pruyn, JacoJj Lansingh, TTT. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. • • • (See No. 16.) No. 16. Snljamtrs ®^ piaster. Nov. 11, 1729— Oct. 13, 1731. -X' it -;? Oct. 23, 1732 — Oct. 23, 1733. w * -f:- Nov. 23, 1741 — Oct. 13, 1742. No. i6. JOHANNES DE PEYSTER. Date of oificc: (a) November ii, 1729-October 13, 1731. (b) October 23, 1732-October 23, 1733. (c) November 23, 1741-October 13, 1742. Date of appointment: (a) (b) (c) November 14, 1741, under commission of King George II. Appointed by: (a) Governor John Montgomerie. (b) Governor (Col.) William Cosby. (c) Lieutenant-Governor George Clarke. Date of birth: January 10, 1694. Place of birth: New Amsterdam. Parents: Johannes (De P.) and Anna Bancker. Education: Good schooling. Married to: Anna Schuyler (dau. of 13th Mayor). Date: Albany, November 24, 1715. Children: (4-2 s. 2 d.) Anna (b. 1723, m. V. P. Douw, 25th Mayor), Ragel (b. 1728, m. Tobias Ten Eyck), Myndert Schuyler (b. 1734, d. y.), Myndert Schuyler (1739-45). Residence: Yonkers (State) street. Occupation: Political positions. Merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: February 27, 1789. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: North of his pew, Dutch Church. Title: Captain. Remarks: Son of Mayor J. De P. of New York. Born of Hugue- not parentage. Honorable, progressive, generally beloved. Recorder, 1716-28. Lieutenant of foot, 1717. Indian Com- missioner, 1734, 1738, 1739, 1742, 1746. Member of Pro- vincial Assembly, 1744. Captain of horse, 1744. Inspector of ordnance, 1754. First Surrogate of Albany county, April 3, 1756-82. Paymaster New York forces, 1775. Inspector for the carrying on first expedition against Crown Point. i6. JOHANNES DE PEYSTER. 1729-31 ; i73^-33\ 1741-4^- From an oil painting made in 1718, owned in 1904 by his great-great-grand- son, Charles Gibbons Douw, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. No. l6. JOHANNES DE PEYSTER. 205 1729- 1731. (Continued from No. 15.) 1729. Johannes De Peyster sworn as the Mayor of Albany, to succeed Rntger Bleecker, having been commissioned such by Governor John Montgomerie, Nov. 11. 1730. Centennial of Kiliaen Van Rensselaer's colonization. Van Rensselaer Manor bronze cannon, used to defend the Manor and probably first fired from Castle island (below the city), size 3 ft., 5 in. long, with 3^^ in. bore, made in Amsterdam one hundred years ago. Common Council resolves that to make good the city's title to a tract of land known as Tionondorogue, granted to it by the Charter, Mayor Ue Peyster, Recorder Dirck Wesselse Ten Broeck, Aldermen Ryer Gerritse, Jacob Lansing and Cornelis Cuyler, and Ass't Alderman John Visscher, Jun., go to the Mohawks and agree on purchase of the tract located along the Schoharie creek, Oct. 10. The Mohawks sign a deed of land for the " flatts on both sides of Tionondoroges (Schoharie) creek," Oct. 12. Charter election, Common Council : Ryer Gerritse, Tobias Ryck- man, I. Cornelius Cuyler, Johannis Roseboom, II. Samuel Pruyn, Jacob Lansingh, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Fire-hooks and ladders ordered by the Common Council to be made and kept in convenient places, Nov. 24. Mrs. Hendrick Van Rensselaer dies at her residence, Fort Crailo, on the shore of the river at Green Bush (Rensselaer), being the wife of the original owner of the large tract that included the site of the villages opposite Albany, Dec. 6. 1731. Population of the Colony of New York 50,824, January. Population of Albany county 8,573, January. Slaves in Albany county number 1,222, January. 206 TOHANNES DE PEYSTER. No. l6. 1731-1732. St. Peter's Church damaged by a fire, March i. Among' the charges to repair damages caused by fire to St. Peter's is the item " a pint and a half of rum, i s, 6 d., March 15. Common Council permits erection of market-houses in ist and 2nd wards, June. Rip A an Dam begins administration of Province of New York as president, July i. Johannes ("Plans") Hansen commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Rip A"an Dam, President of the Province of New York, Oct. 14. Charter election. Common Council : Ryer Gerritse, Tobias Ryck- man I. Cornelius Cuyler, Johannis Roseboom, Jun., II. Samuel Pruyn. Jacob Lansingh. III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. (See No. 17.) Continued from No. 17.) 1732. Johannes De I'eyster sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeeding Johannes ( " Hans ") Hansen, having been commissioned such by Governor William Cosby. Charter election. Common Council : Ryer Gerritse, Edward Hol- land, I. Cornelius Cuyler, Johannis E. Wendell, II. Isaac Fonda, Gose van Schayck, III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. Jan Jansen lUeecker, who was born at Mcppel, (^veryssel, Holland, on July 9, 1641, the son of Jan lUeecker, arriving at Albany in 1658. Captain of militia, city recorder, justice of peace, city chamberlain, Indian commissioner, member of Provincial As- sembly and the 7th Mavor of Albanv, dies, Nov. 21. The engine " to sjMtut water " liaving arrived from Richard New- sliam, its maker in London, and having been placed in a house in the central part of the city, it is announced by the Common Council that in case of a fire the key might be obtained at the home of Henry Cuyler, living nearby. E u ^ ^ — M O S g ■^ -^ f H^ O n c o "i W o '- <« rH aj (/! No, l6. JOHANNES IMC I'KYSTHR. 207 1733, 1741-1742. 1733. Centciiiii;il of the lirsl Imi^HsIi vessel, The William, coniin^^ up the Hudson river. Centennial of aj^ents of the Dutch h'.asl India f'()ni])any landint,'- settlers at Alhany's site, Charter election, Coniniou Council: Rycr (ierrilsc. Ik-ndrick Kos- ter, I. Cornelis Cuyler, Johannis E. Wendell, II. Goose V. Schaick, Isaac Fonda. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Edward Holland coinniissioned tlu- Mayfjr of Albany by Gov. William Cosby, Oct. 15. • • • (See No. 18.) (Continued from No. 19.) 1741. joliaunes JJe I'eyster sworn as the Mayor of /Mbany a third time, succeeding John .Schuyler, Jun., havin;^ been commissioned by Lieut. -Governor Geort^e Clarke, Nov. 23. Charter election, Common Council: Johannis Marselis, 1 lendrick Cuyler, 1. Johannis Roscboom, Jun., Jacf)b Ten l^yck, 11. Gerret C. Van den l>erf^h, Gerret Lansin^h, III. ]£lection, .Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1742. Ereehoklers number 204 in the city, January. Centennial of the buiUlin^' of Fort Crailo on the cast bank of the river, opposite the lower end of Albany, by Hendrick Van Rensselaer^ Aldermen again claim the sole ri,nht to use the city's j^'reat seal, con- taininj.^ the capital letters "A L li ", and the jjcrfjuisitc'S that accompany its service, instead of the Mayor. 208 JOHANNES DE PEYSTER. No. 1 6. 1742. Volckert Pietrus Doiuv ( later to be the 25th Mayor ) marries Anna De Peyster, daughter of Captain Johannes De Peyster, present Mayor of Albany and granddaughter of Col. Myndert Schuyler, who had been the 13th Mayor, May 20. Stephen Van Rensselaer, the second of the name (and later the 7th Patroon) son of Patroon Stephen Van Rensselaer, baptised, June 2. Cornells Cuyler commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Lieut. - Governor George Clarke, Charter election. Common Council : Hendrick Cuyler, Johannis Marselis, I. John Roseboom, Jun., Jacob Ten Eyck, IT. Gerret C. Van den Bergh, Gerret Lansingh, III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. • • • (See No. 20.) No. 17. Oct. 14, 1731 -Oct. 22, 1732. * * ■•■■ , 1754- , 1756. No. 17. JOHANNES ("HANS") HANSEN. Date of office: (a) October 14, 1731-October 22, 1732. (b) 1754-1756. Appointed by: (a) President Rip Van Dam. (b) Governor James De Lancey. Date of birth: Baptized June 20, 1695. Parents: Hendrick (H. — 5th Mayor) and Debora Van Dam. Education: Common school. Married to: Sara Cuyler (dau. of 14th Mayor). Date: April 25, 1723. Children: (9-6 s. 3 d.) Hendrick (1723), Elsje (1725), Johannes (1727), Johannes (1729), Debora ( 173 1), Johannes (b. 1732, m. Margarita Kip), Pieter (1735, d. y.), Pieter (b. 1737, m. Rachel Fonda). Occupation: Trader. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: December, 1756. Place of burial: On December 6th, in Dutch Church. Title: Honorable. No. 17. JOHANNES HANSEN. 21 1 1731-1754. (Continued from No. i6.) 1731. Johannes (" Hans ") Hansen sworn as the Mayor of Albany to suc- ceed Johannes De Peyster, having been commissioned by Rip Van Dam, President of the Province of New York. Appointment of firemasters Isaac Fryer and Egbert Egbertse in 1st ward, Matheys van der Heyden and Frans Pruyn in 2nd ward, Wilhehnus van den Berg and Matheys de Garmo in 3rd ward. Nov. 6. Fire-engines authorized by Common Council to be purchased (hand- pumps on a small cart into which water was to be poured from buckets passed from well by citizens) by resolution " that an Enguin or Water Spuyt be sent for to England per the first oppertunity in the Spring," Dec. 22. 1732. Fire-engine named the Richard Newsham (operated by hand) and 40 feet of leather hose, ordered by the Common Council, and to be housed in a shed at the corner of Beaver and South Pearl streets, Feb. 22. St. Peter's Church vestry passes a resolution, " resolved by ye above written church wardens & vestry that ye minister shall receive for the marriage of any two of his congregation ye sum of twelve shills & ye dark for recording and bringing water for baptism one shillin & six pence," Apr. 10. William Cosby begins his administration of the Province of New York as its Governor, Aug. i. Johannes De Peyster commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Gover- nor William Cosby, • • • (See No. 16.) (Continued from No. 23.) 1754. Johannes ("Hans") Hansen sworn as the Mayor of Albany, suc- ceeding Robert Sanders, having been commissioned by Gov. James DeLancey, 212 JOHANNES HANSEN. No. I/. 1754-1755. Charter election. Common Council : Johannis van Sante, A'olckert P. Douw, I. Jacob Ten Eyck, Gerrit Marcelis, II. Johannis H. Ten Eyck, Abraham Douw, III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1755. English crown assumes control of Indian affairs. Old seal (the first, with letters ALB.) ordered to be used by Com- mon Council to license carmen and tavern-keepers, and nothing else, and to be known as the '' publick seal of this city," May 3. Because of resumption of hostilities by the English and French, at- tempt is made to capture the forts at Niagara, erected to con- trol route between Canada and the Mississippi, and Maj.-Gen. William Shirley (governor of Massachusetts) makes Albany hi? rendezvous of his troops, then marching to Osw^ego, where he halts, leaves a garrison of 600 men and returns to Albany. Regiment of Col. Ephraim Williams encamped at Greenbush, June. Col. Ephraim Williams makes his will at Albany, and in it makes bequest for establishment of a school (Williams college, at Williamstown, Mass.), July 22. This year marked the great conflict between France and England, not alone across the water, but in New York, and the latter deeply concerned Albany as it was both the place whence men were sent to conduct the fight, but the objective point of the incursions of the large army of the French coming down from the north by the route of Lakes Champlain and George. The French sent Baron Ludwig August Dieskau with an army of size to Canada, which he was to lead south and capture Albany. Of four expeditions planned when the governors of five of the colonies met to consult. — to Nova Scotia, Niagara, Ohio valley, and to capture Crown Point (fifteen miles from the southern end of Lake Champlain, on its west side, held by the French), the latter task was designated as the work for Col. William Johnson. He sent wampum belts at once to all the Indian castles to indicate that he had been made Superintendent of Indian Affairs for all of British North America by General Braddock. Immediately, because of the esteem in which he was held by the Six Nations, 1,100 Indians gathered at Johnson ;::; ■*-' M ^ c o 3 u -o c i2 3 o > c :3 No. 17. JOHANNES HANSEN. 213 1755. Hall, and he asked for one thousand picked men to help him take Crown Point. They agreed, and King Hendrick, although nearly eighty years old, was made their chief. There was jealousy when Massachusetts, claiming to have furnished more men than New York, demanded a leader selected from that colony instead of Tohnson,, and her governor, William Shirley, diverted many of ' King Hendrick's Iroquois to his expedition to expel the French from Niagara. Early in August, Colonel Lyman, commanding the Massachusetts troops, reached Fort Edward, known as the Great Carrying Place, for here every- thing in traveling camps had to be transferred by land for 15 mile?, from the Hudson to the head of Lake George, and here he erected a fort which gave the name to the place, Fort Ed- ward, in honor of a brother of King George H. of England. Here Colonel Johnson with his forces, backed by King Hend- rick, who had young Joseph Brant with him (an Indian youth of n years, educated at Dartmouth) joined Colonel Lyman, ^ ^ August. Colonel Johnson arrives at the head of Lake George (CaldweU) with 3,400 men, including between four and five hundred In- dians, and sets his men at work to construct Fort William Henry, named in honor of a brother of King George II. (The hotel of that name facing directly down the lake, was built on the site of the fort and the ditches of the fort were to be seen in the contour of the grove in 1906.) He desires a fortification to hold the situation until he may construct a fleet to convey his army north to Ticonderoga, August 28. Colonel Lyman proceeds from Fort Edward to join Colonel Johnson at Fort William Henry, bringing the heavy artiUery and leav- ing five companies and about 250 New Englanders to hold the place, ^ ^J^^f' Sir Charles Hardy succeeds James De Lancey as Governor of the Province of New York, ^^P^- ^■ Colonel William Johnson, residing about forty miles northwest ot Albanv at Mount Johnson, is placed in control of troops that are gathered to take Crown Point, and writes to Lords of Trade: "About 250 Indians have already joined me, and as small parties are evrv day dropping in, I expect, before I can be able to leave this place, to have 300 * * * Our Indians appear to be very sincere and zealous in our cause, and their young men can hardlv be withheld from going out a scalping. * * =^ I am building a Fort at this lake (Ft. William Henry) which the French call lake St. Sacrament, but I have 214 JOHANNES HANSEN. No. I7: 1755. given it the name of Lake George, not only in honour to His- Alajesty but to assertain his undoubted dominion here. I found it a mere wilderness, not one foot cleared. I have made a good waggon Road to it from Albany, distance about 70 miles. We have cleared land enough to encamp 5000 Men. The Troops now under my command and the reinforcements on the way will amount to near that number," Sept. 3. Baron Dieskau schemed to thwart Johnson's plans by taking i,6oo- men, Indians, Canadians and French up Lake Champlain and then by land to Fort Edward so as to follow the capture of that place by an attack on Johnson's rear, after which success he would march southward to Albany. By mistake in calcu- lating distances in a densely wooded region east of Lake George, he found himself near Fort William Henry instead of Fort Edward. On his nearing there, Johnson had suspected his coming into the region and had immediately sent a courier to warn Fort Edward ; but Dieskau captured him and thereby learned of Johnson's plans. Johnson had wished to send out three detachments of 1,200 men each, to relieve Fort Edward, where he thought Dieskau would be, and not suffer the loss of all his army; but King Hendrick explained the weakness of such a move when, holding three sticks together he could not break, while taking one at a time he broke each and threw them all at Johnson's feet. (This anecdote of an important move in the state's history, which might have lost Albany to the French, was adopted and idealized in the monument erected just east of the site of Fort William Henry, on a knoll overlooking Lake George, Sept. 8, 1903.) Sept. 5. The relief forces start out from Fort William Henry for Fort Ed- ward in three detachments. Colonel Williams leading the ad- vance ; but after proceeding to the south of the fort about two miles, he halts to wait for the others, and all move on the march without scouts and entirely unsuspicious that Dieskau had en- circled the road at a place four miles south of the lake, where were hills and dense forests, with an ambuscade arrangement. Before all the English had entered the doomed circle a careless shot is fired which is taken as a signal by the French, and one of the bloodiest slaughters on record in New York begins, the In- dian forces on both sides lending a savage fury to the fracas. At the outset. Col. Ephriam Williams is killed, and the men fall back to a long, narrow pond, hemmed in by low, steep-banked hills. The English retreat with speed to Fort William Henry, and Dieskau's men do not have the courage to attack it, al- KING H END RICK. He was leader of the Iroquois allies of Col. Wm. Johnson, and although aged four-score, went up from here to Fort William Henry on Lake George, where he was killed fighting the French on Sept. 8, 1755. He attended important pow-wows in this city. No. 17. JOHANNES HANSEN. 215 1755. though a bloody fight is put up near there. General Dieskau being wounded in the leg (so that he had to be carried to Albany for careful treatment by his enemies) and Colonel John- son is wounded m the leg. The French being repulsed, start a retreat southward, when they are met at the same spot near the pond where they had started the day's fighting, by Captain McGinnis, he having had a small scouting party out with him since the early morning march began and had hurried back on hearing the noise of battle. He routs the French with a deter- mined onslaught, who flee through the forests, caring for neither their arms nor clothing. So many had been killed at these two encounters that graves could not be dug for them by the wearied troops, and hundreds of bleeding corpses had to be cast into the pond, whose waters were turned a deep crimson, giving to the pretty sheet of water the name of Bloody Pond. King Hendrick being among the slain, his Indian bands seek revenge upon the wounded Dieskau, held prisoner by the Americans ; but Col. William Johnson firmly interposes for his preservation, Sept. 8. General Johnson writes : " Our expedition is likely to be extremely distressed & I fear fatally retarded for the want of waggons. The People of the County of Albany & the Adjacent Counties hide their Waggons & drive away their Horses," Sept. i6. Gen. Philip Schuyler and Catherine Van Rensselaer, only daughter of Col. John Van Rensselaer of the Claverack Manor, and granddaughter of the original owner of the vast tract along the east side of the Hudson, after the first division of the Van Rensselaer patent, Hendrick Van Rensselaer, married by Dominie Theodorus Frielinghuysen of the Dutch Reformed Church of Albany, the ceremony taking place at Greenbush, opposite this city, Sept. 17. King George H. gives General Johnson 500 English pounds in cash, and rewards his efi^orts by bestowing upon him and " his heirs male, the dignity of a baronet of Great Britain," September. Myndert Schuyler, the son of David Pieterse Schuyler and Catalyn Verplanck, born at the Flatts, north of Albany, on Jan. 16, 1672, and who had been alderman of the First Ward, Indian Commissioner, captain of militia, member of Assembly and the 13th Mayor of Albany, dies at his home on the south side of Yonkers (State) street, the third door east of So. Pearl street, Oct. 10. 2l6 JOHANNES HANSEN. No. I/. 1755-1756. Charter election, Common Council : Johannis van Sante, A^olckert P. Douw, I. Jacob Ten Eyck, Gerrit Marselis, II. Abraham Douw, Johannis Ten Eyck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in. Oct. 14. 1756. Population of Albany count}- 14.805 whites, 2,619 blacks; total 17,524 at this time, January. Population of the colony of New York 96,790, January. Drinks of the rich consist of Madeira, cider, punch and beer. May. Physicians practice without examination or license, June. Gen. James Abercrombie arrives at Albany with two regiments preparatory to attack on forts at Crown Point and Ticonderoga, held by the French, Jnne 25. The Flatts, historic home of the Schuylers at Watervliet, north of the city, partly burned. Common Council grants St. Peter's Church a piece of ground for a burial-place north of Fort Frederick, July 10. Soldiers numbering about 10,000 continually drilling at Albany, July. Earl of London arrives at Albany to command the army, July 27. French make the English garrison at Oswego surrender and this brings about cessation of hostilities for the time, August. The Flatts. originally built by Richard Van Rensselaer at Water- vliet, and used for generations by the Schuyler family, partly burned earlier in the year, reconstructed along practically the same lines, September. Charter election. Common Council : Johannis van Sante, Volckert P. Douw, I. John R. Bleecker, Johannis Beeckman, Jun., II. Abraham Douw, Johannis H. Ten Eyck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Sybrant Gozen Van Schaick is appointed the 24th Mayor of Albany by Sir Charles Hardy, Governor of the Province of New York, September. • • • (See No. 24.) >. jt
  • « x; > IS "IS "O -S ^ 2 c -1-' c/i Q rt x: 2 O o T3 C Oh ^ a, aj o P o o be o U O V-. O" 3 o > f ■■ o a C w a; tt: J3 w -a o (U < Qi ~~' C H -^ G u c. n << rt C/) u ^_^ •^ t« w rt 13 bJ3 ^ C "'"' l- > — _c t-I «> Pi Ph ii ^ No. 1 8. EDWARD HOLLAND. 221 1737-1740. Lord De La Warr appointed Governor of Province of New York, June. Mayor and Aldermen summon Mrs. Kitchener and bargain to pay her 2 shilHngs and sixpence for every man that eats at her house during the entertainment of the Governor, June 27. Lord De La Warr resigns as Governor of the Province of New York, September. Charter election, Common Council : Johannis Tenbroeck, Johannis Vanderheyden, L Hans Hansen, Johannis Roseboom, 11. Leendert Gansevoort, Ryckert Hansen, HL Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1738. Rev. Henry Barclay, a graduate of Yale and son of Rev. Thos. Barclay, appointed rector of St. Peter's Church, Jan. 20. Rev. Petrus van Driessen, pastor of the Dutch Reformed Church, dies, February. Rev. Cornelis van Schie succeeds the late Dominie Petrus van Driessen as pastor of the Dutch Church. Charter election, Common Council : Johannis Tenbroeck, John Schuyler, L Hans Hansen, Johannis Cuyler, H. Leendert Gansevoort, Ryckart Hansen, HL Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1739. George Clinton, son of Col. Charles Clinton (and later New York State's first Governor) born in Ulster (later Orange) county, July 26. Charter election. Common Council : John Schuyler, Jun., Gerrit v. Benthuysen, L Johannis Cuyler, Jun., Johannis Roseboom, H. Leendert Gansevoort Ryckart Hansen, HL Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1740. Hendrick Van Rensselaer begins enlargement of his residence. Fort Crailo at Greenbush, by the addition of a wing, original house measuring 20 x 60 feet. 222 EDWARD HOLLAND. No. l8. 1740. Ordinance providing for the erection of fire-engine house, May 13. Common Council forbids use of the great seal except during session, because the clerk carries it in his pocket and so it is unobtain- able at other times. Hendrick Van Rensselaer, youngest of the three children of Jere- mias Van Rensselaer, the second Patroon, and who married a granddaughter of Anneke Jans by whom he had four sons and five daughters (all of whom save one raising large families) dies at his residence, the Crailo, at Greenbush, (opposite Albany) bequeathing that estate to his eldest son Johannes, and is buried east of his house (in its rear) in the family burial- ground (remains removed later when the railroads required room for tracks) and news of his death sent at once this day by messengers to all his relatives, J^^ly 2. Hon. Pieter Van Brugh, who had been the 6th Mayor (born July 14. 1666, the son of Johannes Pieterse Verbrugge and Tryntje Roeloffse and a grandson of Anneke Jans) dies July 20. Johannes Cuyler. who had been the 14th Mayor of Albany, and Alderman. Conimissioner of Indian Affairs, deacon of the Re- formed Dutch Church, and admitted " freeman " of New York city in 1696 (born in 1661, the son of Hendrick Cuyler and Anna Schepmoes, marrying Elsje Ten Broeck, daughter of Dirck Wesselse ten Broeck, 4th Mayor, on Nov. 2. 1684) dies at his residence, on the east side of North Pearl street, the second door south of Steuben street, running through to the street on the east, July 20. John Schuyler, Jun., is commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Lieut. -Governor George Clarke, (See No. 19.) No. 19. Oct. 31. 1740 — Nov. 22,1741. No. 19. JOHANNES SCHUYLER, JUN. Date of office: October 31, 1 740-November 22, 1741. Appointed by: Lieutenant-Governor Georg;e Clarke. Date of birth: October 31, 1697. Place of birth: " Tbe Flatts." Parents: Johannes (S. — loth Mayor) and Elizabeth Staats (Wen- dell). Education: Common school. Married to: Cornelia Van Cortlandt. Date: October 18, 1723. Children: (11-8 s. 3 d.) Geertruj (b. 1724, m. Pieter Schuyler, Jun., and 2d Dr. John Cochran), Johannes, Stephanus (1727, d. y.), Catherine (1728), Stephanus (1729, d. y.), Philip (1731, d. y.)' Major-General Philip (b. 1733, m. Catherine Van Rensselaer), Cortlandt (b. 1735, m. Barbara ), Stephanus (b. 1737, m. Lena Ten Eyck), Elizabeth (1738, d. y.), Oliver (1741, d. v.). Occupation: Mercantile. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: November 7, 1746. Place of death: " The Flatts." Place of burial: "The Flatts," West Troy (Watervliet), N. Y. Title: Captain. Remarks: Father of Major-Gcncral Philip Schuyler. Indian Com- missioner, 1733. Alderman first ward, 1738 and 1739. ig. JOHANNES SCHUYLER, Jun. 17-10-1741. From a photograph made by Bradley, of New York, from the miniature owned in 1906, by Mrs. Katharine Schuyler Baxter, of New York city, a great-great-granddaughter. No. 19. JOHANNES SCHUYLER, JUN, 225 1740-1741. (Continued from No. i8.) 1740. Johannes Schnyler, Jun.. sworn as the Mayor of Albany, to succeed Edward Holland, having been commissioned as such by Lieut. - Governor George Clarke, Fort Crailo, a Holland-brick building of two stories and dormer attic, built by Hendrick Van Rensselaer (grandson of Kiliaen Van Rensselaer the ist Patroon, but of the generation that actually came to America) supposedly about 1642, but more probably 20 to 30 years later, at that time with nine stone musket or port-holes through which to project a rifle and then with dimensions 20 x 60 feet, increased during the summer and fall by an addition of some size. October. Charter election. Common Council : Gerrit Van Benthuysen, Johan- nis Marselis, I. Johannis Cuyler, Johannis Roseboom, 11. Ryaert Hansen, Gerret C. Vanden Bergh, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1741. The Mayor allowed the use of city seal to affix same to " tavern keepers lycences," there being much dispute as to who may use. Assembly passes an Act enabling the county and city of Albany to erect a new court-house and gaol. Child named Oliver born to Mayor Johannes Schuyler, Jun. and wife, Cornelia Van Cortlandt ; but died young. Johannes De Peyster commissioned to be the Mayor of Albany a third time, by Lieut. -Governor George Clarke, Nov. 14. (See No. 16.) No. 20. Oct. 14, 1742 — Sept. 28, 1746. No. 20. CORNELIS CUYLER. Date of ofhce: October 14, 1742-September 28, 1746. Appointed by: Lieutenant-Governor George Clarke. Date of birth: (Bap.) February 14, 1697. Place of birth: ' New York, N. Y. Parents: Johannes (C. — 14th Mayor) and Elsje Ten Broeck (dau. of 4th Mayor). Education: Common school. Married to: Catharina (or Catalyntje) Schuyler (dau. of loth Mayor) . Date: December 9, 1726. Children: (9-6 s. 3 d.) Johannes (1729), Elizabeth (1731), Philip (1733), Hendrick (1735). Elsje (1737). Margarita (1738), Cornelis (1740), Col. Abraham C. (26th Mayor — b. 1742), Dirck (1745); Residence: South side Steuben, 4th west of Chapel street. Occupation: Merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: March 14, 1765. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Father of Mayor Abraham Cuyler. Indian Commis- sioner 14 years. No. 20. CORNELIS CUYLER. 229 1742-1744. (Continued from No. i6.) 1742. Cornells Cuyler sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeeding Johannes De Peyster, having been commissioned such by Lieut. - Governor George Clarke. 1743. Johannes J\lyndertse is paid 7 shillings by the city for repairing the stocks wherein criminals are exhibited to the public gaze, April II. George Clinton begins his administration of the Province of New York as Governor, Sept. 2. Common Council appoints Robert Lansingh, Bernardus Hartsen and Michael Basset to take charge of fire-engines at time of fire, ever to be ready, to make keys with which to open engine shed, and to hang the same in their houses when absent, to receive annually six schepels of wheat for these services. Common Council contracts with Anthony Bratt for removal of old block-house ( then located near the City Hall ) to the site of the old powder-house on sand plains south of city ; supplying all labor and material, for 13 pounds, 4 shillings. Charter election, Common Council: Johannis Marselis, Jacob C. Ten Eyck, I. Jacob Ten Eyck, Nicholas Bleecker, II. , III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1744. Albany hears of declaration of war between England and France, and it seriously affects the colonists, who fear attack from Canada, June. Gov. George Clinton holds a conference with sachems of Six Nations and advises them to beware of the French, June 18. 230 CORNEIJS CUYLER. No. 20. 1744-1745. Charter election. Common Council : Jacob C. Ten Eyck, John Mar- selis and Sybrant G. Van Schaick, tie vote ; subsequently John Livingston, I. Nicholas Bleecker, Jun., David V. D. Heyden, II. Jacob A^isher, Jacob Wendell, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 174 5. Jercmias Van Rensselaer, the son of Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, being the 5th Patroon and the 3rd Lord of the Manor, dies immar- ried, and Stephen his brother and the second son of their father Kiliaen, succeeds in the lordship as the 6th Patroon. Charter election, Common Council : Jacob C. Ten Eyck, John Livingston, I. Nicholas Bleecker, Jun., David Vanderheyden, 11. Jacob Vischer, Gerrit Van Ness, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Gov. George Clinton writes to Lords of Trade that he is planning to secure the fort at Crown Point, held by the French in the Indians' own lands, and is sending to Albany " six pieces of Cannon of 18 pounders with carriages, and a proportion of powder. Ball, Match and other Implements," November. The home of Philip Schuyler, a nephew of Mayor Pieter Schuyler and the uncle of Gen. Philip Schuyler, situate on the lands of his father, Johannes Schuyler, is attacked at night by a force of Canadians and Indians under Marin, an officer named Beauvais commanding the squad that surrounds his residence. The French manuscript sent back by these men as a report states : " We went to the house of a man named Philip Skulle (Schuy- ler), a brave man who would have given us much trouble if he had had with him a dozen men as valiant as himself. The other ( Schuyler) replied that he was a dog, and that he would kill him, and then fired upon him. Beauvais repeated his re- quest to surrender, to which Philip answered by firing again. At last Beauvais, weary of receiving his fire, shot and killed him. We entered immediately, and everything was pillaged in an instant. The house was of brick, pierced with loop-holes to the ground floor," Nov. 17. Governor Clinton hears of the French burning a settlement (Schuy- lerville) near a ])lace called " Saratoge," two days previous, which sacking included the fort, the scalping and killing of thirty, and taking about sixty prisoners, Nov. 19. No. 20. CORNFXIS CUYLER. 23 1 1745-1746. Governor Clinton orders the " Six Nations of Indians to take up the hatchet against the Enemy immediately." November. Albany terrorized and filled with refugees, the three market-houses being converted into barracks, December. John Jay (who later becomes first Governor of New York to reside in Albany) the 8th son of Peter Jay. bom in New York city, Dec. 12. 1746. l^xpedition against Canada, New York sending i,6oo men. Col. William Johnson ( Indian Agent) hoping to enlist the Mohawks against the French brings them to Albany from west of the city, putting himself at their head " dressed and painted as an Indian war-captain. The Indians followed him painted for war. As they passed the fort, they saluted by a running fire, which the governor answered by cannon. The chiefs were afterwards received in the fort-hall, and treated to wine. A good deal of private manoeuvering with the individual sachems was found necessary to make them declare for war with France before a public council was held." Auo-. 8. Col. William Johnson appointed " chief manager of the Indian War and Colonel over all the Indians by their own approbation," September. Dirck Ten Broeck commissioned the Alayor of Albany by George Clinton, Governor of the Province of New York, • • • (See No. 21.) No. 21. itrrk oim Mratck Sept. 29. 1746 — Oct. 1. 1748. No. 21. DIRCK TEX BROECK. Date of Office: September 29, 1746 — October 2, 1748, Appointed by: Governor George Clinton. Date of birth: December 4, 1686. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Wessel (T. B. — son of 4th Mayor) and Caatje (or Cattryna) Loockermans. Education: Common school. Married to: ^Margarita Cuyler. Date: November 26. 1714. Children: (12-5 s. 7 d.) Catryna (b. 1715, m. John Livingston), Anna (1717), Christina (b. 1718, m. Philip Livingston, Jun.), ]\Iaria (b. 1721, m. Gerardus Groesbeck), Wessels (1722), Sara (b. 1725, m. Johannes Hendrick Ten Eyck), Margarita (1727-29), Abraham (1729-32), Margarita (b. 1731, m. Ger- ardus Lansing), Abraham (b. 1734, m. Elizabeth Van Rens- selaer — 28th Alayor), Dirck (1736-7), Dirck (b. 1738, m. Anna Douw, dau. of 25th Mayor). Residence: Third Ward (of that period). Occupation: Merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: January 3, 1751. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: On January 7th, in Dutch Church. Title: Honorable. Remarks: City Inspector of Skins. [March, 1715. Deacon in Dutch Church, 1720. Alderman. July. 1722. Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1728, for 15 years. City Recorder, 1728. 21. DIRCK TEN BROECK. September 29, 1746-October 2, 1749. From a photograph made by Austin Engraving Co., from an old engraving owned by The Albany Institute. No. 21. DIRCK TEN BROECK. 235 1746-1747. (Continued from No. 20.) 1746. Dirck i en Broeck sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeeding Cor- nelis Cuyler, having been commissioned by Gov. Geo. CHnton. Population of the colony of New York 61,589. l-'ive companies of militia sent from New York city to protect Albany during the winter, in fear of attack from the north bv the French, September. Common Council orders that every property owner upon hearing the night alarm set candles in their windows to illumine the way for those running to the fort, September. Charter election, Common Council : Jacob C. Ten Eyck, Sybrant G. Van Schaick, I. Johannis Roseboom, Jacob H. Ten Eyck, II. Gerrit Van Ness, Ahasueris Roseboom, III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. Johannes Schuyler, Jun., who had been the 19th Mayor of Albany, born on Oct. 31, 1697, the son of Johannes Schuyler (the loth Mayor) and Elizabeth Staats (Wendell), who married Cornelia Van Cortlandt on Oct. 18, 1723, a valiant colonel of militia during troublous times, Alderman of the ist Ward, Indian Commissioner and father of Gen. Philip Schuyler, dies at " The Flatts," Nov. 7. 1747. Col. William Johnson sends several Ijands of Indians into Canada, and they bring back a number of scalps and many prisoners. Stephen Van Rensselaer, who had succeeded his brother on his death in 1745 as the 6th Patroon, dies, aged 40. leaving two sons and a daughter (the elder son, Stephen, aged 5, becoming later the 7th Patroon, John Baptist, the younger son, to die a bachelor, and the daughter, Elisabeth, to marry Mayor Abra- ham Ten Broeck on Nov. i, 1763), Charter election. Common Council : Jacob C. Ten Eyck, Sybrant G. Van Schaick, I. Jacob H. Ten Eyck, John Roseboom, Jun., II. Gerrit A'^an Ness, Coenraet Ten Eyck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 236 DIRCK TEN BROECK. No. 21. 1748. 1748. City clerk authorized to use the city seal in the presence of three aldermen, or the Mayor may use it in absence of the clerk, the fight being- renewed as to what official should derive the fees and perquisites from its application to documents. Death of Margaret Schuyler Collins, widow of Lieut. John Collins, of Capt. Henry Holland's English garrison at Albany, an im- portant name in transactions for years to come because of tlie large tract of lands the Indians had given to her (2,000 acres, July 10. 1714) situate near the site of Fonda, N. Y., through friendship for her, ]\Iav Peace restored between England and France and quietude obtaining in the Province of New York by reason of the treaty of Aix- la-Chapelle. October. Jacob Coenraedt Ten Eyck commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Governor George Clinton of the Province of New York, Charter election, Common Council : Johannis de Peyster, Jacob C. Ten Eyck, L Hans Hansen. John Glen, H. Coenraet Ten Eyck, Abraham Douw, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. • • • (See No. 22.) DIRCK TEN BROECK'S COMMISSION. George II. of England commissioned " Dirck Ten Brook to be Mayor. Clerk of the Market of our City of Albany and Coroner of our said City and County of Albany for the Year Ensuing," from Oct. 13, 1747; signed Oct. 3, I747- (Owned by N. Y. State Library ; size, 8'A x 15 in. ; seal, 4>< in.) No. 22. Jarnb Qlorarat^it ®mSgrk, Oct. 2, 174^8 — Oct. 14, 1750. No. 22. JACOB COENRAEDT TEN EYCK. Date of office: October i, 1748-October 14, 1750. Appointed by: Governor George Clinton. Date of appointment: October 3, 1749. Date of birth: April 21, 1705. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Coenraedt (T. E.) and Geertje Van Scbaick. Education: Common school. Married to: Catharyna Cuyler. Date: August 17, 1736. Children: (4-3 s. i d.) Anthony (b. 1739, m. Maria Egbertse), Coenraedt (b. 1741, m. Charlotte Ten Eyck; then Geertje Ten Eyck, 1781), Abraham (b. 1743, m. Annatje Lansing), Catarina (1746). Residence: First Ward and on Troy Road. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: September 9, 1793. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemeterv'. Title: Honorable. Remarks: A man of wealth and strict integrity. Commissioner of Indian Affairs, November 16, 1752-June 15, 1754. Member of Committee of Safety, 1775. Judge of Court of Common Pleas. No. 22. JACOB COENRAEDT TEN EYCK. 23Q 1748-1749. (Continued from No. 21.) 1748. Jacob Coenraedt Ten Eyck sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeed- ing Dirck Ten Broeck, having been commissioned by Gov. George Clinton, Philip Schuyler (later becoming the famous general) having been taught at his home by a Huguenot tutor until 15 years old, is sent to New Rochelle, the home of the Huguenot refugees, and is placed in care of Rev. Mr. Stouppe, pastor of the French Protestant Church. 1749. Population of Albany county (after drainage of the inhabitants by King George's War) stated as 9,154 white, and 1,480 black; total population, 10,634, May 10. Population of the Colony of New York given as 73,348, May 10. Peter Kalm, collecting seeds and plants for the University of Upsala, Sweden, sails from New York for Albany, and among the incidents recorded in his journal may be found the following: " We saw a wdiole fleet of little boats returning from New York, whither they had brought provisions and other goods for sale. * * * All the yachts which ply between Albany and New York, belong to Albany. * '^ * They come home almost empty, and only bring a few merchandises with them, among which rum is the chief. * * * The people in it do not row sitting (canoes with the yachts) but commonly a fellow stands at one end, with a short oar in his hand, with which he governs and brings the canoe forward. * * * Battoes are another kind of boats, which are much in use at Albany. * * * The bottom is flat that they may row the better in shallow water. * * * They are chiefly made use of for carrying goods, by means of the rivers to the Indians. * "'• * They sow wheat in the neighborhood of Albany with great advantage. From one bushel they get twelve sometimes : if the soil be good they get twenty bushels from one. ''■' * * The wheat flour from Albany is reckoned the best in all North America, except that from Sopus. * * * They are un- acquainted with stoves, and their chimneys are so wide that one could drive through them with a cart and horses. The water of several wells in this town was verv cool about this 240 TAC015 COENR.\EDT TEN EVCK. No. 22. 1749. time, but had a kind of acid taste which was not very agreeable. * * * I think this water is not very wholesome for people who are not used to it, though the inhabitants of Albany who drink it every day, say that they do not feel the least inconvenience from it. Almost every house in Albany has its well, the water of which is applied to common use; but for tea, brewing and washing, they commonly take the water of the river. * * '* There are two churches in Albany, an English one and a Dutch one. The Dutch church stands at some distance from the river, on the east side of the market. It is built of stone; and in the middle it has a small steeple, with a bell. It has but one minister, who preaches twice every Sunday. The English church is situated on the hill, at the west end of the market, directly under the fort. It is likewise built of stone, but has no steeple. ■■'■ ■■'■ '■■• The town-hall lies to the southward of the Dutch church, close by the riverside. It is a fine building of stone, three stories high. It has a small tower or steeple with a bell, and a gilt ball and vane at the top of it. The houses in this town are very neat, and partly built with stones covered with shingles of the White Pine. Some are slated with tiles from Holland, because the clay of this neighborhood is not reckoned fit for tiles. Most of the houses are built in the old way, with the gable-end towards the street ; a few excepted. * "(■ * The gutters on the roofs reach almost to the middle of the street. This preserves the walls from being damaged by the rain ; but is extremely disagreeable in rainy weather for the people in the streets, there being hardly any means of avoiding the water. The street-doors are generally in the middle of the houses ; and on both sides are seats, on which, during fan* weather, the people spend almost the whole day, especially on those which are in the shadow of the houses. In the evening these seats are covered with people of both sexes ; but this is rather troublesome, as those who pass are obliged to greet every body. * * * The streets upon the whole are very dirty, because the people leave their cattle in them during the sumiuer nights. * * * The fort lies higher than any other building, on a high, steep hill on the west of the town. It is a great building of stone, surrounded with high and thick walls. Its situation is very bad, as it can only serve to keep ofif plundering parties, without being able to sustain a siege. * =■' * The river Hudson, which flows by it, is from twelve to twenty feet deep. There is not yet any quay made for the better lading of the yachts, because the people feared it would sufifcr greatly or be entirely carried away in spring C 9, v" '*-' t-H (J rt OS -a ""So a b o >> in C p • I-t QJ — 1r; ° =-> 1- "O n! m S Q CO O o "S o *^ " O 1. -^ ^ ° ^ 3 (U -tj 13 ^ "2 -S o c ^ C rt n u- X r - 2 o b w be . O ^ t: 4J rt -J"! O ^ ^ ^ n e- CI Q. o O «J en nJ C 4^ O 2 K a! (J c W Xo. 22. JACOB COENR/VEDT TEN EYCK. 2.\\ 1749. by the ice, which then comes down the river. The vessels which are in use here, may come pretty near the shore in order to be laden, and heavy goods are brought to them upon canoes tied together. * * * There is not a place in all the British colonies, the Hudson's Bay settlement excepted, where such quantities of furs and skins are bought of the Indians as at Albany. * * * Many people have assured me that the Indians are frequently cheated in disposing of their goods, especially when they are in liquor ; and that sometimes they do not get one-half, or even one tenth of the value of their goods. I have been a witness to several transactions of this kind. The merchants of x^lbany glory in these tricks, and are highly pleased when they have given a poor Indian a greater portion of brandy than he can bear, and when they can after that get all his goods for mere trifles. The Indians often find, when they are sober again, that they have been cheated ; they grumble somewhat, but are soon satisfied when they reflect that they have for once drank as much as they are able of a liquor which they value beyond anything else in the whole world and they are quite insensible to their loss, if they again get a draught of this nectar. * * * The greater part of the merchants at Albany have extensive estates in the country and a great deal of wood. If their estates have a little brook, they do not fail to erect a saw-mill upon it. * * * Many people at Albany make the wampum of the Indians, which is their ornament and their money, by grinding some kinds of shells and muscles : this is a considerable profit to the inhabitants. " * * If a Jew, who understands the art of getting forward pretty well, should settle amongst them, they would not fail to ruin him. * * * The inhabitants of Alban}- are much more sparing than the English.' The meat which is served up is often inr sufficient to satisfy the stomach, and the bowl does not circulate so freely as amongst the English. The women are perfectly well acquainted with economy ; they rise early, go to sleep very late, and are almost over nice and cleanly in regard to the floor, which is frequently scoured several times in the week. The servants in the town are chiefly negroes. Some of the inhabitants wear their own hair, but it is very short, without a bag or queue, which are looked upon as the characteristics of Frenchmen ; and as I wore my hair in a bag the first day I came here from Canada. I was surrounded with children, who called me Erenchman and some of the boldest ofifered to pull at my Erench dress. Their meat and manner of dressing it is verv diiiferent from that of the English. Their breakfast is 242 JACOB COENRAEDT TEN EYCK. No. 22, 1749-1750. tea, commonly without milk. About thirty or forty years ago, tea was unknown to them, and they breakfasted either upon bread and butter or bread and milk. They never put sugar into the cup, but take a small bit of it into their mouths whilst they drink. Along with the tea they eat bread and butter, with slices of hung beef. Coffee is not usual here : they breakfast generally about seven. Their dinner is buttermilk with bread, to which they sometimes add sugar, and then it is a delicious dish for them ; or fresh milk and bread ; or boiled or roasted flesh. They sometimes make use of butter-milk instead of fresh milk to boil a thin kind of porridge with, which tastes very sour, but not disagreeable in hot w^eather. To each dinner they have a great salad, prepared with abundance of vinegar and very little or no oil. They frequently eat butter-milk, bread and salad, one mouthful after another. Their supper is gen- erally bread and butter, and milk and bread. They sometimes eat cheese at breakfast and at dinner: it is not in slices, but scraped or rasped, so as to resemble coarse flour, which they pretend adds to the good taste of cheese. They commonly drink very small beer or pure water," June lo. Rev. John Ogilvie, preparing to be the rector of St. Peter's Church and having studied under Dr. Samuel Johnson, takes a letter of recommendation from him to the Bishop of London, who forthwith ordains him and issues a license authorizing him to officiate in the "Plantations" (American colonies), June 30. Charter election. Common Council: Johannis de Peyster, Isaac Staats, L Hans Hansen, John Glen, IL Abraham Dow (Douw), Harme Gansevoort, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn ir. Oct. 14. 1750. Rev. John Ogilvie, D. D., first officiates at St. Peter's Church, as its new rector, Feb. 27. Robert Sanders commissioned the ]\Iavor of Albany bv Gov. Geo. Clinton. Charter election. Common Council: Johannis de Peyster, Johanni.- van Sante, L John Glen, Jacob Ten Eyck, H. Abraliam Douw, Plarme Gansevoort, HL Election, Sept. 29 : sworn in. Oct. 14. • • • (See No. 23.) u C/) n Cii, ffi w w H -2 ^ biO < :3 '2. a o o Q ^ JJ W o CO k n O H O (Ll ^ rt 1— < c o < ■"5 > c ^ r^ •" o _i_, > r^ v ^ pi OJ ^ ■^^ bJ3 (U c 3 'C O ;^ -a iJ u n a; o H No. 23. Snbfrt ^mtiirrs. Oct. 15, 1750 , 1754. No. 23. ROBERT SANDERS. Date of office: October 15, 1 750-1 754. Appointed by: Governor George Clinton. Date of birth: Jnly 11, 1705. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Barent (S.) and Maria Wendell. Education: Common school. Married to: (a) Maria Lansing. ( d. Feb. 16, 1743). (b) Elizabeth Schuyler. Date: (a) December 6, 1740. (b) January 11, 1747. Children: (10-4 s. 6 d.) (a) Barent (b. February 4, 1743; d. October 30, 1743). (b) Maria ( b. August 21, 1747; d. Sep- tember 6, 1747), a son (b. and d. July 20, 1748), Maria b. October 15; 1749; ni. Philip Van Rensselaer), Catrina b. February 18, 1752; d. July 26, 1771 ; m. Henry Ten Eyck), Barent (b. December 14, 1753; d. October 15, 1756), Pieter (b. December 2, 1755; d. May 4, 1774), Deborah (b. Feb- ruary 8, 1858; d. November 28, 1798; m. John Sanders of Scotia), Elizabeth (b. July 9, 1760; d. August 13, 1760), Elizabeth (b. December 18, 1761 ; d. April 25, 1786). Occupation : Merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: May 24, 1765. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: r)eneath pew in Dutch Church ; removed to San- ders family cemetery, Scotia, N. Y., 1805. Title: Captain. Remarks: Acted most important parts in dealings conducted with the Indian tribes. 22. ROBERT SANDERS. 1750-1754- From a photograph made Ijy Knapp, All)any, of the oil painting made in 1722, hanging in 1904 in the liouse of his great-great-grandson, Charles P. Sanders, Scotia, N. Y. No. 2^. ROBERT SANDERS. 245 1750-1751. ( Continued from No. 22. ) 1750. Robert Sanders sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeeding Jacob Coenraedt Ten Eyck, having- been commissioned by Gov. George Clinton, ' Oct. 15. Common Council orders the bell of the City Hall rung at noon as well, as formerly, at 8 o'clock at night. No docks at this period, vessels loading cargoes by pontoons of canoes, while anchored in deep water from shore, King George 11. gives silver medals or tokens, twice the size of silver dollars, bearing the likenesses of himself and wife, Queen Caroline, suspended on long chains, to the chiefs of the five Indian tribes of the Iroquois confederation of New York, be- cause of aid rendered the r>ritish arms in fighting the French. 1751. Dirck Ten Broeck, who had been the 21st ]\Iayor of Albany, born Dec. 4, 1686, the son of Wessel Ten Broeck and Caatje Loocker- mans, and who married Margarita Cuyler, on Nov. 26, 17 14, an Alderman, Commissioner of Indian At^'airs for 15 years following 1728, the City Recorder in 1728, and a deacon of the Dutch Church, dies, Jan. 3. Corporation, by order of the Common Council, sells at auction the exclusive one-year's right to Cornelius Van Vechten to ferry from Greenbush to Albany for 3 pounds 19 shillings, and to Jeremiah the sole right to ferry from Albany to Greenbush for one year, for 3 pounds 4 shillings, March 2. Agitation started by the vestry of St. Peter's Church to reconstruct it largely by the erection of a tower or spire rising at the gable nearest Fort Frederick, further up Yonkers (State) street, and by placing a bell in the tower, one purchased at London from Warner & Co. (erroneously styled in the next century " the Queen Anne bell ") and now first hung, 3*Iarch 6. Thirty-three canoes, holding about two hundred of the Six Nations, come to Albany for conference with Gov. George Clinton, whereat are also present the Indian Commissioners from Massa- chusetts, Connecticut and South Carolina, the Governor of the last-named province sending six Catawba sachems to make peace with the Six Nations ; wampum belts are exchanged, tomahawks buried and the calumet smoked, J^i^Y- 246 ROBERT SANDERS. No. 23. 1751-1753. Charter election, Common Council: johannis de Peyster, Johanni.-. van Santc, I. Jacob Ten Eyck, John Glen, II. Abraham Douw, Harme Gansevoort, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in. Oct. 14. 1752. New city seal (showing the beaver) adopted, the old one (with letters ALB) being declared null and void and dead in law, and the new one declared for the use of the Common Council, April 28. Massachusetts disputes her western boundary line with New York, the former claiming by Charter the lands from the eastern boundary of the colony (Massachusetts seaboard on the At- lantic) westward to the Pacific Ocean, and consequently seriously encroached on the manors of Hendrick Van Rensselaer and of Robert Livingston to the south of it, sometimes the Massachusetts officers being captured and hurried ofif to the Albany gaol, and again the Albany sherifif being captured and taken to the Springfield lock-up, — hence, Livingston writes to Governor Clinton to complain strenuously to Massachusetts* Governor, April. New city seal used on all public documents, the Mayor or Aldermen to be paid 3 shillings, in fees, and the clerk 6 shillings, for placing seal to any instrument, June 30. Charter election. Common Council : Johannis de Peyster, Johannis van Sante, I. Jacob Ten Eyck, John Glen, II. Abraham Dow (Douw), Harme Gansevoort, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1753. Phili]) Ryley given charge of the town-clock by the Council. Common Council draws up a petition to Gov. George Clinton, re- questing him to levy a tax on the Province in order to raise $30,000 with which to build a stone wall about Albany, claiming, as a frontier town, it should be fortified at expense of the colony. May 29. Eerry charges fixed by the Common Council at 3 coppers per head. Lords of Trade address letters to the governors of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Penn.sylvania, Maryland and ALBANY SEAL OF 1752. The first city seal of 1686, with letters "ALB," declared dead in law and this one adopted on April 28, 1752- No. 2^. ROBERT SANDERS. 247 1753-1754. Virginia, requesting- commissioners to assemble at Alban}- in Colonial Congress, in order to discuss and if possible con- federate the colonies for their mutual defense against a common enemy, Whitehall, Sept. i8. Sir Danvers Osborne begins the administration of the Province of New York as its Governor, Oct. lo. Governor Danvers Osborne, overcome by the difficulties ancl vexa- tions of his new office, quarrels and criticisms, commits suicide. Oct. 12. James de Lancey (born in New York city on Nov. 27, 1703, the son of Stephen de Lancey, who arrived there on June 7, 1686, and married Anne Van Cortlandt on Jan. 23. 1700) succeeds Sir Danvers Osborne in the administration of affairs of the Province of New York, but cannot be made its Governor be- cause born in the limits of the colony, Oct. 12. Charter election. Common Council : Johannis de Peyster, Johannis van Sante, I. Jacob Ten Eyck, John Glen, II. Abraham Dow (Douw), John IT. Ten Eyck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1754. The provinces deciding to send commissioners to Albany, the same gather in Colonial Congress at the court-house, located at the northeast corner of Court ( Broadway ) and Spanish streets (Hudson ave.),and proceed to discuss the proposition of peace- ful co-operation with the Indians, Wednesday, June 19 Commissioners at the Colonial Congress include : For Massachu- setts — Samuel Welles, John Chandler, Thomas Hutchinson. Oliver Partridge, John Worthington ; for New Hampshire — Theodore Atkinson, Richard Wibird. Meshech Weare, Henry Sherburne, Jun. ; for Connecticut — William Pitkin. Roger Wolcott, Jun., Elisha Williams; for Rhode Island — Stephen Hopkins, Martin Howard, Jun. ; for Pennsylvania — John Penn, Richard Peters, Isaac Norris, Benjamin Franklin ; for Maryland — Col. Benjamin Tasker, ]\Iaj. Abraham Barnes, June 19. Rev. Richard Peters (commissioner to Colonial Congress from Pennsylvania) preaches the sermon at service at St. Peter's Church, attended by the delegates, on Sunday, June 2t,. Motion is made before the Colonial Congress that the commissioners state their various opinions as to the formation of a union of the 248 K(»l!liRT SANDERS. No. 23. 1754. colonies as being gravely necessary for their future security, which motion being passed unanimously a committee is named consisting of Thomas Hutchinson, Theodore Atkinson, Willian.i Pitkin, Stephen Hopkins, Benjamin Franklin and Jlenjamin Tasker, " to prepare and receive plans or schemes for the union of the colonies, and to digest them into one general ])lan "' to be announced to the convention so soon as formulated, June 24. Colonial Congress having had an extended debate on the matter, accepts by vote the " Plan of a ])roposed Union of the several colonies of jNIassachusetts Bay, Xew Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Xew York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Mary- land, A'irginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, for their mutual defence and security,'' and it is then proposed that the colonies make humble application to be granted by Act of Pai- liament the right to form one general government in America, under which each colony might retain its constitution excepting in those particulars which the government of the crown might wish to change, in order that the general government so created might be administered by a president-general appointed by the crown and the grand council chosen by the representatives of the several colonies, convening in their assemblies, and the proportionate representation was to be : Massachusetts Bay, 7 ; New^ Hampshire, 2 ; Connecticut, 5 ; Rhode Island, 2 ; New York, 4; New Jersey, 3; Pennsylvania, 6; Maryland, 4; \'ir- ginia, 7 ; North Carolina, 4 ; South Carolina. 4 ; total, 4S mem- bers, J>^iiy- Colonial Congress adjourns, designating Philadelphia the place for the next assembling, Ji-ib' ^^■ French violate the i\ix-la-Chapelle treaty, a band of French Indians burning houses at Hoosick and about sixty Schaghticoke In- dians going with the invaders to Canada, -^^^S- ^S. Lieutenant-Governor De Lancey orders new stockades placed at Albany and the militia of the nearby counties to be held ready to proceed thither, September. Johannes ("Hans") Hansen commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Lieut. -Ciovernor James De Lancey. (See No. 17.) CITY HALL OF 1740. Erected on site of old Stadt Huis of Nov., 1673, at n. e. cor. Broad- way and Hudson ave., Oct. 29, 1740; law amended Apr. 29, 1743, to provide $2,000 to complete. Fir^t Colonial Congress met herein June 19, 1754 ; vacated Nov. i, 1808, and offices moved into Capitol just completed at head of State st. Destroyed by fire Apr. 30, 1836. No. 24. ^ghrant (^azm Ban ^rtj atrk. -, 1756 — Sept. 28, 1761. No. 24. SNI'.KAXT (i()ZI-:X \.\.\ SellAK-K. Pd/c of (i/'licc: I75(')-Sc'])l(.'iii1)t'r _'S, \y()\. . I pf'oiiitt'd hy: (iovcnior (Sir) L'harU's 1 lardy. Ihilc of Hirllr. Dcccmhi'r K), 1708. Parciils: ( ii)/.(.ii ( \'. S. ) and C'atarina Staats. F.diication: COmnion school. Married to: Alida Rosehooni. Pate: Decern her 1 1 , 1735. children: (7-4 s. 3 d. ) ( lo/.en ( h. I73''>, 111. Maria Ten llroeck). Ahiria (1738), Kyckie (1741), .Myndert ( 1 743 ) , C'alharina • (1745). Maria ( h. 1745. ni. I'hihp (.onyn), Myndert ( 1751). Residence: Sonth corner Aharket street ( llroadway ) and l^'.xchani^'e street. Relis^ioii : Hutch Reforini'(k Title: Ihmorahk'. 2.-. SYBRANT G(3ZEN VAX SCHAICK. 1756-1761. From an old oil paiiUiiifjj liangint:- in T904 in the building of the Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society. No. 24. SVBRANT GOZEN VAN SCIIAICK. 25 1 1756-1757. (Continued from No. 17.) 1756. Sybrant Gozen \"an Schaick sworn as the Mayor of Albany, suc- ceeding Johannes (" Hans ") Hansen, having been commis- sioned such by Sir Charles Hardy, Governor of the Province of New York. Small-pox epidemic. October. Johannes (" Hans ") Hansen, who had been the previous Mayor (the 17th) of Albany, born in June, 1695, the son of Hendrick Hansen, the 5th Mayor of Albany, and Debora Van Dam, and who married Sara Cuyler, the daughter of Johannes Cuyler, the I4tli Mayor on April 25, 1723, dies at his residence in this citv, December. 1757. Birth of Alexander Hamilton (who on Dec. 14, 1780, marries Gen. Philip Schuyler's second daughter, Elizabeth, at the Schuyler Mansion in the southern part of the city) in the island of Nevis, West Indies, Jan. 11. Sir Charles Hardy resigns as Governor of the Province of New York, preferring naval life as an Admiral of the British Navy, and James de Lancey again administers as Lieut. -Governor, June 3. Hendrick Van Rensselaer's Claverack patent involved in the Massa- chusetts-New York boundary dispute, a matter so serious along the line that wherever there were dwellers riots occurred with such frequency as to make it unsafe to own a farm near the boundary, and in one of these pitched battles between mobs two men were killed, and threats made to take both Hendrick Van Rensselaer and Livingston dead or alive, Ji-^ly- Duncan ^Ic Vicar, father of Mrs. Anne MacVicar Grant (born at Glasgow. Feb. 21. 1755) who wrote of Mrs. Philip Schuyler in " Memoirs of an American Lady," (pub'd at London in 1808) comes to America as an officer of the 51st British Regiment, his wife and daughter remaining at home (another year before joining him). Montcalm's French troops succeed in massacring the English gar- rison at Fort William Henry at southern end of Lake George. August. 252 S^•|iRA^■T GOZEN VAN SCIIAICK. No. 24. 1757. Elizabeth Schuyler, the second daughter of Gen. Philip Schuyler and Catherine Van Rensselaer (to marry Alexander Hamilton at the Schuyler Mansion in the southern part of the city on Dec. 14, 1780), born at the southeast corner of Yonkers (State) street and Pearl (house removed later to widen Pearl street), Aug. 7. Albanians fear an attack from the French and refugees flock thither and with the soldiers arriving for defence crowd the city. Of the latter Mrs. Anne Grant in her " Memoirs of an American Lady " writes : " Those polished strangers now began to make a part of general society. * * * By this time the Anglo- mania was beginning to spread. A sect arose among the young people, who seemed resolved to assume a lighter style of dress and manners, and to borrow their taste in those respects from their new friends. * '■' * The colonel of the regiment, whO' was a man of fashion and family, and possessed talents for both good and evil purposes, was young and gay, and being lodged in the house of a very wealthy citizen, who had before, in some degree, affected the newer modes of living, so capti- vated him with his good breeding and affability, that he was ready to humor any scheme of diversion which the colonel and his associates proposed. Under the auspices of this gallant commander, balls began to be concerted, and a degree of flutter and frivolity to take place, which was as far from elegance as it was from the honest, artless cheerfulness of the meetings usual among them." The first theatrical performance given at Albany, a private aft"air by the British officers quartered here for the winter, is criticised by Mrs. Grant in her '' Memoirs "' as follows : " Now the very ultimatum of degenerac}'. in the opinion of those simple good people, was approaching ; for now the officers, encouraged by the success of all their projects for amusement, resolved to new-fashion and enlighten those amiable novices whom their former schemes had attracted within the sphere of their influ- ence ; and for this purpose a private theatre was fitted up and preparations made for acting a play. " " '•' The play * >;= * ^^.^j. ^p^(.fi jj-, ^ barn and ])retty well attended. * * '■' It was the Beaux' Stratae'em, no favorable specimen of the delicacy or morality of the British theatre ; and for t^^c wit it contained very little of that was level to the comprehen- sion of the novices who were there first initiated into a knowleds"e of the magic of the scene. ''' " * They laughed very heartily at seeing the gay young ensigns, whom they had been used to ■t: o -o OT c > <« 3 "^ C I— > bfl "■^ - c C OJ ui ca 1-. n > i: o ^ - O CO O w Q O o Q W W ui X c ■ - bc <| (U ^ ^ O P ^ a, _Q 55 ^ C 1- c y. ^ < eq Ui J 4> < Uh o Dh in o i: o i; 4) "W No. 25. VOLCKERT PETRUS DOUW. 261 1763-1764. Common Council buys 48 leather fire-buckets to be passed from wells at time of fire, each one of the six aldermen and six assist- ants to keep four at his house in readiness to bring forth, November. Dutch Reformed Church established at Berne. 1764. Mrs. Anne Grant writes her " Memoirs of an American Lady,'' meaning Mrs. Philip Schuyler (to be published in 1808 at London) bemg located at Albany several years although of Laggan, Scotland. Stephen Van Rensselaer (second of the name and the 7th Patroon) marries Catherine Livingston, daughter of Philip Livingston a Signer of the Declaration of Independence (who have three children born to them — Stephen, b. Nov. i, 1764; Philip Schuyler, b. April 15, 1766, becoming the 32nd Mayor of Albany; Elizabeth, marrying John Bradstreet Schuyler, 1787, the son of Gen. Philip Schuyler), January. Volckert P. Douw buys a negro woman, Phoebe, and three children, paying Benjamin Ashley, on the Delaware, $500 for them. Gallows Hill, at head of State street, 11 acres, sold to Capt. Cort- landt Schuyler for $1,000 and quit rent of 50 shillings yearly forever, July 31. Rev. Thomas Brown succeeds Rev. John Ogilvie (who becomes rector of Trinity Church in New York city) as the rector of St. Peter's. Charter election. Common Council : Peter Lansingh, Sybrant ( G. ) Van Schaick, L John Cuyler, John R. Bleecker, IL Abraham Yates, Jun., Cornelis TenBroeck, IIL Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Birth of Stephen Van Rensselaer, third of the name and son of the 7th Patroon who had in January married Catherine Livingston, Nov. I. Common Council declares the deed to Capt. C. Schuyler for Gallows Hill null and void, and sells the property to Abraham Wendell, Dec. 20. 262 VOLCKERT PETRI'S DOUW. No. 25. 1765. 1765. Van Rensselaer Manor House (the 3rd edifice of the family at Albany) built by Stephen \"an Rensselaer under the direction of his guardian, Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck, on the east side of the Troy Road at the head of Broadway, as a home to which to bring his bride, Catherine, daughter of Philip Livingston (Signer of the Declaration), and to be in keeping with the estates of a Lord of the Manor. Union Lodge, the first lodge of Free and Accepted Masons con- stituted at Albany, organized by warrant from the Provincial Grand Master, George Harrison, installing Peter W. Yates as its worshipful master, paragraphs from its by-laws reading: " Every one who shall be made a Mason in this Lodge is to pav three pounds 4s for the Fund and one Dollar to the Tyler, for which he shall be entitled to the three degrees without further expence. '■' * * The Senior warden shall every lodge night acquaint the master when it is ten o'clock, then ye lodge is to be closed unless in cases of extra business, and on lodge even- ings no member under a fine of one shilling shall have more drink than for six pence in the lodge-room without the Master's consent," Feb. 27. Ordinances passed fining owner of a chimney that catches afire jo shillings ; any member of the city guard discovering a fire entitled to a reward of 3 pounds ; that two persons in each ward be appointed to view chimneys, hearths and ash-places ; that each house-holder having two fire-places own two buckets marked with initials, and that anyone retaining the bucket of another 48 hours after a fire be fined 10 shillings ; furthermore, that all persons place 3 candles in the front windows during progress of a fire, riot, or other night alarm, or sufifer penalty of 3 shillings, and no one be allowed to clean any chimney except an authorized city-sweep. Oct. 14. Charter election. Common Council: Peter Lansingh, Sybrant (G.) Van Schaick, L John R. Bleecker, Jacob Lansing, IL Corne- lius TenBroeck, Abraham Yates, Jun., HL Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Stamp Act passed by Parliament in 1764, requiring notes, deeds, bonds and all business documents to be written or printed on paper stamped by the British government, angers the people of the Province of New York, as on the day of its becoming No. 25. VOLCKERT PETRUS DOUW. 263 1765-1767. operative the citizens of New York city burn an effigy of Lieutenant-Governor Golden, the administrator of the Province of New York. Nov, ]. Sir Henry Moore begins his administration of the Province of New York as governor, Nov. 13. Sir WilHam Johnson, by letter, warns Lords of Trade that the " Stamp Act " has created anew the strong desire of the colonists for a democratic system of government, such as had been proposed at the Golonial Gongress at Albany in 1654. and unless this spirit be checked the idea of liberty and independence would gain ground beyond control, Nov. 22. 1766. Gommon Gouncil determines to erect three stone docks, the north one 80 feet long and 40 feet broad ; the middle one, at foot of Maiden Lane, to be 80 feet long and 30 feet broad ; south dock, about ofif the Gity Hall, to measure same as the middle one, March 4. Followers of the Swiss reformer, Ulric Zwingli, organize a society of German Reformed church and are granted land for edifice on the Wouts Burgh (the hill north of the fort). Oct. 13. Gity deeds to Samuel Stringer for the purpose of erecting thereon a lodge-building, a plat of ground " on the Hill near the Fort adjoining the English Burying place" (north-west corner of Lodge street and Maiden Lane), Oct. 18. Charter election, Gommon Gouncil : Peter Lansing, Henry L Bo- gert, L John R. Bleecker, Jacob J. Lansing, H. Abraham Yates, Jacob Van Schaick, HL Election, Sept. 29; sworn in. Oct. 14. 1767. Right to use and rent the city's new stone docks until Jan. i, 1768, sold at public vendue to Gysbert Marsells and John Alen for 70 pounds, March 28. General refusal to purchase English goods because of duties. Albany families number 148 on the Patroon's map. Jack, negro of James Sterling, indicted for murder. 264 VOLCKERT PETRUS DOUW. No. 25. 1767-1768. Charter election. Common Council: Peter Lansing, Henry I. Bo- gert, I. Jacob J- Lansing, John R. Bleecker, IL Abraham Yates. Jun.. Abraham TenBroeck. IIL Election. Sept. 29; SAvorn in, Oct. 14. W arrant given by Henry Andrew Francken. deputy grand inspector- general of all the superior degrees of Masons in the West In- dies and North America, constituting " William Gamble, Francis Joseph von Pfister, Thomas Swords, Thomas Lynott and Richard Cartwright into a Regular Lodge of Perfection, by the name of Ineffable," Dec. 20. L^nion Lodge makes a procession, with four of the Ineft'able Lodge, through the main streets, Dec. 28. 1768. Masters' Lodge, Number 2, York Rite, organized, with William Gamble as its first Master ; Samuel Stringer as Senior Warden, and Jeremiah Van Rensselaer as its Junior Warder, March 5. Union Lodge does not accede to the proposition made by the In- effable Body to construct and have a joint right in a lodge building (the latter occupying rooms in the inn of Richard Cartwright, to whom each member paid one shilling on lodge night, the society providing candles) and it is agreed to accept the proposal of Peter Sharp to construct a lodge-building at a cost of 300 pounds, Feb. 23. Samuel Stringer buys of Union Lodge the lot obtained from the city in 1 766, 74 feet on west side of Lodge street and 79 feet along north side of Maiden Lane, for 4 English pounds, Feb. 27. City conveys to Samuel Stringer 6 feet additional, along east side of the plat, which measures 70 feet along its north side, and work on building is begun, April t. Corner-stone of Masters and Ineffable Lodge laid, May 12. Masters and Ineffable (styled Union while building) Lodges' edifice completed, Jnne 24. Charles Newman & Sons (woolen merchants) established on South Market street (Broadway) by Charles Newman. St. Peter's church granted a charter by Gov. Henry Moore. July 13. Rev. Thomas Brown removes from Albany and is succeeded by Rev. Henry Munro as rector of St. Peter's church. l\o. 25. VOLCKERT PETRUS DOUW. 265 1768-1770. Charter election. Common Council : Peter Lansing, John Rooreback, I. Jacob J. Lansing, John R. Bleecker, IL Abraham Yates, Jun.', Abraham TenBroeck, IIL Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1769. Professional theatrical performers allowed by Governor Moore to come to Albany to play during one month, and the hospital or Pine street (near site of Lutheran church) having been fitted with a stage, the first play, " Venice Preserved," is given by Lewis Haliam, Jr., John Henry, Mr. Woods, Miss Cheer and others, July .3 Death of Gov. Henry Moore. Cadwallader Golden begins his administration as lieutenant-gov- ernor of the Province of New York, Sept. 12. Charter election. Common Council : Peter Lansingh, John Rore- back, I. John R. Bleecker. Abraham C. Cuyler, H. Abraham Yates, Jun., Abraham Ten Broeck, UT. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1770. Gloucester county partitioned from Albany, ]\Iarch 16. Abraham Cornells Cuyler commissioned the ]\Iayor of Albany by Lieut. -Gov. Cadwallader Golden. • • • (See No. 26.) No. 26. Ahraljam Olnrn^ltH Qlugbr. Sept. lO, 1770 — April 16, 1775. No. 26. ABRAHAiAl CORNELIS CUYLER. Date of office: September 10, 1770-April 16, 1778. Appointed by: Lieutenant-Governor Cadwallader Golden. Date of birth: April 11, 1742. Parents: Gornelis (G. — 20th Mayor) and Gatharina Schuyler (dau. of lOth flavor ). Education: Good schooling". Married to: Jannetje Glen. Date: April 16, 1764. Children: (5-3 s. 2 d.) Gathalina (b. 1765), Jacob (b. 1766), Elisa- beth (b. 1767), Gornelis (b. 1769), Jacob Glen (b. 1773). Residence: West side No. Pearl st.. site of " North " Dutch Ghurch. Occupation: Military. Religio)i: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: February 5, 1810. Place of death: Yorkfield, Ganada. Title: Golonel. Remarks: Golonel of militia. Zealous in his dealings and of integ- rity. Last Mayor by Royal Gommission. CUYLER .MANSION— VLIE HOUSE. This house, so called to signify ' House by the Marsh," was erected by Hendrick Cuyler on the Greenbush shore, about 1770 (some records place it 50 years earlier), and was standing, south 01 Fort Crailo, in good preservation in 1906. jSIo. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 269 1770-1771. (Continued from No. 25.) 1770. Col. Abraham Cornells Cuyler is sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeeding- \'olckert Petrus Douw, having received appoint- ment from Lieut.-Gov. Cadwallader Colden, Sept. 10. Survey of the city made by Robert Yates. Four docks built along the river. Charter election, Common Council: Peter Lansingh, John Roor- back, I. Guysbert G. Marselis, John R. Bleecker, II. Abraham Yates, Jun., Abraham TenBroeck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. John Murray, Earl of Dunmore, made Governor of New York ' Province, Oct. 19. Sloop Olive Branch, the first to sail from here for the West Indies, sets out, Nov. 3. City sells all remaining land (a few farms having been released ! of ttte tract bought by Hendrick \^an Rensselaer, six miles square along Hoosac river, from the Schaghticoke Indians, for less than $1,000, to Johannes Knickerbaker, bargaining, "for - which the said Knickerbaker is to find the said corporation and their successors with Meat, Drink, and Lodging once a year at his- house at Schactacook." 1771. Public lighting of the streets attempted by the placing of twenty oil lamps at various points. Population of the Colony of New York at this time 163,337. Population of Albany county (before greatly reduced in area by forming several other counties from it at later dates) 38,829 white, 3,877 black and a total of 42,706 at this time. William Tryon made Governor of New York Province, July 9. Charter election, Common Council : Peter Lansingh, Peter Silves- ter, I. Guysbert Marselis, Robert Yates, II. Abraham Yates, Jun., John Ten Broeck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in. Oct. 14. 270 AEl^VHAM CORXELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1771-1772. First Albany newspaper, " The Gazette," published by Alexander and James Robertson, one-fourth the size of the newspaper sheet of a century later, Nov. Milestones placed along the highway to Schenectady as far as the Half- Way House, beginning at the Reformed Dutch Church standing in the middle of the street, a little to the west of the intersection of Yonkers (State) street and INIarket street (Broadway). 1772. The printers of the " Albany Gazette '" apologize to the public for the non-appearance of the publication because the paper was not supplied by the New York stage with any regularity, and also because the paper was frozen into one mass by the heavy fall of snow, Jan. 13. Tryon and Charlotte counties formed from lands set off from Al- bany county as a means to expedite public business, such as attention of court duties, which forced the inhabitants to come several hundred miles to Albany when attending to causes or filing documents, Charlotte county being established between the northern boundary of Albany county and Canada, Tryon becoming as Montgomery county, March 12. "Albany Gazette " starts publication of meteorological tables. Manor of Rensselaerswyck erected into a district, March 24. Col. Philip Schuyler and Gen. John Bradstreet jointly interested in the purchase, with Rutger Bleecker and Gen. John Morin Scott, of a tract of 22,000 acres in the INTohawk valley, known as Cosby 's Manor (the city of Utica later built within it), origi- nally granted to William Cosby, Provincial Governor of New York, by royal patent, sold by the sheriff" to the four in Schuy- ler's name. General Tryon, Governor of the Province, visits the city, and the corporation banquets him at Cartwright's Tavern, July 20. A book store established at the " Elm Tree Corner " by Stuart Wilson, to be converted later into the Blue Belle Tavern, north- west corner of Pearl and State streets. Charter election. Common Council : Gerrit Van Sante, Peter W. Yates, I. Guysbert Marselis, Robert Yates, Jun., II. Abraham Yates, Jun., John Ten Broeck, III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 27 1 1773-1774. 1773. Vlie House, " The House by the ^larsh," built by Hendrick Cuyler on the east bank of the Hudson river half a mile above Douw's Point, two stories and an attic of brick, Colonial architecture, its fireplace tiled with Biblical scenes of Holland production and huge oaken beams extending across the main hall (later occupied by a Van Rensselaer family). Charter election. Common Council: Peter W. Yates, Gerrit Van Sante, I. Guysbert G. Marselis, Robert Yates, H. John Ten Broec'k, Thomas Hun, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1774. Mother Ann Lee arrives here from Manchester, Eng., and settfmg about four miles to the west of the city, founds the Shakers. Cadwallader Golden again made Lieutenant-Governor of the Colony, April 7. Sir William Johnson (b. at Warrentown, County Down, Ireland, 1715), frequently a conspicuous figure in this city bearing on transactions with the Indians in the warfare against the French of Canada, dies near Johnstown, N. Y., July 4- First Continental Congress held at Philadelphia to consider griev- ances against the British rule. Sept. 5. Charter election. Common Council: Peter W. Yates, Gerrit van Sante, I. Robert Yates, Guysbert G. Marselis, II. John Ten Broeck, Thomas Hun, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. In accordance with the views of the Continental Congress held at Philadelphia on September 5th where the discussion was of the grievances of the colonists at Great Britain's policy of impos- ing taxes upon them without their consent, the freeholders of Albany assemble, and John Barclay having been made chair- man, proceed to appoint a Committee of Superintendence and Correspondence. November. Although by Act of the Assembly of Nov. 11, 1692, it was ordamed that two fairs be held yearly in the county of Albany, one in the city of Albany and one at Crawlier in Rensselaerswyck, the 2/2 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1774-1775. records do not show that any had been held until the Common Council's order that the High Constable appoint two constables to attend the ferry during the time of the fair, Nov. 7. Gen. John Bradstreet (buried in Trinity churchyard, New York city), an intimate friend of Col. Philip Schuyler, at whose house he had frequently made lengthy visits and after whom Schuyler named his son (Schuyler also named as his executor), feeling his end approaching sends for Colonel Schuyler and his daughter Margarita, who arrive in time and he breathes his last held by her arms, Sept. 25. Rev. Thomas Brown, rector of St. Peter's Church, having moved from this city, he is succeeded by Rev. Henry Munro. 1775. In the House of the Assembly (previous to the Colonial Legislature) Col. Philip Schuyler moves declaratory resolutions that the Act IV of King George III., imposing duties for raising a revenue in America and depriving His Majesty's subjects in the colonies the right of trial by jury were great grievances, and his resolution is carried by a vote of 7 to 2 by the Q present of the 24 members, many being kept away by the hard- ship of attending at so great a distance, March 3. The Committee of Safety and Correspondence of Albany city and county meet at Richard Cartwright's Inn and select Col. Philip Schuyler, A])raham Yates, Jun., Col. Abraham Ten Broeck, Col. Peter R. Livingston and Walter Livingston the deputies to represent the city and county at the Provincial Congress to be held on April 20th at New York, which is to select dele- gates for tlie next Continental Congress to be held in May at Philadelphia. March 21. Battle of Lexington fought between the British army and the American colonists, eleven miles northwest of Boston in Mid- dlesex county, Massachusetts, the first bloodshed of the Ameri- can Revolution, 800 British soldiers under Colonel Smith hav- ing left Boston the previous night to take the military stores of Concord, the advance under Major Pitcairn confronted at Lex- ington Green by about fifty minute-men under Captain Parker, and this force dispersed with the loss of eight Americans No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 273 1775. killed, the British proceeding to Concord where they are re- pulsed at the Concord bridge by the minute-men, whereupon Colonel Smith orders a retreat, and a running fire is kept up to Charlestown, the American forces in the meantime augmented constantly as they pursue the British along the highroad; the total British loss of the engagements amounting to 273 and of the American colonists 93. history recording the fighting at Concord as the Battle of Concord and of the entire day's engagements as the Battle of Lexington, April 19. Col. Philip Schuyler chosen among the delegates selected to rep- resent the Province of New York in the Continental Congress at Philadelphia in the following May, by New York's Colonial Congress held at New York city, April 20. News of the engagement of the British at Lexington on April 19th reaches Albany and stirs the entire population to action im- mediately, who seem to comprehend that this first bloodshed against the mother country was but the beginning of the great struggle for liberty that had been a cherished idea for some years, and the citizens determine at once that they must act a vigorous part. Accordingly a meeting is held without delay at John J. Lansing's Inn by the sub-committee of Corre- spondence, with Abraham Yates, Jun., acting as the chairman, the result of which gathering was the posting of a notice about the city reading as follows : " Whereas the various ac- counts that have been received of the extraordinary Commo- tions both in the Province of Massachusetts Bay and at New York made it indispensably necessary that the sense of the Citizens should be taken on the line of Conduct they propose to hold in this Critical Juncture, every Person therefore is most earnestly intreated to attend at the market-House in the third Ward (Broadway, near Maiden Lane, in centre of the street) at four o'clock this afternoon to give his Sentiments. It is expected that no Person whatever able to attend will be absent. Secondly. Resolved That the Chairman (Abraham Yates, Jun.,) sign the several Papers relative to this Day's Transaction. Thirdly. Resolved That the following Proposals be read to the Citizens at their intended meeting this after- noon : Are you willing to co-operate with our Brethren in New York and the several Colonies on the Continent in their oppo- sition to the Ministerial Plan now prosecuting against us^ Are you willing to appoint Persons to be Conjointly with others to be appointed by the Several Districts in this County a Com- mittee of Safety, Protection, and Correspondence, with full 274 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. No. 26. 1775. Power to Transact all such matters as they shall conceive may tend to the weal of the American Cause? If yea, who are the Persons you chuse to appoint?" May i. Following the meeting held at the Market-House, Lucas Cassidy is despatched to beat a drum through the streets, and John Os- trander to ring loudly a bell, summoning the inhabitants to the Market-House on No. Market street. The people coming there prove enthusiastic in the cause, and with one accord reply affirmatively to the appeal, whereupon a Committee of Safety, Protection and Correspondence is formed of Jacob Coenraedt Ten Eyck, Henry I. Bogart, Peter Silvester, Henry Wendell, Volckert Pietrus Douw, John Bay, and Gysbert Marselis, of the 1st Ward; John R. Bleecker, Jacob Lansing, Jun., Jacob Cuyler, Henry Bleecker, Robert Yates, Stephen De Lancey and Abra- ham Cuyler, in the 2nd Ward; John H. Ten Eyck, Abraham Ten Broeck, Gerrit Lansingh, Jun., Anthony E. Bratt, Samuel Stringer, Abraham Yates, Jun., and Cornells Van Santvoordt, in the 3rd Ward, May i. The Committee of Safety having been legally formed, it writes to the Boston Committee, at the present seat of war^ as follows : " Gentlemen — While we lament the mournful event which has caused the Blood of our Bretheren in the Massachusetts Bay to fllow, we feel that satisfaction which every honest American must experience at the glorious stand you have made, we have an additional satisfaction from the consequences which we trust will [result] in uniting every American in Sentiments and Bonds which we hope will be indissoluble to our Enemies. This after- noon the Inhabitants of this City convened and unanimously renewed their former agreement that they would co-operate with our Brethren in New York and in the several Colonies on the Continent in their opposition to the Ministerial Plan now prosecuting against us, and also unanimously appointed a Committee of Safety, Protection, and Correspondence, with full power to transact all such matters as they shall conceive may tend to promote the weal of the American Cause. We have the fullest Confidence that every District in this extensive County will follow our Example. On the twenty-second In- stant a Provincial Congress will meet when we have not the least doubt but such effectual aids will be afiforded you, as will teach Tyrants and their Minions that as we were born free, we will live and die so, and transmit that inestimable Blessing to Posterity. Be assured Gentlemen that nothing on our Parts shall be wanting to evince that we are deeply impressed with a No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 275 1775. sense of the necessity of Unanimity, and that we mean to Co- operate with you in this arduous struggle for Liberty to the utmost of our Power." Alay i. The patriots of Albany assemble and organize companies only three days after the announcement of the first hostilities of the Revolution, constituted of i captain, 2 lieutenants, I ensign, 4 sergeants, 4 corporals, i drummer and 51 privates, a total of 64 in each company. The formation as follows : First Ward, 3 companies; ist Company, Capt. John Barclay, Lieuts. John Price and Stephen Van Schaick, Ensign Abraham I. Yates : 2nd Company, Capt. John Williams, Lieuts. Henry Staats and Barent Van Alen, Ensign Henry Hogen ; 3rd Company, Capt. Thomas Bassett, Lieuts. Abraham Eights and Mattheus Viss- cher. Ensign John Hooghkerk. Third W^ard, ist Company, Capt. John Beeckman, Lieuts. Isaac De Freest and Abraham Ten Eyck, Ensign Cornelis Wendell ; 2nd Company, Capt. Harmanus Wendell, Lieuts. William Hun and Peter Ganse- voort, Jr., Ensign Teunis T. Van Vechten, May 4. Volckert P. Douw chosen a delegate to meet in General Congress on the 22nd at New York city. May 5. British surrender their fort at Ticonderoga to Col. Ethan Allen with his 150 undisciplined troops styled the " Green Mountain Boys," he being from henceforth one of the heroes of the Revolution (b. Litchfield, Conn., Jan. 10, 1738; d. Burlington, Vt., Feb. 13, 1789), and this unexpected joyous news gives an impetus to the fighters for liberty. May 10. Two companies of volunteers are despatched at once to the fort at Ticonderoga in order to retain possession of the large number of cannon and other military stores taken by Col. Ethan Allen, May. Volckert Pietrus Douw, the next previous Mayor of Albany, elected Vice-President of the Provincial Congress by 70 present of the 80 delegates, convened at New York city, May 23. The following compact being universally signed by the citizens of Albany : " A General Association agreed to and subscribed by the Members of the Several Committees of the City and County of Albany. — Persuaded that the Salvation of the Rights and Liberties of America depends under God on the firm Union of its Inhabitants in a vigorous prosecution of the Measures neces- sary for its Safety ; and convinced of the necessity of preventing Anarchy and Confusion which attend a Dissolution of the Powers of Government, We, the Freemen, Freeholders, and 276 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1775. Inhabitants of the City and County of Albany, being greatly alarmed at the avowed Design of the Ministry to raise a Rev- enue in America; and shocked by the bloody scene now acting in the Massachusetts Bay, Do in the most Solemn Manner resolve never to become Slaves; and do associate under all the Ties of Religion, Honor and Love to our Country, to adopt and endeavour to carry into Execution whatever Measures may be recommended by the Continental Congress, or resolved upon by our Provincial Convention for the purpose of preserving our Constitution, and opposing the Execution of the several arbi- trary and oppressive Acts of the British Parliament until a Reconciliation between Great Britain and America on Consti- tutional Principles (which we most ardently desire) can be obtained : And that we will in all things follow the Advice of our General Committee respecting the purposes aforesaid, the preservation of Peace and good order and the safety of Indi- viduals and Private Property," May 25. The Provincial Congress, in session at New York, unanimously resolves to recommend Col. Philip Schuyler to the Continental Congress as " the most proper person " in the Colony of New York to be appointed a major-general, June 7. Col. Philip Schuyler and Gen. George Washington appointed a com- mittee of the Constitutional Congress to prepare rules and regu- lations for the government of the army, June 14. Gen. George Washington appointed the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental forces, by the Continental Congress, June 15. The Continental Congress appoints Col. Philip Schuyler of Albany the third major-general of the United Colonies, June 19. Maj.-Gen. Philip Schuyler arrives at New York city to take com- mand of the Anny of the Northern Department, June 25. William Tryon arrives at New York city, having been sent over by the British government to be the Governor of the Province of New York, and receives the Great Seal ; but forthwith writes to the home government that troublous times are ahead and he perceives a decided coolness, as well as noting that no one may move about without a pass, June 25. William Tryon made the Governor of the Province, June 28. Negroes made subject to military duty by Congressional Act. General Washington arrives at Cambridge, Mass., and takes com- mand of the Continental army, July 2. Gov. William Tryon writes to the Earl of Dartmouth in England that he believes the inhabitants of New York city are satisfied with him to a certain extent, and explains the delicacy of his No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLEK. 2// 1775. position as follows : " The general revolt that has taken place in the Colonies has put his Majesty's civil Governors in the most degraded situation, (being) left in the exercise of such feeble executive Powers as suit the present conveniences of the Country, and this dependant on the caprice of a moment. To attempt coercive measures by the civil aid would hold up (the) Government to additional contempt by the exposure of the weakness of the executive and civil Branches. * * * The communications through the Province, and, I understand, through the Continent are stopt. Every traveller must have a Pass from some Committee or some Congress," July 4. The Continental Congress appoints as a committee to treat with the Indians of the Six Nations, either to win them to the cause of the American colonists or to hold them neutral, Maj.-Gen. Philip Schuyler, Alaj. Joseph Hawley, Talbot Francis, Oliver Wolcott and Volckert P. Douw, July 13. The committee appointed in July by the Continental Congress in- vites the Indian sachems to come to Albany for consultation, and a series of conferences is held in the Dutch Church at the foot of Yonkers (State) street, Aug. 15 At one of the conferences with the sachems a member of the Indian Commission for the Northern Department of the United Colo- nies addresses them in the Dutch Church in the following words (as narrated in Documentary Colonial History of New York, Vol. viii, pp. 616-619) • " Brothers, sachems and warriors of the six united nations, we, the delegates from the twelve united provinces now sitting in general congress at Philadelphia, send this speech to you, our brothers. We are sixty-five in number and have been appointed by the people throughout all these provinces and colonies to meet and set together in one great council to consult together for the common good of this land, and to speak and act for them. * * * -^Ye will now tell you of the quarrel between the counselors of King George and the inhabitants and colonies of America. Many of his coun- selors are proud and wicked men. They persuaded the king to break the covenant chain and not to send us any more good speeches. * * * They tell us now that they will slip their hands into our pockets, without asking, as if they were their own pockets, and will take at their pleasure from us our chart- ers, * * * oyj. plantations, our houses and goods, when- ever they please, without asking our permission. * * * We desire that you will hear and receive what we have already told 278 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1775. you, and that you will now open a good ear and listen to what we shall further say to you. This is a family quarrel between us and Old Enoland. You Indians are not concerned in it. We do not want you to take up the hatchet against the king's troops. We desire that you remain at home and join neither party, but keep the hatchet deeply buried. * * * We are now twelve colonies united as one hand. Brothers, this is our union belt. By this belt we, the twelve united colonies, renew the old covenant chain by which our forefathers in their great wisdom thought proper to bind us and you our brothers of the six nations together when they first landed at this place. If any of the links of this great chain should have received any rust, we now brighten it, and make it shine like silver." August. Men straggling into the city from all over to form the Army of the North under Gen. Philip Schuyler ; but poorly prepared to con- stitute a fighting army, Aug. 20. Lieut. -Col. Philip Van Cortlandt arrives at Albany, Aug. 26. Lieut. -Col. Philip Van Cortlandt of the 4th N. Y. Regiment, Dutchess Co., describes graphically in a letter written from Albany the miserable outfits of the soldiers quartered here, as follows : " Dear Sir : — Agreeable to verbal orders received from Col [James] Holmes [of the Fourth Reg't], when last in New York, I made all the dispatch in my power to this place, where I arrived the 26th inst., finding Capt. Henry B. Livingston with his company in a small house in town. He wants many things — such as shoes, stockings, shirts, under cloths, haversacks and cash, having advanced all himself that has been paid his men as yet. The day I arrived came up the following captains with their companies : Capt. Herrick, Capt. Palmer, Capt. Horton and Capt. jNIills — all without blankets, except Capt. David Palmer — many of the men wanting shirts, shoes stockings, under cloths, and in short without any thing- fit for a soldier, except a uniform coat, and not more than thirty guns with four companies fit for service. They are now on board of the small boats that brought them up, having no place for them to go into, as there is not one tent that I can find for our battalion ; and three companies without blankets, and none to be had at this place. I do not know how to act, or what to do with them. They began to ask for cash and better lodgings, being much crowded in the small boats in which I am obliged to keep them. I this morning made application to the committee of Albany, who will do all in their power for me. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER, 2/9 1775. which I believe, is but very little. I shall be much obliged to the Honourable Congress to send me with all convenient speed, arms, blankets, tents, shoes, stockings, haversacks, and cash by all means. I want to be going forward, where, by what I can learn, we shall be wanting if we can go soon, or not at all. The men say, ' give us guns, blankets, tents, &c., and we'll fig';t the devil himself, but do not keep us here in market-boats, as though we were a parcel of slieep or calves.' In short nothing can give me more pleasure than the arrival of the aforesaid articles." Aug. 28. Jlie chairman of the Albany committee encloses the letter of Lieut. - Col. F. Van Cortlandt in one of his to Peter Van Brugh Liv- ingston,, President of the Provincial Congress sitting in New York, writing as follows : " We expected when the army was once organized, we should not be so frequently called upon about matters not in our province. But the situation of Col. Van Cortlandt, and the men under his command, in a meas- ure obliges us to give him all the assistance in our power — not, however, that it is to be made a precedent of. The en- closed letter from Col. Van Cortlandt will show you the posture he is in, and the necessity of a speedy relief." Aug. 29. Col. (joose Van Schaick, in command of the 2nd N. Y. Regiment (Albany county militia) writes to the Provincial Congress that General Schuyler has stationed him at Albany in order to for- ward troops that arrive to Ticonderoga, and after describing how blankets and other essentials had to be furnished to Col. James Clinton's 3rd N. Y. Regiment, adds : " I should ever accuse myself of inhumanity and want of love to my country, should I be backward in giving you a true account of the situa- tion and distress of these companies, when I consider how much they are wanted at the forts above. I therefore look up to you, and beg that you will, without delay, send up such or so many arms, tents, blankets and other necessaries, as will supply those companies so that they may be forwarded with the greatest dispatch. * * ='' I am very happy, however, to inform you that notwithstanding the clamours and discontents of my men at first, there are at present nine of my companies up at Ticon- deroga, with the other two field officers (Lieut. -Col. Peter Yates and Major Peter Ganesvoort, Jun.) in actual service, and the last will march to-morrow." Aug. 29. The hospital and barracks up to this time filled with the Indians attending the conferences, the barns about the town too loaded with crops to accommodate any men, and the city crowded with a numerous concourse of strange people, but now the Indians 28o ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. No. 26. 1775. return to their castles bearing- presents in order to maintain friendly relations between the tribes and the colonists, Aug. 30. Gen. Richard Montgomery proceeds from Albany on his invasion of Canada, his main object being the capture of Montreal, August. Gen. Philip Schuyler receives orders to invade Canada with the Army of the Northern Department, September, An epidemic of disease among the Indians gives opportunity to the British to lead them to believe that the Great Spirit was scourg- ing them for not taking part with King George, as they had been taught to " fear God and honor the King;" this deceptive suggestion actually causing a deflection to the British among some tribes, Sept. 3. General Schuyler ill, embarks on a boat upon which he had im- provised a bed, and has himself taken to Isle aux Noix, 12 miles south of St. John's, where, in a weak condition, he joins Gen. Richard Montgomery's expedition, Sept. 5. General Montgomery writes to his wife (Janet, the eldest child of Chancellor Robert R. Livingston, of Clermont) at their Rhine- beck farm : " Poor Schuyler is in so miserable a state of health as to make him an object of compassion," September. General Montgomery places St. John's, the fort protecting Montreal from invasion from the south, in a state of siege, Sept. 14. General Schuyler leaves General Montgomery and returns south- ward to the fort at Ticonderoga, Sept. 18. General Schuyler writes to General Washington : " I find myself much better, as the fever has left me, and hope soon to return where I ought and wish to be, unless a barbarous relapse should dash the cup of hope from my lips," Sept. 20. Despite his malarial illness, caused by unhealthy living in the forests without blankets or shelter at a rainy season. General Schuyler busily engages in collecting and forwarding supplies to the army marching under Montgomery to capture Montreal, Sept. 22, General Schuyler writes to the Continental Congress : " The vexa- tion of spirit under which I labor that a barborous complication of disorders should prevent me from reaping those laurels for which I have so unweariedly wrought, since I was honored with this command, the anxiety of mind I have suffered since my arrival here lest the army should starve, occasioned by a scandalous want of subordination and inattention to mv orders, in some of the officers that I left to command at the different posts ; the vast variety of disagreeable and vexatious incidents that almost every hour arise in some department or other, not No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 281 1775. only retard my cure, but have put me considerably back for some days past. If Job had been a general in my situation his memory had not been so famous for patience. But the glorious end which we have in view, and which I have a confident hope will be attained, will atone for all." Sept. 25. General Montgomery writes to his wife : " General Schuyler's return to Ticonderoga has been a most fortunate affair. We should most certainly have been obliged to return half starved, and to leave the unfortunate Canadians to take care of themselves." September. General Montgomery writes to General Schuyler : " Your residence at Ticonderoga has probably enabled us to keep our ground. How much do the public owe you for your attention and activity." September. General Schuyler writes to the Provincial Congress : " My disorders have taken such deep root, that I now begin to have little hope of recovery so as to take an active part in the future operations of the campaign. I hope, however, that I shall not be obliged to leave this place, unhealthy and unfavorable to my recovery as it is, lest it should involve General Montgomery in irremedi- able inconveniences." October. Charter election, Common Council : Peter W. Yates, Gerrit Van Sante, I. Guysbert G. Marselis, John Jacob Beeckman, II. Thomas Hun, John TenBroeck. HI. This board suspended action, during war, until new board was elected (on April 17, 1778; from April 18, 1776), October. General Montgomery, in a discouraged spirit, writes repeatedly dur- ing the month to General Schuyler about the insubordination of his troops, and finally : " I am exceedingly well pleased to see General Wooster here, both for the advantage of his service and upon my own account. For I must earnestly request to be suffered to retire, should matters stand on such a footing this winter as to permit me to go off with honor. I have not talents nor temper for such a command. * * * j y^{\\ bear it for a short time, but I cannot stand it long." Oct. 31. General Schuyler informs the Congress of General Montgomery's intentions to resign should he be able to do so with honor, because of insubordination of officers, and adds : '' My senti- ments exactly coincide with his. I shall, with him, do every- thing in my power to put a finishing stroke to the campaign. This done, I must beg leave to retire." November. St. John's, the fort protecting Montreal to the south, surrenders to General Montgomery after a siege of 50 days, Nov. 3. 282 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1775. i\ umbers of General Montg-omery's soldiers, disliking a winter campaign, the sleeping without tents amid snow in the forests among wild beasts, refuse to go further, giving as excuse homesickness, their health and expiration of enlistment, the latter being a very common plea because of the uncertainty among an army of its poor construction to determine when enlistments had been made and for what term, and some he discharges as evil influences and being mutinous ; but by promising to discharge them at Montreal he holds most of his army together, Nov. 5. General Schuyler, at Ticonderoga, experiences difficulty in forward- ing troops, writing from there : " About three hundred of the troops raised in Connecticut passed here within a few days. An unhappy homesickness prevails. These all came down as invalids, not one willing to re-engage for the winter's service ; and unable to get any w^ork done by them, I discharged them en groupe. Of all the specifics ever invented for any there is none so efficacious as a discharge for this prevailing disorder. No sooner was it administered but it perfected the cure of nine out of ten ; who, refusing to wait for boats to go by way of Lake George, slung their heavy packs, crossed the lake at this place, and undertook a march of two hundred miles with the greatest good will and alacrity." November. Montreal falls to Gen. Richard Montgomery, who had been prose- cuting the invasion of Canada with Schuyler since August, Nov. 12. General Schuyler writes his last letter to General Montgomery be- fore that officer's death : " Adieu, my dear sir ; may I have the pleasure soon to announce another of your victories, and after- wards that of embracing you.'' November. General Montgomery writes to General Schuyler : " An affair hap- pened here yesterday which had very near sent me home. A number of officers presumed to remonstrate against the in- dulgence I had given some of the officers of the King's troops. Such an insult I could not bear, and immediately resigned. However, they have to-day qualified it by such an apology as puts it in my power to resume command with some propriety, and I have promised to bury it in oblivion." Nov. 24. Generals Montgomery and Arnold resolve to storm the works of yuebec from opposite sides of the town at night, as General Carleton would not come out to fight, Dec. 30. At 2 o'clock in the morning, amidst a driving snowstorm, Mont- gomery and Arnold storm Quebec, during which severe en- No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 283 1775-1776. gagement Arnold wounded and Montgomery's body found at daybreak, pierced by three bullets, between the corpses of his aides, MacPherson and Cheeseman, nearly hidden in the snow, and General Carleton, who had been Montgomery's fellow- officer in Wolfe's army, orders his friend's body buried within the walls, Dec. 31. 1776. Gen. Philip Schuyler feels deeply the blow of the death of his intimate friend and co-fighter. Gen. Richard Montgomery, shot at Ouebec in the early morning of December 31st, and for- warding the sad intelligence to General Washington, says : " I wish I had no occasion to send my dear general the enclosed melancholy accounts. My amiable friend, the gallant Mont- gomery, is no more ! The brave Arnold is wounded, and we have met with a very severe shock in an unsuccessful attempt on Ouebec. May Heaven be graciously pleased to terminate the misfortune here. I tremble for our people in Canada." January. General Schuyler is ordered to disarm the Tories at Johnson Hall, dispossessing them of all military stores, and he accomplishes this with 2,000 men, January. Preaching in the English tongue commenced in the Dutch Re- formed Church, January. Ann Lee (born at Manchester, Eng., in 1736) takes up her residence in the Niskayuna woods to the west of the city, and founds the Shaker settlement, having arrived here the previous year. Volckert P. Douw, as Indian Commissioner, allots the deputies of the seven tribes of Canadian Indians, who came on from Onon- daga, where they attended the meeting of the Six Nations, each I pair of shoes, i pair of buckles and a hat, they being in sore need of clothing, February Continental Congress orders General Schuyler to remain at Albany and keep the army General Montgomery had under him in Canada well supplied with stores, March. British compelled by General Washington to evacuate Boston, March 17. Several citizens, among them the Mayor, celebrate the birthday of King George III., as had been customary in the city, by a banquet of a private nature at Cartwright's Inn, and are set 284 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1776. upon by those holding opposite views on the propriety of the occasion. June 4. The handsome swinging sign outside the King's Arms Tavern, northwest corner of Green and Beaver streets, forced from its hinges by patriots, carried to Yonkers (State) street and there burned, June. Col. Goose A'an Schaick, commanding the 5th N. Y. Regiment, es- tablishes detachments between Lake Champlain and Albany, June. The Declaration of Independence signed at Philadelphia, among those affixing their signatures being Philip Livingston of Albany, born at the northwest corner of State and Pearl streets, on Jan. 15, 1716, and the news is sent at once by post-riders to the various Provincial committees that the inhabitants of the country may hear and rejoice, July 4. New York Provincial Congress assembles at White Plains, N. Y., to act on the Declaration of Independence and at once change the title of the Province of New York to State of New York, July 9. Delegates Matthew Adgate, Robert Yates and Abraham Yates, Jun., at the Provincial Congress in session at White Plains, forward a transcription of the Declaration of Independence to the Com- mittee of Correspondence at Albany, July 14. The Albany Committee of Correspondence on receiving the copy of the Declaration of Independence, meets at the City Hall (a brick building three stories high, two windows on either side of the central door, and two windows deep, surmounted by a cupola, at the northeast corner of South Market street (Broad- way) and Hudson (avenue) street and there passes the fol- lowing resolution : " Resolved that the Declaration of Inde- pendence be published and declared in this City to-morrow at Eleven O'Clock at this place, and that Colonel V an Schaick be requested to order the Continental Troops in this City to appear under arms at the place aforesaid, and Farther that the Captains of the several Militia .Companies in this City be requested to warn the Persons belonging to their respective Companies to appear at the place aforesaid." July 18. The Declaration of Independence is read aloud at the City Hall to an immense throng, who crowded Market street in both direc- tions and Hudson street down to the river, the inhabitants and Continental troopers receiving its message with satisfactory ex- pressions, and their fervor, aroused by the deep interest in the No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 285 1776. nation's vital matter, was such as to be comparable with the estimate placed by the future century on the act giving birth to a new country, the applause, sincerity of expression and a mingling of hilarity borne of reliance and bravery, being such as the ancient city had never before witnessed, July 19. The Provincial Congress now known as the Convention of Repre- sentatives of the State of New York, having cast off the yoke of a home country and all semblance of a colony, July 20. At the Convention of Representatives a committee is appointed to draft a state constitution, consisting of the following : John Jay, John Sloss Hobart, William Smith, William Duer, Gouverneur Morris, Robert R. Livingston (the Chancellor), John Broome, John IMorin Scott, Abraham Yates, Jun. (ex-Mayor of Albany), Henry Wisner, Sen., Samuel Townsend, Charle:^ DeWitt, and Robert Yates, James Duane being added later, Aug. I. Gen. Schuyler finding that half the men at Crown Point were sick and that a large number were also withdrawn in order to row these to the hospital at Fort George, at the southern end of Lake George, called a council of his officers, and it was agreed that as Crown Point was a low and insalubrious situation, lack- ing buildings of any sort and the men sleeping under brush huts, the wisest course was to move to the higher land of Ticonderoga, where the fortress was more healthily situated. It seemed best to them then, and likewise proved so in the end. The men had been exposed to the hot sun of the summer there, living on raw salt pork, often rancid, and hard biscuit. Some of the lesser officers, all New England men and not liking those of another colony, held a separate council, passing resolutions that by abandoning Crown Point the lake was left open to the enemy. These they sent to officers of Washington's army, signed by them, and General Washington, learning but one side of the case, expressed his disapproval. Schuyler became nettled by his inferior officers passing censure upon several of those above them, including Arnold, Gates and himself, and he writes to the Congress requesting a court of inquiry, August. Hearing of no compliance with his request for a searching inquiry by Congress, Gen. Schuyler resigns, stating that by so doing it was not his intention to elude an inquiry ; but " on the con- trary, it is a duty I owe to myself, to my family and to the respectable Congress of this State, by whose recommendation, unsolicited by me, Congress, I believe, was induced to honor 286 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1776. me with a command, that I should exculpate myself from the many odious charges with which the country resounds to my prejudice. I trust I shall be able fully to do it, to the confusion of my enemies and their abettors. But, aggrieved as I am, my countrymen will find that I shall not be influenced by any unbecoming resentment, but that I will steadily persevere to fulfill the duties of a good citizen, and try to promote the weal of my native country by every effort in my power, Sept. 14. Cadwallader Colden, who had been appointed and began his term of office as lieutenant-governor in 1774 (b. Ireland, Feb. 17, 1688. N. S.), dies, Sept. 21. Congress acts on General Schuyler's resignation in this manner: " That the President write to General Schuyler and inform him that Congress cannot consent, during the present situation of their affairs, to accept of his resignation, but request that he continue the command that he now holds; that he be assured that the aspersions which his enemies have thrown out against his character have had no influence upon the minds of the mem- bers of this house who are fully satisfied of his attachment to the cause of freedom, and are willing to bear their testimony of the many services which he has rendered to his country ; and that, in order eflfectually to put calumny to silence, they will, at an early day, appoint a committee of their own body to inquire fully into his conduct, which they trust will establish his repu- tation in the opinion of all good men." Oct. 2. Charter election did not take place this year because of the war with Gt. Britain, Oct. 14. Anxious to bring about an inquiry as to his acts. General Schuyler had often requested permission to call upon the Congress, and hears from General Washington : " The situation of the north- ern army being at this juncture extremely critical, and your services in that department of the highest use and importance, the Congress wish for a continuance of your influence and abili- ties on behalf of your country. They have, however, agreeably to your request, consented that you should repair to this city whenever, in your opinion, the service wull admit of your ab- sence." November. General Schuyler desired to visit the Congress at Philadelphia dur- ing the fall in order to explain matters ; but had found too much to occupy him, and finally writes : " IN'Iuch as I wish to do my- self the honor to pay my respects to Congress, yet so much is to be done here, and no other general officer in the department, that it would not be prudent for me to quit in this conjuncture." December. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELLS CUYLER. 287 1777. 1777. General Schuyler writes to George Clinton : " I am closely engaged in preparation for the next campaign, and shall hope that if we can be furnished with men, cannon and ammunition, that the enemy will not be able to penetrate by the north." January. General Gates spending much time at Philadelphia seeking by the help of his New England friends in the Congress to better his grade as officer, January. General Schuyler had secured the services of Dr. Samuel Stringer of Albany to help among the numerous sick cases at Crown Point, and the doctor had volunteered to go, supplying much medicine at his own expense. Schuyler later appointed him as medical director. He was much surprised when a note of dis- missal arrived at the fort from Philadelphia, stating no reasons. Whereupon he expresses his sincere sympathy for the patriotic doctor, using this phrase in a letter he sends to the Congress: "As Dr. Stringer had my recommendation to the office he has sustained, perhaps it was a compliment due to me that I should have been advised of the reasons for his dismissal." Feb. 4. The friends of General Gates grasped this letter as an opportunity to bring censure upon Schuyler, pointing out that he had criti- cized the acts of the Congress, and at a session when the New York delegates were absent passed the following resolution which they trusted would bring about Schuyler's resignation and the elevating of General Gates : " Resolved, That as Con- gress proceeded to the dismission of Doctor Stringer, upon rea- sons satisfactory to themselves, General Schuyler ought to have known it to be his duty to have acquiesced therein. That the suggestion in General Schuyler's letter to Congress, that it was a compliment due to him to have advised him of the reasons of Dr. Stringer's dismission, is highly derogatory to the honor of Congress ; and that the President be desired to acquaint General Schuyler that it is expected his letters, for the future, be written in a style more suitable to the dignity of the representative body of these free and independent states, and to his own character as their officer. Resolved, that it is altogether improper and inconsistent with the dignity of this Congress to interfere in disputes subsisting among the officers of the army ; which ought to be settled, unless they can be otherwise accommodated, in a court-martial, agreeably to the rules of the army, and that the 288 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. No. 26. 1777. expression in General Schuyler's letter of the 4th of February, that he confidently expected Congress would have done him that justice, which it was in their power to give, and which he humbly conceives they ought to have done, were, to say the least, ill advised and highly indecent." February. General Gates directed to go to Ticonderoga and to employ under him such officers as he thinks proper, being virtually given command of the Army of the Northern Department, if not offi- cially designated such. General Schuyler seeks vindication and desiring to meet his accusers face to face at Philadelphia, proceeds to Kingston where the New York convention is in session ; there he explains the situa- tion and they appoint him a delegate to the Continental Con- gress, ATarch. The New York convention of Representatives receive the draft of the new state constitution as framed by the special committee appointed Aug. 1, 1776, and discuss its provisions, March 12. George Clinton ( later becoming New York state's first governor) appointed a United States brigadier-general, March 25. The convention adopts the state constitution at Kingston, April 20. George Clinton ( b. July 26, 1739, at Little Britain, Ulster Co., ^N. Y., the son of Charles Clinton) elected the first Governor of 'New York, April 21. As a member of the Continental Congress, General Schuyler arrives at Philadelphia, and seeks the identity of those who had been spreading malicious reports as well as operating against him, but found this difficult as the members generally gave him a cordial greeting, the result of which he describes in a letter to his secretary. Colonel Richard Varick, telling him " that there were no comjilaints against me, and they have never believed in any of the malicious reports propagated to my disadvantage. They have, however, gone too far, and all that stands on their journals injurious to me must be expunged or I quit the ser- vice." April. The Congress appoints a committee of one delegate from each state to consider Schuyler's case, consisting of Messrs. Thornton, Lovell, Ellery, Wolcott, Duer, Elmer, Clymer, Sykes, W. Smith, Page, Burke, Hayward, Brownson, and to them he recites the entire story of his command, April. The Continental Congress withdraws the resolution of censure, passed because of the letter Schuyler had written to it on Febru- ary 4th, and officially informs him that that august body " Now CO , \6 3 « rt ^ ^ 03 tn C c o . UJ 6 C *" CO CO '^ \~ 1-J CU •o O -a c a X o c« c o p t^ 1) 4J o H ^ 6 o s P ^ 01 >^ >. H "o rz^ > >i ^ O p 3 s >^ E 0; < U < o H CO •■; t^ _ .ti M 3 No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 289 1777. entertain the same favorable sentiments concerning him that they had entertained before that letter (of Feb. 4th) had been received," and further vindication is found in the report of the Board of Treasury, which had examined his accounts upon his solicitation, stating he is clear " of all demands of the United States against him." April. Report is made to the Congress by the special committee that com- pletely exonerates Schuyler, as follows : " Resolved, That Albany, Ticonderoga, Fort Stanwix and their dependencies be henceforward considered as forming the Northern Department, and that Major-General Schuyler be directed forthwith to pro- ceed to the Northern Department and to take command there." May 22. Lovell, who had been an adherent of General Gates to forward his cause before the Congress, perceives the uselessness of further effort, and informs him by letter : " Misconception of past re- solves and consequent jealousies have produced a definition of the Northern Department, and General Schuyler is ordered to take command of it." May 22. General Burgoyne arrives from England at Quebec, under strict orders to march on Albany and not to deviate from this course much as he had hoped would be preferable from certain plans he had conceived and laid before the home government, his transports landing 8,000 men, mostly English and German trained veterans, May. General Schuyler returns to Albany, again in full command of the Department of the Northern Army, June 8. General Schuyler learns that the supplies in the northern part of the state, while General Gates was supposedly supervising affairs, had been greatly exhausted instead of being built up in prepara- tion for the expected invasion of Burgoyne, for Gates had been either at Albany or negotiating at Philadelphia for control of the highest position in the department, held by Schuyler, June 10. The capture of a British spy discovers to General Schuyler the first definite information of the British plans, that General Burgoyne, then at Quebec, intended to attack New York province by way of Lake Champlain. while Sir John Johnson with an army of Canadians and Mohawks descends the Mohawk valley to join Burgoyne near Albany. June 15. Burgoyne's army concentrates at St. John's fort, located at the northern end of Lake Champlain, and 400 Indians join with him, June 18. 290 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. The Congress, sitting at Philadelphia, informed by Roger Sherman (Connecticnt's delegate) that General Gates waits at the door for admittance. William Paca inf|uires, " For what purpose?" Sherman replies, " To communicate intelligence of importance." William Duer describes the tumultuous scene, wrought of jeal- ousy of Gates over Schuyler's position, as follows, he being a delegate and present : " The intelligence he communicated was that the Indians were extremely friendly, much delighted with seeing French officers in our service^ and other commonplace stuff. * * '•' Having thus gone through the osrensible part of the plan, he took out of his pocket some scraps of papers con- taining a narrative of his birth, parentage, and education, life, character, and behavior. He informed the House that he had quitted an easy and happy life to enter their service, from a pure 2eal for the liberties of America ; that he had strenuously ex- erted himself in its defence ; that in some time in May last he was appointed to a command in the northern department, and a few days since, without having given any cause of offence, with- out accusation, without trial, without hearing, witliout notice, he had received a resolution by which he was in a most dis- graceful manner superseded in his command. Here his oration became warm, and contained many reflections upon Congress, and malicious insinuations against Mr. Duane, whose name he mentioned, and related some conversation, which he said had passed between him and that gentleman on his way to Albany. Here Mr. Duane rose, and addressing himself to the President, hoped that the General would observe order, and cease any per- sonal applications, as he could not, in Congress, enter into any controversy with him on the subject of any former conversa- tion. Mr. Paca caught the fire, and immediately moved that the General be ordered to withdraw. I seconded the motion, observing that the conduct of the General was unbecoming the House to endure, and himself to be guilty of. Mr. Jerry Dyson, Mr. Sherman and some others of his eastern friends rose, and endeavored to palliate his conduct and to oppose his withdraw- ing; on this Mr. Middleton, Mr. Burke, Colonel Harrison and two or three others arose, and there was a general clamor in the House that he should immediately withdraw. All this while the General stood upon the floor, and interposed several times in the debates which arose on this subject; however, the clamor increasing, he withdrew. * * * The want of candor in Mr. Sherman, who asked for his admittance on the pretence of his No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 29! 1777. giving the House intelligence, was much inveighed against, but he bore it all with a true Connecticut stoicism. Congress at length came to the determination that General Gates should not again be admitted to the floor, but that he should be informed that Congress was ready and willing to hear, by w^ay of memo- rial, any grievances which he had to complain of. Here this matter ended. Not, as you will observe, to his credit or ad- vantage. It is impossible for me to give you an idea of the unhappy figure which G. G. made on this occasion. His man- ner was ungracious, and totally devoid of all dignity ; his de- livery was incoherent and interrupted with frequent chasms, in which he was peering over his scattered notes ; and the tenor of his discourse was a compound of vanity, folly and rudeness. I can assure you that notwithstanding his conduct has been such as to have eradicated from my mind every sentiment of respect and esteem for him, I felt for him as a man, and for the honor of human nature wished him to withdraw before he had plunged himself into utter contempt." June i8. General Schuyler arrives at Ticonderoga and inspects the troops and the defences, the two forts at either side of the passage connecting Lake George with Lake Champlain, the one taken by Ethan Allen from the British on May lo, 1775, and the other a star fort, built under Schuyler's orders in 1776, the two connected by a floating bridge, composed of heavy timbers chained end to end, 1,200 feet long, supported by 22 sunken piers. While in defending the location he had men sufficient to man these two forts he had not enough to garrison Sugar Loaf Hill and Mount Hope in the immediate vicinity, June 20. General Schuyler, at Albany, arranging for the defence of this city from the anticipated John Johnson expedition through the Mohawk valley, despatches messengers to General Washing- ton and the governors of Connecticut. IMassachusetts and New Hampshire, also to the Committees of Berkshire and of New York city, imploring re-inforcements to be sent to the northern part of the state, as the enemy was coming, June 27. General Schuyler receives word from Major-General St. Clair, at Ticonderoga, that the British are advancing southward. Gen- eral Burgoyne's army then ascending Lake Champlain on its way to Ticonderoga, June 27. Burgoyne's army having been moved in boats from St. John's fort to Crown Point, is there reviewed by him, his address to his men ending thus : " This army must not retreat," and he begins the march to Ticonderoga, another step towards Albany, June 2^. 292 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. General Washington writes to General Schuyler that he is endeavor- ing to '' keep General Howe below the Highlands," lest the British army ascend the Hudson to Albany, and the best he could do at this time to help the Northern army is to order some troops, then at Peekskill, to march to Albany, July 2. Brigadier-General George Clinton is elected the first Governor of New York state to carry out the provisions of the new con- stitution, July 3. General Heath writes to General Washington that General Bur- goynre is within three n-^iles of Ticonderoga, and .that the British are about to test their strength against the Americans, Jwiy 3- General Phillips, of the British forces, surveys Sugar Loaf Hill, less than a mile south of Ticonderoga and 600 feet high, saying to a brother ofificer, " Where a goat can go, a man can go, and where a man can go, he can haul up a gun," realizing that if he can place cannon there he can command the situation against the Americans in the two forts on the lower land, accordingly that night he places a battery on the top of Sugar Loaf Hill, renaming it then Mount Defiance, Ji-dy 4. Looking upward at daybreak from their two forts on either side of the narrow passage connecting Lakes George and Champlain. the American army beholds with great dismay the British artillery frov/ning down upon their position, their location safe from assault on the level but as an open book before the position the British had acquired upon Sugar Loaf Hill, and to remain an}^ time meant extermination in a death trap, so in order to save his army General St. Clair follows the only course consistent, that of slipping out and making a very quick march southward, thus to render the elevated position of the British no advantage over their own, July 5. General Schuyler impatiently awaits at Albany the Peekskill rein- forcements that General Washington had promised, to take them to Lake Champlain, and having sent sloops down the river in search of them, writes to the Congress : " If they do not arrive by to-morrow, I shall go on without them and do the best I can with the militia." July 5. General St. Clair having no boats with which to convey his army southward by the way of Lake George, strikes southeasterly through the forests and across mountains of wild underbrush and impenetrable woods ; but his rear guard is attacked by General Frazer and his 1,000 men at Hubbardton, east of Lake FORT TICONDEROGA. Scene of conflict between Samuel Champlain and the Mohawks, July 30, 1609. Built by the French under Baron Dieskau in 1755-6, and named Fort Carillon. Gen. Aber- crombie defeated here by Montcalm, July 8, 1758. Lord Amherst took it from the French, July 26, 1759. Americans evacuated it to Burgoyne, July 5, 1777. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 293 1777. George, and just as the Americans are beating them back, General Riedesel arrives with his Hessian troops, so that the Americans retreat, leaving 300 killed and wounded, July 6. The expected troops from Peekskill not arriving at Albany, General Schuyler departs without them for Ticonderoga, and when between Saratoga and Stillwater meets Colonel Hay, bearing the news that General St. Clair had evacuated Ticonderoga, but he does not know whither he was now proceeding, July 7. While Generals Frazer and Riedesel pursue General St. Clair along the land to the east of Lake George, Burgoyne advances south- ward on that lake, July 8. Brig.-Gen. George Clinton officially announced Governor of New York state by the convention, July 9. Burgoyne's army only 20 miles behind General St. Clair's, which is hurrying southward, making for Fort Edward, July 10. General Schuyler continues northward and joins General St. Clair at Fort Edward, July 12. Burgoyne at Skeensborough, east of Lake George, approaching Fort George, July 14. General Schuyler realizing the great disadvantage he is placed in if required to protect Albany from the army of Burgoyne, and wondering whether those at Albany and at the seat of the nation, the Congress, are truly aware of the frightful conditions, writes to Colonel Lewis, deputy quartermaster-general at Albany that the citizens here must at once supply the necessities and urges that " recourse must therefore be had to the com- mittee, begging their interposition to collect such lead as is in the city ; the lead windows and weights may, perhaps, afford a supply for the present. As soon as it is collected, Mr. Rens- selaer will have it made- into ball, and send it up without a moment's delay. Should a wagon be sent off with one box, as soon as it is ready it must be pushed off; also all the buck shot." July. If at all needful, in the face of remark by any historian that Schuyler was too fond of retreating (as a dispute of this nature was aroused a full month later by Gates) or of any imputation of lack of courage, the letter written at this time by him, a month previous to a retreat, must show he imposed with reason the condition of something like adequate aid by the government before he thought it safe or proper to meet such a powerful army as Burgoyne's, and this letter to General Washington, in part, reads : '"' Desertion prevails and disease gains ground ; 294 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. No. 26. 1777. nor is it to be wondered at, for we have neither tents, houses, barns, boards, or any shelter except a little brush ; every rain that falls, and we have it in .si'reat abundance almost every day, wets the men to tlie skin. We are besides in great want of every kind of necessities, provisions excepted. Camp kettles we have so few, that we cannot afford one to 20 men." July. At this time the friends of (lates particularly active in urging the Congress that he be given charge of the Northern Army, all the New Englanders spitefully decrying the actions of the various New York officers, and loth to send their men into another colony to fight under men of the place whither they go and reaping battles for the credit of officers not of their own state, the talk going so far as to suggest that both St. Clair and Schuyler were traitors, even Adams voicing the sentiment that no victories could be won until they had shot an of^cer or two, whereas when the matter was later considered in the light of facts it was shown that the Congress had not sent an army of size to man the mountains at the outlet of Lake George (Mount Defiance) and the enemy simply took advan- tage of this, July 15. While it was a definite fact that Burgoyne's army numbered between eight and nine thousand, five hundred being Indians, the " re- turn " of the American brigade of Albany County militia under Brig. -Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck, made this day at Fort Ed- ward, shows 1,755 men, July 18. General Washington on hearing of the disaster at Ticonderoga, writes to General Schuyler : " I will not condemn or even pass a censure upon any officer unheard ; but I think it a duty which General St. Clair owes to his own character to insist upon an opportunity of giving- the reasons for his sudden evacuation of a post which, but a few days before, he, by his own letters, thought tenable, at least for a while." July 18. General Burgoyne makes his headquarters at Fort Edward with 8,000 men and 500 Indians, slowly proceeding southward, J"iy 25- Oeneral Schuyler had made it difficult for lUirgoyne to move with any rapidity, not so much as two miles a day, busying himself with the policy of delaying the enemy all possible, that prepara- tions might be made to meet him eft'ectually before long, and his object was to make it hard for Burgoyne to obtain supplies the further he went from his base in Canada. With this end in view he had burned Fort George at the head of the lake and ori*>'*''3 WAR ^lAP OF REVOLUTION. It shows the route followed by Burgoyne's army on its march from Montreal to Albany, and location of battles at Forts Ticonderoga, George, Edward, Ann, and Stanwix, Oriskany and Bemis Heights. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. 295 1777. Fort Anne to the southeast, having moved their stores first to Fort Edward, the first two named being hardly more than forti- fied storehouses, and although Fort Edward was the most important of the three it was in no wise defencible against an army like Burgoyne's, for when the Marquis de Chastellux visited it soon after he reported that it could be taken with 500 men and four guns; but the news that he had burned them was received at Philadelphia with blame, some saying he had given up two more forts to the British, whereas he had harbored their stores elsewhere and the British found the forts empty. Schuyler had sent out a thousand men to fell trees that would fall across the roads and navigable streams, in fact with trunks and branches intersecting they formed a tangle that men could not penetrate, likewise choking the creeks and destroying the bridges across them. So well did he carry out his plans that although the British had taken only four days to come from Ticonderoga to the head of the lake (Caldwell), a distance of 40 miles, the next twenty days were required to proceed the 20 miles to Fort Edward, and these twenty days were of vast importance in collecting an army that could cope with Burgoyne ere it came to Albany, July. General Schuyler tells General Washington of the need of assistance, men and ammunition, in these words : " I have indeed written to Springfield for the cannon which were there. But the answer I got was that they ^ere all ordered another way. I have also written to Boston, not that I expect anything will be sent me, but that I may stand justified; for I have never yet been able to get much of anything from there. In this situation I can only look up to your Excellency for relief ; and permit me to entreat you to send me a re-enforcement of troops and such a supply of artillery, ammunition, and every other necessary (except provisions and powder) which an army ought to have, if it can possibly be spared." July- General Washington replied that to detach any considerable number of men from his own army would be to weaken himself too much, as he is occupied with thwarting General Howe's plans of a serious invasion ; but will help him when possible, July. Jane McCrea proves a martyr by advancing the American cause by the seemingly small incident in time of war, the sacrificing of one life and that of a mere country girl, far more than could the appeals of Schuyler or even of General Washington, foi help through New England troops to co-operate with the Nev 296 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. York militia. Burgoyne had had a great disHke of Indians as allies, although ordered by the home country to employ them, and had issued orders to them at the start that they were to fight after the method of civilized nations, an argument that he was roundly ridiculed about, and this alliance proves a boomerang. Panther, a chief, with his marauding band cap- tures Jane McCrea, the young daughter of a Scotch clergyman, near Fort Edward, and she was visiting at the home of Mrs. McNeil : Both women were captured by the Indians and were being taken to the British camp when pursued by Americans. The two women become separated and the elder woman arrives in safety; but Jane McCrea does not and her safety causes alarm as she was engaged to a Tory officer in the British army, July 27. Panther, the Indian chief, comes into the British camp dangling the scalp of a woman who had long hair and expects to be ap- plauded for his bravery and activity in taking the life of an enemy; but Mrs. McNeil recognizes it as the hair of her dear friend, Jeanie McCrea and a search in the forest reveals this to be only too true, for they find her body pierced by three bullets, July 28. General Burgoyne issues a strict order that no party of Indians shall pass out of the lines unless accompanied by a British officer to preserve orderly warfare. The Indian allies resent the order, load themselves with all the provisions they can carry and decamp into the Adirondacks, July 29. The story of Jane JMcCrea's sad fate spreads into New England, where the inhabitants had been slow to arouse to the necessity of aiding Schuyler in the New York struggle a'gainst Burgoyne ; but the details of Panther vaingloriously striding into the British camp swinging the scalp of the young and innocent girl quickens the impulse of every New England home, and they proceed enthusiastically to muster regiments in Massachusetts and Connecticut, which prove a boon in fighting Burgoyne, but had been tardy in coming to Schuyler's aid when appealed to in the most ardent language, July 31. Receiving no intimation that his force will be augmented sufficiently and within a short time to meet Burgoyne's, General Schuyler thinks it best to move his army sovith as far as Saratoga, that he may the more readily be reached with reinforcements and also being nearer his base of supplies, be the better able to make a determined stand, and writes to the Committee of Safety JANE McCREA TREE. Few realize the momentous effect of the barbaric slaying of Jane McCrea in the Ft. Edward woods by " Panther." It is likely that Burgoyne would have captured Albany had not the New England colonies been shocked to a realization of danger and speedily sent militia to Bemis Heights. Remains removed to Ft. Edward cemetery April 23, 1822. JSlO. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 297 1777. at Albany : "I have been on horseback all day, reconnoitring the country for a place to encamp on, that will give us a chance of stopping the enemy's career. I have not yet been able to find a spot that has the least prospect of answering the purpose, and I believe you will soon learn that we are retired still farther south." Aug. i. The Congress giving heed to those who had spread the opinion that General Schuyler was not the proper person to have charge of the Northern Army, recalls him, and asks General Washington to name a new general-in-chief. A memorial in the hand- writing of Samuel Adams, a New Englander, is signed by all the New England delegates to the Congress, who embrace the opportunity that ha.d specifically been made, requesting Gen- eral Washington to appoint general Gates in Schuyler's stead. Aug. I. John Jay and Gouverneur Morris, delegates from New York to Philadelphia and two of the most respected delegates of the entire Continental Congress, arrive there in order to explain the situation in their state and the impossibility of Schuyler maintaining his position against so great odds ; but learning that Gates had been appointed to supersede him the previous day, each writes as follows to General Schuyler,— from Gouverneur Morris : " You will readily believe that we are not pleased at this resolution, and I assure you for my own part I feel exceedingly distressed at your removal, just when changing fortune began to declare in your favor. Congress, I hope, will perceive that our successes have been owing to the judicious plans adopted previous to your removal ;" and from John Jay : " Washington and Congress were assured that unless another general presided in the Northern Department the militia of New England would not be brought into the field. The Con- gress, under this apprehension, exchanged their general for the militia — a bargain which can receive no justification from the supposed necessity of the times ;" from James Duane, another •delegate, coming from New York city : " Your enemies, relent- less, and bent on your destruction, would willingly include you in the odium of losing Ticonderoga. The change of command was not, however, founded on this principle, but merely on the representation of the Eastern States that their militia, suspicious of your military character, would not turn out in defence of New York while you presided in the Northern Department." Aug. 2. 298 AliRAHAM CORXELIS CUVLKR. No. 26. 1777. So many of the jjersons livint^- in the country near Albany, in dread of the expected attack seek the protection of the city, bringing- their hve stock, and the authorities not caring to aid the foe by having them taken by the enemy's scouting parties for provender, the Committee of Safety provides that the pas- ture knid in the southern part of the city that is owned by tories may be used by any refugees for grazing, Aug. 4. General Washington having refused to interfere in the action taken by the Congress and being unwilling to appoint a man in the place of Schuyler, leaves the matter at the disposal of the Congress and that body appoints Gen. Horatio Gates, who was born at Maldon, Eng., 1728, and was a resident of New England after coming to this country, Aug. 5. General Schuyler writes to General Washington, having moved his army from Saratoga southward to Stillwater as follows : " By the unanimous advice of all the general officers, I have moved the army to this place. Here we propose to fortify a camp, in expectation that reinforcements will enable us to keep the ground and prevent the enemy from penetrating further into the country; but if it should be asked whence I expect these reinforcements, I should be at loss for an answer, not having heard a word from Massachusetts on my repeated application, nor am I certain that Connecticut will afiford us any success. Our Continental force is daily decreasing by desertion, sickness, and loss in skirmishes with the enemy, and not a man of the militia now with me will remain above one week longer, and while our force is diminishing that of the enemy augments by a constant acquisition of Tories ; but if, by any means, we could be put in a situation for attacking the enemy and giving them a repulse, their retreat would be extremely difficult, that in all probability they would lose the greater part of their army." Aug. 5- General Burgoyne carrying" out the plan of marching southward to Albany while Gen. William Howe moves up the Hudson from New York with his 5,000 men, thus opposing a combined army of disciplined soldiers of more than 14,000 British soldiers to General Schuyler's less than 2,000, sends a despatch to General Howe telling him that he is satisfied with his advance on Albany and impatient to reach the mouth of the Mohawk, when he could make nine miles to Albany whenever ready to take that city, which he calculates should be in about sixteen days, Aug. 6. GENERAL PETER GANSEVOORT. He was born at Albany, July 17, 1749; successfully defended Fort Stanwix (Rome, N. Y.) against British and Indians under Gen. St. Leger, August, 1777, and died July 2, 1812. (From the painting by Gilbert Stuart.) No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 299 1777. General Schuyler bears his supreme trial as a man and evinces his thorough patriotism in his letter to President Hancock : " I am far from being insensible of the indignity of being ordered from the command of the army at a time when an engagement must soon take place. It, however, gives me great consolation that I shall have an opportunity of evincing that my conduct has been such as deserved the thanks of my country." August. General Nicholas Herkimer is at Oriskany, on the Mohawk eight miles below Fort Stanwix where Col. Peter Gansevoort had been pluckily holding the little garrison against General St. Leger of the British force coming from Oswego, and he plans to attack that general from the rear, thus giving Gansevoort an opportunity to make a sally, and sends word that on the firing of three guns from the fort he will co-operate. Aug. 5. Herkimer does not hear the three guns at the time specified and waits, but on being accused by his officers with treachery yields and leading his men up the Mohawk's bank he is attacked sud- denly in an ambuscade, St. Leger having been advised by Indian scouts, and his Royal Greens spring out engaging Herkimer in the most bloody battle of the Revolution. Herkimer, wounded by a shattered leg, sits upon a tree stump and while smoking his pipe to relieve the pain, gives orders to his men (from which wound by unsuccessful operation he dies later) and they fight hard though losing many. Gansevoort, a native Albanian (b. July 17, 1749), on hearing the noise of battle, makes an im- petuous sally and takes Sir John Johnson's men by surprise, they rushing across the ]\Iohawk. Gansevoort loots the British camp of all Sir Johnson's papers and places the five British flags he captures beneath one that he improvises for the American army, for in the exigency of the case the Americans required some sort of a national flag, (although the Congress had taken action a month or two before to provide a flag) composing it of a portion of Captain Swarthout's cloak, Aug. 6. General Philip Schuyler, having been at Albany attending to some important matters regarding the relief of Fort Stanwix, is about to mount his horse, standing; before his mansion in the southern part of this city, and ride back to his army near Saratoga, when an officer comes up, who hands him a dispatch. He breaks the seal, and a flush spreads over his noble face as he reads a copy of the resolution of the Congress relieving him of his command. The sacrifice must have aroused powerful sentiments of sorrow in his mind; but he smothers all ideas of resentment that may be intermixed with patriotic duty, mounts 300 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. his horse aiul starts for Stillwater, just the same as had been his intention before the unpleasant message arrived, -^"S- lO- General Schuyler writes to James Duane, New York delegate to the Cong'ress from whom he had received a cordial letter condoling the circumstances of his removal : " Last night I was advised that General Gates is on the point of arriving to relieve me. Your fears may be up, lest the ill-treatment I have experienced at his hands should so far get the better of my judgment as to embarrass him. Do not, my dear friend, be uneasy on that account. I am incapable of sacrificing' my country to a resent- ment however just, and I trust I shall give an example of what a good citizen ought to do when he is in my situation." August. General Schuyler's estimable wife, Catherine ( daughter of John Van Rensselaer of the Greenbush ^lanor, born at his home. Fort Crailo, on Nov. 4. 1734). a very beautiful woman as well as a most kindly character, often sending her milch cows from her farms to relief of the needy, goes up to their Saratoga (Schuy- lerville) homestead (on the west bank of the Hudson, 12 miles northeast of Saratoga Springs) in her chariot drawn by four horses, in order to remove the household articles, fearing the early approach of the British. She is attended by a single armed man on horseback. When she reaches a point of dense woods two miles south of her home, she meets a crowd of panic-stricken peo])!e Avho are hurrying along the highway to Albany, and who tell her of the tragic death of Jane McCrea as a warning to her of the great dangers of being overtaken by the enemv if she does not turn about. In reply she tells them : " The General's wife must not be afraid." While at her home she receives explicit instructions from her liusband that she must burn tlieir fields of ripening grain, that the enemy may not receive any benefit therefrom. She goes to the river flats east of their homestead, where hundreds of acres of wheat are growing, and herself applies the torch. Tt is the intention of General Schuyler to set an example to other patriots along the route to .\ll)any. She also sends all her horses for use of the American armv, intending to make use of oxen to draw her Ijack to the city. August. In order to obtain provisions and horses to transport the same, General lUirgoyne, being advised by his scouts of the stores collected for warfare by the Americans at Bennington, sends Lieut. -Col. Ilaum there with instructions to meet him again at Albany, the better prepared thus to move on to New York, Aug. II. No. 26. AJJRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. 3OI 1777. At this time New England, fearing Burgoyne's army might turn into that section and having been posted by Washington that if tliis happened the horde of Indians allied with the enem}' would proceed to terrible slaughter, fully aroused to the necessity of answering Washington's appeal and advice to lend some of its militia at once, is gathering reinforcements to co-operate with Schuyler; but he is in ignorance of these facts, Aug. 12. Lt.-Col. St. Leger, who had been sent from Canada to go bv way of Oswego through the Mohawk valley and attack General Schuy- ler's rear while Burgoyne was engaging the front, now at Fort Stanwix (site of Rome), laying siege to it, Aug. 12. Even with so small a force as he has at his command^ opposed by the enemy four to one. General Schuyler is appealed to by the inhabitants of the Mohawk valley to protect them by giving up a part of his little body of men or move westward instead of engaging Burgoyne, and to the Committee of Tryon County he writes: " I am sorry, very sorry that you should be calling upon me for assistance of Continental troops when I have already spared you all I could ; when no army has yet made its appear- ance ; when the militia of every county in the state except yours is altogether called out. For God's sake do not forget that you are an over-match for any force the enemy can bring against you, if you will act with spirit. I have a large army to oppose, and trust I can do it effectually, and prevent their penetrating to any distance into the country. Keep up your spirits ; show no signs of fear ; act with vigor ; and you will not only serve your country, but gain immortal honor." August. General Schuyler orders Gen. Benedict Arnold to hasten to the relief of Fort Stanwix, ' Aug. 13. General Schuyler sends word to General Washington that because of the number of Tories joining Burgoyne's army as it marches southward, " and which will be doubled if General Burgoyne reaches Albany, which I apprehend will be very soon," he is forced to give way, and to move further south, Aug. 13. General Schuyler, despondent to a degree upon receiving neither reinforcements nor word to the effect that any will come, and finding it becoming daily more essential to be near his base of supplies, moves his small army along the highway beside the west bank of the Hudson from Stillwater to the junction of that river with the Mohawk, and forms a camp on both Haver and Van Schaick islands in the Hudson, Aug. 14. The several movements southward of General Schuyler and his army had now created the idea among those who did not know the reasons, that he was loath to meet Burgoyne, Aug. 15. 302 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. General Schuyler orders a line of formidable breastworks thrown up along the northeastern and northwestern sides of Haver island, Chief Engineer Thaddeus Kosciusko of the Northern Army superintending the work, the intention being to defend the fords at Half Moon Point (the site of Waterford) where Burgoyne would necessarily try to cross over, Aug. 15. On August 1st the Congress, giving heed to those who had spread the opinion that General Schuyler was not the proper person to have charge of the Northern Army, recalled him and had asked General Washington to name a new general-in-chief, and a memorial in the handwriting of Samuel Adams, signed by all the New England delegates, requested him to appoint General Gates, a New Englander, in Schuyler's stead. Washington had refused to interfere and left the matter at the disposal of the Congress, which on August 5th had appointed Gates, and he now takes command at Albany, Aug. 19. On General Gates* arrival at the camp on Van Schaick island, bear- ing his commission as commander-in-chief. General Schuyler receives him with politeness and gives him all the information in his power regarding the enemy and his army, proffering all assistance he may be able to render in any capacity ; but Gates ignores him most brusquely, and although Gates invites every- body to his first council of war, even sending for Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck, at Albany, he does not ask Schuyler to attend, which action (later on) elicits from Gouverneur Morris this trenchant utterance : " The new commander-in-chief of the Northern Department may, if he please, neglect to ask or dis- dain to receive advice ; but those who know him will, I am sure, be convinced that he needs it." Aug. 19. General Burgoyne repairing bridges over the Hudson between Sara- toga (Schuylerville) and Ft. Edward, for his advance or in readiness for a retreat, Aug. 20. General Gates is helped by the acquisition of Col. Henry Beekman Livingston's 4th N. Y. Regiment and Col. Philip Van Cort- landt's 2nd N. Y. Regiment, which arrive and join General Poor's division on the south bank of the Mohawk at Loudon's ferry; Gen. Arnold also counted upon to go there from Fort Stanwix, Aug. 21. General Schuyler has a narrow escape from death at the hands of a savage while at his country-place (Schuylerville), whither he had gone to gather and remove his personal effects ere the British approach. The incident is described by J. Watts De Peyster in these words : " Before the mansion was evacuated. GEN. HORATIO GATES. A New Englander ; born at Maldon, Eng., in 1728: appointed by the Congress major-general commanding Northern Army, Aug. 5, 1777 ; arrived at Albany, Aug. 19, 1777, and assumed command at Van Schaick Island that day. Received Burgoyne's surrender Oct. 17, 1777. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. oq^ 1777. however, the General himself had a narrow escape from assas- sination by the hand of a savage, who had insinuated himself into the house for that purpose. It was the hour of bedtime in the evening", and while the General was preparing to retire for the night, that a female servant, in coming in from the hall, saw a gleam of light reflected from the blade of a knife in the hand of some person, whose dark outline she discerned behind the door. The servant was a black slave [Meg], who had sufficient presence of mind not to appear to have made the discovery. Passing directly through the door into the apartment where the General was standing near the fireplace, with an air of unconcern she pretended to arrange such articles as were disposed upon the mantelpiece, while in an undertone she informed her master of her discoverv, and said aloud, ' I will call the guard.' The General instantly seized his arms, while the faithful servant hurried out by another door into a long hall, upon the floor of which lay a loose board which creaked beneath the tread. By the noise she made in tramping rapidly upon the board, the Indian— for such he proved— wa's led to suppose that the Philistines were upon him in numbers, sprang from concealment and fled. He was pursued, however, by the guard and a few friendly Indians attached to the person' of General Schuyler, overtaken and made prisoner " Auoust Reports reach Lieut.-Colonel Barry St. Leger, commander of the British army coming from the west by way of Oswego to attack Albany, at the same time that Burgoyne and Howe^'form a juncture from the north and south of that city, and who has been laying siege to Fort Stanwix for twenty-one days that General Benedict Arnold is advancing on him from Albany, and IS approaching with great rapidity of forced marches with his army of a thousand men. Arnold had taken particular pains that rumors of his coming in great haste should reach the ears of St. Leger, and these had the desired effect just at a time when his forces were becoming almost unmanageable. On the 20th, he had reached Fort Dayton, his army increasing in size as he marches through the Mohawk valley by the American patri- ots dropping their work of harvesting and ioining the ranks of the army moving westward to relieve Fort Stanwix. St. Leger, too scared to maintain his position, although Arnold stilf at Utica, raises the siege and flees with his armv in a retreat to Oswego, his Indian allies treacherouslv looting his baggage tram and scalping both the American prisoners and the laggards of St. Leger's frightened army, Aug 22 304 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. General Gates writes to Washington in full regarding conditions and plans for meeting Burgoyne, from his newly established head- quarters in Van Schaick's homestead on Van Schaick island, in which letter he says there is a brigade at Loudon's Ferry, a brigade under General Lincoln with General Stark's forces at Bennington, and a brigade under General Arnold helping to raise the siege of Fort Stanwix, and he thanks him for propos- ing to send Col. Daniel Morgan's rifle corps to him, as it is the most skilled in the country, Aug. 22. General Gates has by this time acquired an army of about 6,000 men, forces that were gathering while Schuyler was in command, arriving now in numbers, Sept. i. The Legislature of the State of New York convenes at Kingston, the Assembly holding its inaugural session, Sept. i. General Gates, believing he has a force sufficiently powerful to meet General Burgoyne, advances northward from the island at the mouth of the Mohawk to Stillwater, and begins throwing up intrenchments there, Sept. 8. State Senate first convenes, holding its session at Kingston, Sept. 9. Kosciusko, having discovered a superior place for a position of defence to the north. Gates moves to Bemis Heights, known as Saratoga at this time, although hardly a farmhouse to eacli square mile for the next ten miles northward along the west shore of the Hudson river. The army begins intrenching itself, Gates' right flank on the river near Bemis' Tavern, and the left on the high ground to the west, Sept. 12. Not only does Gates fortify his position by erecting breastworks and very strong batteries ; but his position is more impregn.able by reason of the virgin forest about him, the high ground and the ravines. The intrenchment that he orders under Kosciusko's survey and advice runs from Bemis' Tavern at the west shore of the Hudson, all the way to the top of the hills. At the former terminal he places a battery, and throws a floating bridge across the river, which he also defends at its landing on the east bank, Sept. 13. General Burgoyne's army (but not himself) on Saturday morning, crosses the Hudson river from the east to the west shore, just north of where the Battenkill creek flows into it from the east, intending to march down the highway along the western shore, and makes thus his first direct move into the vicinity of the scene where is to occur his fierce conflict, siege, final struggle and sur- render. This fording place was to the north of the Battenkill's No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 305 1777. mouth and about three miles to the north of where in Saratoga ( later Sclnivlerville ) he is shortly to yield to the Americans. In crossing over. General Fraser leads. Colonel Breyman following closely in order to cover the left wing. Long impatient to hear from General Howe as to the probability of his being able to make a successful juncture with him at Albany, Burgoyne re- ceives the first message from his co-patriots far to the south, Howe writing that he is on the Delaware ; but the dispatch makes no reference to a meeting" of their forces, and Burgoyne wonders whether the home government has duped or deserted him by not carrying out the original scheme when he was sent on the campaign. Burgoyne was now in a densely wooded region, the only place where one may see any distance being the river, and fearful lest at any moment the next mile might bring him face to face with his foe. While he could hear the morning drum beat, yet he gained no idea of how many there are to oppose his march, or where the enemy is located. The /\meri- cans are not in such ignorance. They have a valiant watchout, a Mr. Willard, on the crest of the highest hill of the range paralleling the east shore of the Hudson, and he signals every movement of the British army to the American camp directly opposite, on the flats and heights of the west side, Sept. 13. Generals Burgoyne and Phillips cross from the east to the west shore of the Hudson with the artillery train, Burgoyne by the pontoon bridge and the 20th Regiment fording below the rapids to relieve crowding of the bridge. This bridge was constructed upon rude boats or scows, and being at a narrow part of the river was only 425 feet long. Fraser had made a cut through the west bank to facilitate the army's ascent, and also excavated a roadway down the east bank (on property in 1906 of John A. Dix, Esq., and still showing) which he protected with breast- works, a battery behind it. Burgoyne recognizes the danger of cam.ping at night on the wooded hills of the west bank before his center crosses, and he mspects the heights, to plan where to post divisions in case of attack. At night the advance wing- encamps on the western heights in battle order of three columns, and Burgoyne makes his quarters at the Schuyler homestead, about two miles further south. This mansion is a broad wooden house with high columns, and is but a few hundred feet west of the Hudson. Apast its northern end, not more than a hundred feet distant, runs Fish Creek on its way to the river, and some hundred feet up this creek General Schuyler has his mills. This creek has its source in the eastern end of Saratoga Lake, twelve 306 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. miles to the west. It is so shallow below the dam, and near Schuyler's house,, that it is there a point selected for fording except at times of freshet. About the house are great elms and wild woods, almost sheltered to view from the highway two hundred feet from its western front. Many notable guests had he entertained there, and it was well provided with handsome mahogany furniture of the period. Not far to the east is a lower level of ground, known as the flat, where he raises wheat, corn and provender. It was particularly productive because the spring freshets deposited annually a mass of rich soil, in fact the flats were but an accumulation of alluvial richness, Sept. 14. General Gates makes use of the Neilson fairm and the farmhouse on a knoll about a mile west of the river, constituting it the north- west angle for his encampment. He throws up thick earth- works about the barn, to which he applies a double lining of logs, and he names the place Fort Neilson, Sept. 14. General Riedesel, in command of the German troops, crosses the river with his left wing, whereupon Burgoyne gives an exhibi- tion of his determination to win a victory, or rather displays his own convictions, by breaking up the pontoon bridge over which his army had been passing for three days. These Germans, in the end, prove themselves stubborn fighters, although they were properly termed hirelings, having been secured by German princes who, in need of money, had collected them for England at so much a head. England had first tried to hire Russians, George III. having applied to Catherine II., Empress of Russia ; but she made a flat refusal to the nefarious bargain he would make with her. It is said that all Europe cried " For shame !'" when the Flessians were secured from their masters of Hesse- Cassel at a bounty of an equivalent of $32.50 per head ; Freder- ick the Great of Prussia gave contemptuous utterance, and the Americans heartily detested these pay-men. or soldiers hired to shoot them. Burgoyne's advance-guard fords Fish Creek (sometimes called Fish Kill) and starts southward on its search for the Americans. Strange to say, he employs no scouts at this time, and penetrating the wilderness of forests stands r^ chance of being entrapped. His army proceeds in three columns, the artillery and camp baggage using the highway ; the right wing penetrating the woods half a mile up the hill- side, and the left wing iirogrcssing along the river flats half a mile east of the center column. Keeping abreast of the army ashore, the batteaux, loaded with supplies, float dov^ai the river. These movements are all observed bv the keen eves of Willard. DOVEGAT HOUSE. Burgoyne made it his headquarters previous to the Bemis Heights Battle of Sept. 19, 1777. It stood two miles south of Schuylerville; but about 1890 was torn down lest tramps burn it. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 2P7 nil. stationed on the high hill across the Hudson, who signals to the American army at its encampment on.Bemis Heights, only a few miles south of where Burgoyne's entire army is marching. Reaching Dovegat (written Dovegot by Burgoyne and others of the time ; duivenkot, Dutch for dove-cote ; called Coveville in 1906), Burgoyne halts his army, using the Sword's one-story wooden farm-house for his own resting-place, while his army pitches tents on the low hills to the west of it. (This house was standing in 1888, in good condition ; but some time previous to 1900 it was removed — an act of historic vandalism — because it was ramshackle and harbored tramps who were likely to set a newer building, near it, afire. It was about tvv'o miles south of the present Schuylerville and close to the Champlain canal, on the property of Charles H. Searles, just west of the southern abutment of his canal bridge, the canal here rumiing east and west.) Sept. 15. General Gates is now commanding the right or eastern flank of the American army and using Bemis' Tavern as his headquarters. Gen. Benedict Arnold is in command of the left or western wing, over Generals Morgan and Poor, and using the Neilson farm-house or fort (standing in 1906) for headquarters, Sept. 15. Burgoyne's army remains in the neighborhood of the Dovegat house while he conducts several regiments to protect about two hun- dred workmen who go out to repair bridges, and he also tries to discover the locality of the enemy. They proceed about three miles, or to a point about five miles to the south of Fish Creek (south end of Schuylerville), and when there hear to the south of them the beating of drums, Sept. 16. The entire British army is now encamped in regulation order at the Sword's farm, Dovegat, when they are fired on by the Ameri- cans, quite a few being killed and about twenty soldiers carried off as prisoners, Sept. 17. Burgoyne had often wondered why General Howe had not, long- before this, shown some sign of co-operation with his own movements. He had accepted the proposition to assume charge of the campaign proceeding south from Canada, when he was in England, on the condition that either Howe or another equally valorous general should be given explicit orders to progress northward from New York and form a combined attack at Albany from above and below, that place having been regarded as the strongest fortified place to be encountered and the most obstructive locality to the British hopes of possessing free pas- 3o8 Ai:RAiiA:\r cornelis cuyler. No. 26. 1777. sage up the entire valleys of the Hudson and the Mohawk, for from there they wished to direct their armies westward as far as Niagara, northward to hold complete possession to the St. Lawrence, and from there to start eastward through the New England states to suhjugate the hotbed of American patriotism. Burgoyne had felt that he was carrying out the scheme not only to the best of his abilities, but with great success. He was accomplishing all that he had set out to do and was within forty miles of Albany, positive, as he told his men. that they should eat their Christmas dinner at Albany. But whenever he heard from Howe or learned about his movements he was always leading his men in otjier directions^ into other colonies, in fact mostly in an opposite direction. All this is because Howe, un- like Burgoyne, did not receive absolute orders. They w^ere written, but not sent from England, and he assumed the posi- tion that he was practically free to carry out plans as he saw best at the time. Lord George Germaine, the colonial secretary, at London, had stopped at his ofifice one day when orders were prepared for his signature, to be sent to Burgoyne and Howe. The manner in which the papers for Howe were written did not suit his fancy, and giving directions to have the set for Howe recopied, he had driven off to a social function. The next day they were forgotten and pigeon-holed by mistake, not to turn up until the matter of American independence was finally settled. Free to act. General Howe had sent Sir Henry Clinton to the north with a ])ortion of the troops, while he turned south to the Delaware, and liurgoyne received little or no attention, at least not wdiat he had been led to expect at the start, Sept. 18. Albany Aldermen order lead taken from all windows, Sept. 18. The Americans are anxious to learn the number of the enemy, so Lieut. -Colonel Colburn (New Hampshire) goes out v/ith a scouting party, and crossing to the east ban.k of the Hudson, they climb trees to gain a view of Burgoyne's camp. They esti- mate its largeness as some eight hundred tents, and perceive much action in the neighborhood, which they interpret to indi- cate preparations for an advance. When Gates learns these facts he likewise makes ready for a battle. Burgoyne arranges his army in three columns. General Eraser commanding the right, furthest from the river; Burgoyne in charge of the cen- ter with the 9th, 20th, 2ist and 62nd Regiments, Canadians and Indians. Generals Riedesel and Phillips were io i^iarch south, as the left wing, by the river road, to within half a mile of the Americans. At 11 a. m., Burgoyne advances tow'ards Gates' No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 30y 1777. Hue on Bemis Heights. The intention of Gates, being a|i<''risecl of the British plans by scouts, is to keep his army inside his fortifications ; but Arnold perfectly construes the plan of the enemy to form a juncture of its forces at the Middle ravine, and urges Gates to allow him to go out and engage the enemy before it could reach their camp with the artillery, explaining that then, if driven back, they could rally at the breastworks of the fortified position, whereas if they were unsuccessful in the first encounter and were overpowered by luimbers and arma- ment they would be forced to fiee pell-mell down the river road to Albany. Gates yields finally to the extent of allowing General Morgan, and later General Dearborn, to go out with their ex- pert riflemen. Burgoyne had been hampered at the start by having to make a bridge and clearing the road of obstructions, and it is 12 130 p.m. when Morgan and Dearborn meet his Indians under Major Forbes, as a scouting party near the Freeman farm-house. The conflict between Americans and llritish. Gates pitted against Burgoyne, begins. The Americans suffer a terrible loss, but Morgan's men pursue until they are in con- tact with the main body, when he again suffers severely. Never- theless he rallies his men with the " turkey-call " whistle. He is reinforced by regiments under Cilley and Scammel. and at one o'clock they attack unitedly. Burgoyne forms his line of battle at the north side of Isaac Freeman's farm, a clearing of about fifteen acres, all the rest being dense woods. General Fraser was leading Burgoyne's right wing, to the west of the farm, at the start ; but wheels with the purpose of flanking Mor- gan at the left, when suddenly he finds Arnold in the Middle ravine with New York and New Hampshire regiments, who had set out to separate him from the rest of Burgoyne's army. It is now, 4 o'clock, that the action of the day is becoming general and furious. Fraser, for the British, was the courage- ous, inspiring spirit, and Arnold was the same, — intrepid, en- thusiastic and encouraging - — on the American side. These indomitable leaders, each anxious in the face of death to be the victor, are now pitted against each other. Neither gives thought to personal safety, and each gallops hither and thither up and down the field issuing orders in a ringing voice, while exhorting the various bodies as they rush apast on horseback. At 5 o'clock Burgoyne's army is in mortal peril ; but the Ger- man grenadiers under Colonel Breyman force Arnold's troops back. One moment the Americans rush after the British, and almost the next they meet with an assault at the point of the 3IO ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. bayonet that hurls them back, to sweep across the field to a ])oint of safety, the British after them. Morgan's sharpshooters, scattered all over in the branches of trees, take steady aim in their unnoticed vantage points, and pick ofT numbers of British officers, doing valorous work throughout the afternoon. Finally, as dusk sets in, Riedesel hastens upon the scene from where he had been busy down by the river, and strikes the Americans' right a bad blow with his German or Hessian troop- ers, and has the hardihood to post Pausch's battery to the south of the Freeman farm-house. The Americans withdraw, and had not Burgoyne ordered the fight to cease, Riedesel and Fra- ser might have accomplished a victory for the British ; but as it is, both sides claim a victory. So deadly had been the after- noon's work that the Americans lost ten per cent, of those par- ticipating, or 319 men either killed or badly wounded. But this was not so poor a record as the British made. Their loss was 600 men, or twenty per cent, of those engaged, and to illus- trate it more forcibly it may be noted that of the 500 men in the 62nd British regiment only 60 reported. Sept. 19. The British, down the Hudson below Albany, take the river forts, and clearing away the log boom and mammoth iron chain stretched across the river in Aprrl, their vessels sail into New- burgh Bay. Sept. 19. L)urgoyne, immediately after the battle's close on the previous day, had planned to keep the fighting continuous, and at night had sent orders for a renewal of hostilities at daybreak. As a result rations are served in early morning light. The unusually heavy fog rolling up from river and creek does not lift at the time the troops had previously been ordered to march, and they are told to wait until they will be able to see the enemy at half a mile's distance. General Fraser suggests that the men be allowed to rest and that they be given the entire day for the purpose. Had Burgoyne known that the Americans had very nearly exhausted their ammunition the day before and were counting on Mr. Van Rensselaer moulding" the lead into bullets, that the inhabitants of Albany had been ordered by the Council to obtain by remov- ing the lead from the windows, and which General Schuyler was so busy shipping to the front, box by box, as rapidly as the lead is cast, the British general could have ordered his men to attack the forces of Gates with full impunity, and readily have driven them from their camp, possibly all the way to Albany. Burgoyne, therefore, consents to rest the men for that day, to allow repairs, and to succor the wounded as well as BEMIS HEIGHTS BATTLE WELL. To this well on the Freeman farm of Bemis Heights the wounded crawled by scores to ack their death thirst after the great battle of Sept. 19, 1777, and next day a mass of corpses as found there. This spring still in use in igo6. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 3II 17 77. to bury the dead. Gates had been advised by a spy about the early morning orders of Burgoyne, and is all the forenoon in mortal dread lest the British appear ; but to his surprise none of the regiments comes his way. The day is spent in burying the dead, almost a thousand interments taking place before sunset. Most of the killed have to be placed in shallow trenches, and about all are left even without markers. A large propor- tion of the dead is found near a well or spring on the Freeman farm. This was because the wounded soldier in his death thirst, caused by the loss of blood, had crawled to this spot to allay his thirst, a pit of cold water bubbling in the field where they had fought so valiantly. Some are found at the brink, where they had supped and breathed their last ; others had crawled that far and in order to reach the water had dragged them- selves over the dead bodies of their comrades, when they, too, had succumbed, unable to move away. In fact there are about a score in the space of a few yards, and others sprawled in that direction, the cold, stiffened hand grasping shrubs or clutching the grass, in dragging themselves along, the inference being that one and all in this vicinity had been intent upon quenching an inexpressible thirst by gaining the Freeman well. (This spring was used for farm purposes then and was to be seen in 1906.) Despite the covering of the bodies with earth, the hungry wolves scent their prey, and come out in numbers from the wilderness woods at night, Sept. 20. Burgoyne receives a message sent by Sir Henry Clinton, telling him that he is prepared to leave New York and ascend the Hudson, capture Albany and come directly to his aid. Of course this had been written a week or ten days previous, the British army being some one hundred and sixty miles north of New York city. Consequent upon this despatch he decides to take no initiative in the fighting ; but is resolved to wait in camp until Gates is forced by Clinton's attack to lessen his army by dispatching a goodly portion of his troops to succor Albany, Sept. 21. Burgoyne. counting upon Washington ordering the Americans southward, for the British coming up the Hudson are burning dwellings, barns and fall crops that no one had dared to harvest, spends his time in improving the strength of his fortifications on Prospect Hill, north of Fish Creek, half a mile at the most. He also occupies now a part of the Freeman farm. To the northwest of the farm-house, not more than sixty rods, he con- structs a strouQ- redoubt. Fifteen rods north of that house he 312 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CL'YLEk. No. 2 J. 1777. builds another. Only a few rods southwest of the battle well on the Freeman farm he erects the Great Redoubt. He believes his position well-nigh impregnable, Sept. 22. More redoubts are constructed by Burgoyne. He does his best to make his camp hard to reach from the south, where are the Americans. Having fortified the southwest angle' of his camp, he turns his attention to the southeast and builds smaller re- doubts, connected by intrenchments running eastward to the blufif on the west shore of the Hudson. Some of these are made by filling earth between parallel tiers of rails held upright by posts driven into the ground. The three hills north of Wil- bur's Basin also receive redoubts. His hospital and magazines he places on the flats, and he extends a pontoon bridge across the river at Wilbur's Basin for the benefit of foraging parties. The northern limits of his camp he also protects, causing a line of breastworks to be constructed, Sept. 2;^. Wolves, in enormous packs, had been attracted by the scent of the innumerable dead, and congregate at the battlefield so that even the soldier feared life at such a place. Sometimes they prowl near the camp at night. Their howls, fighting over corpses, send thrills through the trooper as he tries to sleep, for he knows it may be his turn to be their food before another sunset. They sleep in their clothes, ready for a summons at any moment. Altogether they wish they were away from the place, Sept. 24. At this time the armies are so closely encamped that orders given by the officers in one are heard distinctly at the other. Occasionally a soldier may exchange words or call names to another. Only a dense woods makes them seem apart. The pickets of each are continuously being shot at by those serving the enemy in the same capacity, and one hardly dares to depart from the protected encampments for water or to gather food. Sept. 25. The British army's position at this time is laid out with Riedesel and his German troops on the level above the river, with some companies below on the river flats to guard the hospital. Fraser is to the west with the right wing, with Colonel Breyman at the redoubt to the extreme right, and the Indians protected by the breastworks, Sept. 26. All the American officers had noticed that following the battle of the 19th, when Arnold by his exploit was considerably praised by the men in common, he had been shown a decided coolness by Gates, and this has developed into open rupture by Gates relieving him of his command. No mention had been made of Arnold by Gates in his report of the fight to the Congress, No. 26. ABRAHAxM CORNELIS CUYLER. 313 1777. althoui^h the former had rendered the most vahant service in rahying- the forces when the tide was turning in marked favor of the British. Some suppose the shght was the outcome of jealousy because Arnold in his courageous work in the north had received the admiration of Schuyler, and that Gates was acting thus toward Arnold because a friend of Schuyler, Sept. 27. In the early evening Burgoyne calls a council of his officers, stating to them at the conference tliat he has provisions for but sixteen days, and no news from Sir Henry Clinton to tell whether he was making progress on the lower Hudson. He is in ignorance that General Howe had succeeded at Germantown, and that the Americans along the river's two banks were fleeing in alarm, northward to Albany for safety. General Riedesel advises a hurried retreat, falling back to Lake George, by abandoning the artillery and avoiding Fort Edward, pass up to the west of the lake. General Fraser is opposed to retreating, as it is his nature to fight and to battle courageously on every opportunity offering, although he sees the wisdom of what Riedesel sug- gests, while General Phillips ventures no suggestion. Burgoyne does not look with favor on a retreat. He had come to con- quer, he had much to expect by returning victor to England, and he had uttered the famous remark that the British army never retreats. He therefore decides upon a reconnoitre in force in order to perceive whether there is an elevation to the west of General Gates from wdiich to gain a vantage ground for a conflict, and if unsuccessful order a retreat, Oct. 5. The Assembly having suddenly adjourned at Kingston, Oct. ist, fearing approach of enemy, the Senate speedily does the same, Oct. 7. General Burgoyne stands committed to make a determined fight before considering a retreat to the north, and the most critical day of the campaign opens. Everything is bustle in both camps, — Burgoyne's troops making active preparations to en- gage the enemy; Gates learning of the intentions of the British and making ready to receive an assault. At 10 o'clock, 1,500 of the most expert troopers under Burgoyne, led by four ex- perienced generals, taking two 12-pounders, six 6-pounders and two howitzers, the skirmishing van composed of Canadian rangers and Indian allies, move in three columns toward the west wing or the left of the American position on Bemis Heights, the locality being a wheat-field, where they attempt to cut forage. Burgoyne is accompanied by Generals Fraser, Riedesel and Phillips in his reconnaissance. They proceed two- thirds of a mile to the southwest, and deploy in the clearing 314 ABRAHAM JORNFXIS CUYLICR. No. 26. 1777. of the farm, where they seat themselves while Fraser's brigade forages in the wheat. They are on a slope bordering ^Middle Ravine on the north, and the highway connecting Bemis Heights with Quaker Springs, further west, runs through the British position to the left of the center. The Earl of Balcarras is stationed with the light infantry on the right ; the Hessians, imder Riedesel, and a battery of two 6-pounders, under Pausch, at the center; Majors Ackland and Williams, with artillery and grenadiers, on the left. General Fraser had already been sent out with a force of five hundred grenadiers to a high piece of ground with the hope of stealing to the left of the Americans, so as to engage the enemy while the British managed to gain a vantage point of slight elevation west of the American position, and several officers climb to the top of a roof to observe the lay-out of the enemy's camp with spy-glasses. The British ad- vance is announced at the American headquarters and Gates, taking it to mean that the British ofifer battle, asks of Colonel Wilkinson, his aide, "What would you suggest?" To this query of moment the latter replies, " I would indulge him." Gates then tells him, " Order out Morgan and begin the game.' " General Morgan and his Virginia sharpshooters are the pick of the Americans. They had an excellent record, and had been sent north by Washington on purpose to insure success to a faltering and critical cause. Morgan is told to circuit to the west and strike at the enemy's flank, being allowed time to reach the location, and while General Poor and his brigade are assailing the left flank. Dearborn's rifles and Learned's brigades are to engage the center. At 2 :30 o'clock, General Poor, with New York and New Hampshire troops, moves steadily through the woods in the direction of the British left. When prepared, the Americans dash forward, open fire right and left, flank the enemy, and blast him with a deadly fire, closing and grappling hand to hand, in this manner five or six times in the first hour taking and retaking a single cannon. The Virginians rush im- petuously, seemingly careless of life ; but withal acting with preciseness, as those realize who receive their deadly aim, and the British right wavers. A great struggle takes place near Williams' battery, and six times one of his 12-pounders is cap- tured and retaken ; but Major Williams is at last made prisoner, and Major Ackland is badly wounded. This disaster creates a panic among the grenadiers of the British, who, with leaders lost to them, turn and flee. Colonel Cilley leaps upon a British cannon and proclaiming it dedicated to the cause of patriotism,. FORT NEILSON. In this building, standing in 1906, south of Schuylerville, Gen. Gates jealously- held Gen. Arnold back " lest he do something rash " ; but Arnold heard the roar of cannon, mounted his charger and dashed out of a sally port. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 3I5 1777. orders it turned and fired on the British. At this juncture the New Englanders sweep up and break the British hue. The enemy flees, but reforms and again advances. The entire American force having impelled itself upon the British center held by the Germans, one side or the other but needs a little more help to win. Morgan now takes note of Fraser in his advanced position, gains the western ridge and like a mighty avalanche his troops impel themselves upon the Fraser forces with such vehemence that they move back to the main body, after which he flanks the British right, and presses it directly back. Gen. Benedict Arnold had not only been relieved of his command by Gates a few days previous, but held at the Ncilson fort, he had asked Gates to allow him to serve in the ranks as a common soldier. Gates had refused. Arnold hears the noise of conflict half a mile away, cannot stand the strain of military inactivity at such a time, his strenuous spirit strains at such restraint, and leaping upon his fiery bay charger, puts spurs to his steed and dashes through a sally port, off for the scene of activity of which he craves to become a part. Gates on per- ceiving this act hurriedly sends a rider, Major Armstrong, after him, with orders to bring Arnold back lest he injure the Ameri- can cause by doing "some rash thing." Some might term it rashness, but it is the sort of rashness that wins the day for the Americans and brings them the credit of one of the fifteen greatest victories in the world's history instead of defeat. Arnold places himself at the head of a detachment of Learned's brigade. This he would under ordinary circumstances have a perfect right to do as Learned was below him in rank, and it is but his first move, for it is not long before he is rallying all the American forces on his wild dashes up and down the entire line, vehemently exhorting the troops to take courage, renew their vigor and fight their best. He leads them in a charge against the center, held by the Hessians. He even conducts his followers, with shouts that encourage men who had wavered under their other leader, right through the lines of the British. Major Armstrong, sent by Gates to head'him off and bring him back to Fort Neilson, dares not follow him in his courageous charge; but waits at a respectful distance, possibly realizing that he would endanger the success which is coming the Ameri- cans' way. Fraser feels it imperative to rally his men to the relief of the Germans, realizing that Arnold is waging the dead- liest fight of the day. He leads the 24th Regiment valiantly, and the reliance of the British is restored. He is the inspiring 3l6 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. genius for the British upon whom Burgoyne now relies, as he had depended on him throughout the entire campaign in America. Morgan notices that Fraser is Hkely to place the day's fight to the credit of the British unless the effective work begun by Arnold is reinforced, and believes that by combining, or rather co-operating with Arnold, the two will save the day. Morgan, therefore, opposed directly against Eraser's brigade, calls a few of his sharpshooters about him, and (possibly as suggested to him by Arnold, as some think) tells them: " That gallant officer on tlie gray horse is General Fraser. I admire and respect him. but it is necessary for our cause that he should die. Take your station in that clump of trees and do your duty." (Some critics of the fight have found it to their whim to criticise this act as murder ; but it would seem to be ridicu- lous if each side were continuously picking out that portion of the opposition which the enemy can spare the most readily, in- stead of thinking that the quickest result will ensue by crippling the enemy at its strongest parts if that be as easily accomplished as injuring its ineffective points that are doing a minimum of damage. Surely one must be thinking of sparing the men of his own side by doing the greatest harm to the enemy in the shortest time so that he surrenders. The fight might be brought to a halt by removing the leader.) It is not many minutes after this incident that General Fraser falls from his horse, mortally wounded in tlie intestines by a ball delivered by Timothy Mur- phy, sharpshooter, perched in a tree about one thousand feet to the southwest. (A solid granite tablet, in 1906, marks where he fell. From an examination of the wound later, it is believed by the surgeons that had he partaken of a less hearty meal be- fore the fight, the bullet would not have pierced the intestine, which was inflated when shot.) He is tenderly carried from the field by his comrades, and Burgoyne in person takes his place in command of the brigade. General Abraham Ten Broeck, from Albany (not long afterwards elected the city's 2Bth Mayor) leading three thousand fresh troops, comes upon the scene, and the American column, now greatly encouraged, shouts exultingly. Burgoyne abandons his guns and retreats northward to his camp. Scarcely had the British reached their redoubts when the courageous, impetuous Benedict Arnold, spurring his horse's fianks until the animal seems to skim the sward without touching it, rides up, and galloping from one end of the American line to the other, urges the men on to the enemy's redoubt, and they drive the British in wildest disorder GENERAL BENEDICT ARNOLD. It was almost entirely due to his valiant leading in the furious charges that the Americans won the Battle of Saratoga. In many previous instances he had been seriously slighted by superiors and given inferior commands. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 31/ 1777. at the point of the bayonet. Then, galloping- to the extreme right, he bids the ]\Iassachn setts troops to follow, and leading them he advances to the breastworks, where his bay charger is shot from under him; he is himself shot in the leg and sinks to the ground amidst a surging mass of humanity that is madly beating- one another with the butt of musket or giving deadly thrusts with bayonet. At one of the times that Colonel Wilkin- son returns to Gates at his headquarters, a locality not v,;ithin the danger range of gunshot, for he never exposed himself to any possibility of risk, to report the progress of the fighting, he wonders at the placidity of the American general in remain- ing so far absent while such an important engagement is at its height and conditions changing each moment so as to need a guiding spirit, in fact the battle is manceuvred by the generals hidependently of the one at headquarters. Wilkinson finds that Sir Francis Clarke, a wounded British officer, had been brought to headquarters as a prisoner in Gates' care. With this royal- ist Gates had spent upwards of an hour, with the battle raging meanwhile, in a heated argument over the relative merits of the British and patriotic cause, and Gates, unable to conquer the spirit of Sir Francis Clarke, turns petulantly to Wilkinson. saying, "Did you ever see such an impudent son of a b h?" It was now possible for Gates' aide. Major Armstrong, to come up to him ; but his orders to have Arnold return to Fort Neilson before he did anything " rash," were to be carried out in any event, for the wounded general is borne away to the American camp. The disaster to the right flank by the British army induces Lieut. -Colonel Speht to recover Colonel Brey- man's lost position ; but he accepts poor advice and he, with his four officers and fifty men, is taken prisoner by an American detachment. Burgoyne, on perceiving his right flank to be as an open gate, is glad that darkness oft'ers a good excuse for both sides to stop fighting. The Americans had sufi^ered 150 killed and wounded, with Arnold the single commissioned officer wounded. The British had 700 killed and wounded, with General Fraser, Sir Francis Clarke and Colonel Breyman fatally wounded; Colonel Speht, Majors Williams and Ackland held prisoners, the latter also badly wounded. Colonel Wilkinson makes a record of the appearance of the battlefield as it appears on his leaving it that day, in the following words : " The ground which had been occupied by the British grenadiers presented a scene of complicated horror and exultation. In the square space of twelve or fifteen yards lay eighteen grenadiers in the agonies 3l8 AI'.RAIIA.M CORXELIS CUVLER. No. 26. 1777. of death, and three officers propped up against stumps of trees, two of them mortally wounded, bleeding-, and almost speechless. With the troops I pursued the flying enemy, passing over killed and wounded until I heard one exclaim, ' Protect me, sir, against this boy.' Turning my eyes, it was my fortune to arrest the purpose of a lad in the act of taking aim at a wounded officer who lay in the angle of a worm fence. Inquiring his rank, he answered, 'I had the honor to command the grenadiers;' of course I knew him to be Major Ackland, who had been brought from the field to this place by one of his men. I dismounted, took him by the hand and expressed hopes that he was not badly wounded. ' Not badly,' replied the gallant officer ; ' but very inconveniently ; I am shot through both legs, ^^'ill you, sir, have the goodness to have me conveyed to your camp?' I di- rected my servant to alight and we lifted Ackland to his seat, and ordered him to be conducted to headciuarters." It is to be noted that while Gates, a mile from the scene of battle, had won the battle, insofar as his generals proved the better generals and his men marksmen superior to the British, Burgoyne was present on the field, exposed to the fury of the fight, his hat and clothing pierced by shot and torn by bayonet. Gates, at the close of the day, learns of the valor of ]\Iorgan and realizes that he is likely to stand high with the Congress after this day, so he suggests to Morgan (possibly fearing in his jealousy of spirit that he may be superseded by him in rank) that he desert Washington and help supplant him as chief in command of the American army. Morgan will not listen to such a scandalous proposition, and replies, " I will serve under no other man but Washington." Gates is piqued. He writes a report of the day's battle, telling how he ( ?) won it, and hardly mentioning" Morgan's name. So anxious is he to hold the place of Wash- ington that he ignores his commander-in-chief and forwards his report to the Congress. At night, Burgoyne moves his army to the low ground near the river. His generals urge him to leave useless baggage behind and make for Canada ; but Bur- goyne has thirty carts laden with his wines, his manifold changes of gorgeous costumes, and many personal effects which he refuses to relinquish, Oct. 7. Baron Friedrich Adolph von Riedesel, commander of the Brunswick contingent, had brought his wife with him from Germany, a brave little woman, of education and marked ability for closely observdng affairs and making good literary record of them. While the fight was in progress this day she occupied one of GENERAL DANIEL MORGAN. He led the sharpshooters at Bemis Heights, the flower of the American army, and rendered valiant service Oct. 7, 1777. His men shot the British General Eraser upon whom Burgoyne relied for success. No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. 319 1777. the very few houses of the place, the Sword's house on the river bank. It is two and one-half miles northeast of the Free- man farm-house, where the fighting was so severe, and four miles northeast of the place where Gates has his headquarters, which latter spot is about a mile south of the Freeman farm- house. vShe had expected Generals Burgoyne, Fraser and Phil- lips to dine with her in the afternoon, should the conflict be over in time ; but was disappointed in a most sorrowful way, as she relates in her own words, as follows : " About four o'clock in the afternoon, instead of the guests who were to have dined with us, they brought in to me upon a litter poor Fraser, mort- ally wounded. Our dining table, which was already spread, was taken away, and in its place they fixed up a bed for the general. I sat in a corner of the room, trembling and quaking. The noises grew continually louder. The thought that they might bring in my husband in the same manner was to me dreadful, and tortured me incessantly. The general said to the surgeon, 'Do not conceal anything from me. INIust I die?' The ball had gone through his bowels precisely as in the case of Major Harnage. Unfortunately, however, the general had eaten a hearty breakfast, by reason of which the intestines were distended, and the ball had gone through them. I heard him often, amidst his groans, exclaim, ' O fatal ambition ! Poor General Burgoyne ! J\Iy poor wife !' Prayers were read to him. He then sent a message to General Burgoyne, begging that he would have him buried the following day at six o'clock in the evening, on the top of a hill which was a sort of redoubt. I knew no longer which way to turn. The whole entry was filled with the sick, who were suffering with the camp sickness — a kind of dysentery. I spent the night in this manner; at one time comforting Lady Ackland, whose husband was wounded and a prisoner, and at another looking after my children, whom I had put to bed. As for myself, I could not go to sleep, as I had General Fraser and all the other gentlemen in my room, and was constantly afraid that my chil- dren would wake up and cry, and thus disturb the poor dying man, who often sent to beg mv pardon for making me so much trouble." Oct. 7. Madam Riedesel inscribes in her diary a graphic description of the death of British General Fraser and of the seriousness of the attempt to leave the shelter of the house to bury him, while under fire of the Americans. (As it pictures the seriousness of war and shows what both sides underwent in the Revolution, 320 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. it is here given in her words as translated, in 1867, t>y William L. Stone, Esq., from her " Letters," who performed the same act a year later reg^arding the records of her husband, the general.) The account is as follows: " About three o'clock in the morning they told me that he could not last much longer. I had desired to be apprised of the approach of tliis moment. I accordingly wrapped up the children in the coverings, and went with them into the entry. Early in the morning, at eight o'clock, he died. After they had washed the corpse, they wrapped it in a sheet and laid it on a bedstead. We then again came into the room, and had this sad sight before us the whole day. At every instant, also, wounded officers of my acquaint- ance arrived, and the cannonade began. A retreat was spoken of, but there was not the least movement made toward it. About four o'clock in the afternoon I saw the new house which had been built for me, in flames ; the enemy, therefore, were not far from us. We learned that General Burgoyne intended to fulfill the last wish of General Eraser, and to have him buried at six o'clock in the place designated by him. This occasioned an un- necessary delay, to which a part of the misfortunes of the army was owing. Precisely at six o'clock, the corpse was brought out, and we saw the entire body of generals with their retinues assisting at the obsequies. The English chaplain. Mr. Brude- nell, performed the funeral service. The cannon-balls flew con- tinually around and over the party. (The American General, Gates, afterward said that if he had known that it w-as a burial, he would not have allowed any firing in that direction.) ]\Iany cannon-balls also flew not far from me, but I had my eyes fixed upon the hill, where I distinctly saw my husband in the midst of the enemy's fire, and therefore I could not think of my own danger." Burgoyne's own description of the funeral of Eraser is told in the following words : " The incessant cannonade dur- ing the solemnity ; the steady attitude and unaltered voice with which the chaplain officiated, though frequently covered with dust which the shot threw up on all sides of him ; the mute but expressive mixture of sensibility and indignation upon every countenance — these objects will remain to the last of life upon the mind of every man who was present. The growing duski- ness added to the scenery, and the whole marked a character of that juncture that would make one of the finest subjects for the pencil of a master that the field ever exhibited. To the canvas, and to the faithful page of a more important historian, gallant friend, I consign thy memory. There may thy talents, thy No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. 321 1777. manly virtues, their progress and their period, find due distinc- tion ; and long may they survive, long after the frail record of my pen shall be forgotten !" vSo soon was the funeral service concluded, Burgoyne issues orders for a retreat, and is com- pelled to steal away, northward, at night, leaving nearly four hundred British soldiers in the hospitals to the mercies of the Americans. At 9 o'clock the army begins its retrograde move- ment in a pouring rain, Riedesel leading the van and Phillips bringing up the rear. Burgoyne sends Lieut. -Colonel Suther- land and a scout, in the shadow of the complete darkness of a stormy night, to observe the position of tlie enemy, who find General Fellows with 1,300 men occupying the hill just north of Fish Creek (site of the monument erected in 1877) and about one mile west of the Hudson. He had been sent there previous to the Ijattle of the day before by Gates, to prevent the British from crossing north of the creek. Sutherland passes around Fellows' entire camp unobserved, a hazardous undertaking, and on his return begs Burgoyne to allow him to make an attack ; but the latter, realizing that he has not a man to lose and no means of supporting many more prisoners, refuses to consent, Oct. 8. Two hours before daybreak, Ikirgoyne arrives at Dovegat, three or four miles south of Fish Creek ( Schuylerville) and orders a halt. Everyone is of the opinion that he is making a serious mistake not to continue his reatreat with the utmost speed, for in another hour he might have overtaken Fellows, annihilated his command, and marched to the ford at the Battenkill, two miles beyond. Riedesel makes a note in his record to the effect : " Everyone was, notwithstanding, even then of the opinion that the army would make but a short stand, merely for its better concentration, as all saw that haste was of the utmost neces- sity, if they would get out of a dangerous trap." It was the final opportunity for Burgoyne to escape from the Americans, and his protracted halt here (and at Schuyler's homestead later in the day) costs him his army. At 4 o'clock in the afternoon, the British army moves northward along the highway and be- cause General Fellows had destroyed the bridge not a hundred yards from Schuyler's house, wades the Fish Creek, where, without tents because they had abandoned them and much equipage that afternoon at Dovegat, the army bivouacs on the wet ground. As they ford the stream, they notice the rear of General Fellows' detachment ascending the eastern bank of the river on their way north along the east shore, to take position 322 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. No. 26, 1777. north of where the Battenkill empties into the Hudson. This would prevent General Burgoyne from making use of the ford there should he attempt a retreat to Canada. He can now go in no direction without fighting. Burgoyne and his stafif. with their wives, repair to the Schuyler homestead, although the General and his wife had some weeks before removed most of their valuables. It is a far better shelter through the stormy evening than that provided for his men, who sleep under trees covered with oil-cloth. Madam Riedesel has the following ac- count in her diary as to what transpires there : " I was wet through and through by the frequent rains, and was obliged to remain in this condition the entire night, as I had no place whatever where I could change my linen. I therefore seated myself before a good fire and undressed my children, after which we laid down together upon some straw. I asked General Phillips, who came up to where we were, why he did not continue our retreat while there was yet time, as my hus- band had pledged himself to cover it and bring the arsny through. ' Poor woman,' answered he, * I am amazed at you. Completely wet through, have you still the courage to wish to go further in this weather? Would that you were our com- manding general ! He halts because he is tired, and intends to spend the night here, and give us a supper.' '' To relieve his mind of the pressing anxiety, Burgoyne and his companions set out to enjoy the night as far as in their power, and manage to have a rollicking time in the mansion of General Schuyler, as the " Brunswick Journal " relates : " The illuminated man- sion of General Schuyler rang with singing, laughter, and jing- ling of glasses. There Burgoyne was sitting with some merry companions at a dainty supper, while the champagne was flow- ing. Near him sat the beautiful wife of an English commissary, his mistress. Great as the calamity was, the frivolous general still kept up his orgies. Some were even of opinion that he had merely made that inexcusable stand for the sake of passing a merry night. Riedesel thought it his duty to remind his general of the danger of the halt, but the latter returned all sorts of evasive answers." Oct. 9. Lady Harriet Ackland had accompanied her husband. Major John Dyke Ackland of General Burgoyne's grenadiers, on the ex- pedition, and shared his' tent with him no matter what the danger, until he was mortally wounded on the 7th and carried into the American cam]). Instead of being one of Burgoyne's dimier i)artv at the Schuyler house, she has a fearful experience No. 26. ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUVLER. 323 17 77. for a woman. For two days she had worried about his fate, and finally accepted the suggestion of Baroness Riedesel to apply to Burgoyne for permission to go to the enemy's camp to nurse him. When she broached the subject to him he thought the idea preposterous for so frail a person to carry out, as shown by this entry in his records : " Though I was ready to believe that patience and fortitude in a supreme de- gree were to be found, as well as every other virtue, under the most tender forms, I was astonished at this proposal. After so long an agitation of spirits, exhausted not only for want of rest, but absolutely want of food, drenched in rains for twelve hours together, that a woman should be capable of such an un- dertaking and delivering herself to an enemy, probably in the night and uncertain of what hands she might fall into, appeared an effort above human nature. The assistance I was enabled to give was small indeed. All I could furnish to her was an open boat, and a few lines, written upon dirty wet paper, to General Gates, recommending her to his protection.'' General Burgoyne's note to enable her to pass into the enemy's lines reads as follows: "Major-General Gates, Sir: — Lady Harriet Ackland, a Lady of the first distinction by family, rank, and by personal virtues, is under such concern on account of Major Ackland, her husband, wounded and a prisoner in your hands, that I cannot refuse her request to commit her to your pro- tection. Whatever general impropriety there may be in persons acting in your situation and mine to solicit favors, I cannot see the uncommon perseverance in every female grace, and ex- ultation of character of this Lady, and her very hard fortune, without testifying that your attentions to her will lay me under obligation. I am. Sir, Your obedient servant, J. Burgoyne." She sets out at night, amidst a blinding downpour of rain, in in a small open boat, with a crew, accompanied by Rev. Edward Brudenell, chaplain to the artillery, her maid and her husband's valet, and at lo o'clock reaches the American pickets, whom she answers herself on being hailed. They pass ashore, and she is welcomed by ]\Iajor Henry Dearborn, who serves her a supper and offers her his room in a log cabin (some records say a tent) for the night, he first assuring her of her husband's more hopeful condition, Oct. 9. In the morning. General Gates courteously receives Lady Harriet Ackland bearing Burgoyne's letter to him, and she is given escort to the tent of Joseph Bird to see her husband. Bur- goyne's aide, Adjutant-General Wilkinson, describes the inci- 324 ABRAHAM CORNELIS CUYLER. No. 26. 1777. dent in his record in these words, which also furnish another hght on the character of Gates : " I visited the guard before sun- rise. Lady Ackland's boat had put off, and was floating" down the stream to our camp, where General Gates, whose gallantry will not be denied, stood ready to receive her with all the ten- derness and respect to which her rank and condition gave her a claim. Indeed, the feminine figure, the benign aspect and polished manners of this charming woman were alone suffi- cient to attract the sympathy of the most obdurate ; but if an- other motive could have been wanting to inspire respect, it was furnished by the peculiar circumstances of Lady Harriet, then in that most delicate situation which cannot fail to interest the solicitudes of every being possessing the form and feelings of a man." (Unfortunately, Major Ackland appreciated the kindness of the enemy so deeply that on his return to England he defended American courtesy and kindness in an argument with a companion, who took offense, challenged him to defend his honor for speaking so highly of the King's enemy, and was killed.) " ' Oct. 10. Burgoyne and staff leave General Schuyler's homestead in the morning, following his night of revelry, and wade Fish Creek, not much more than a hundred feet to the north of the mansion. As it is impossible now to lead his artillery out by way of the Battenkill ford, because of General Fellows and his 1,300 men- who had gone there the previous afternoon, he ascends Prospect Hill (site of the monument on Saratoga Heights, known in 1905 as Schuylerville) and erects a large, fortified camp. At noon Gates' army is ready to march, and the front reaches Saratoga (Schuylerville) about 4 o'clock, when the camp of Burgoyne is discovered on the heights across Fish Creek, consequently the Americans stop in the forest on the high ground about a mile south of the kill, with Colonel Morgan to the front. General Gates makes his headciuarters in the small, wooden farm-house of the Widow Kershaw, a mile south of Schuyler's mansion, on the highway. Major Stevens, of the American forces on the east bank, attempts to place cannon on the plain by the river to fire at Burgoyne's men at work on the landing on the west shore ; but no sooner does he discharge a shot than the British discover his whereabouts and return the fire, strik- ing Stevens' ammunition wagon which bursts and causes a mighty cheer to go up from the whole British army. Bur- goyne sends two regiments under IJeut. -Colonel Sutherland to follov/ the road directlv north along the west shore of the Q < W >! H 3 ^ ^ ^^ o X o rt lA u w m J ^ >^ rt ^ rt ffi lU u (y^ 4-; "5 ■ — C l-i ^°- ^^- ABRAHAM COENELIS CUYLER. ,2? 1777. Hudson to Fort Edward to learn whether there was any enemy hkely to impede a retreat, and to repair bridges. (General Sta k was hold.ng that place., I, had nearly reached that loc Ihy when a n,essage ,s received fron, ]!urgoyne ordering a hurried return, as he was m fear of attack. Bv error Gates is told that evening that Bnrgoyne's arn,y had retreated to Fo E^ ward, leaving only a s.uall detach„,ent to gr,ar' ^''"'"'■«' l^v down on palsed H,e ent ■ f'"' ?°" "'>' '^P' ^"'' ''" ""s inanner we pa.sed the ent.re night. A horrible stench, the cries of the children, and yet more than all this, my own an, aj (.n C j:j K-H ^ Z < o u O « H o. 3 x; P *^ H hf) •o l—t H ct3 U1 '^' O C O u L5 n CTJ C o U -'-' o t- ■*-* m n X. Ph .4_) 1 f c C/1 ^> ^^ ^K No. 27. 3nltn Harrlag. April 17. 1778 — April 8, 1779. No. 27. JOHN BARCLAY. Date of office: April 17, 1778-April 8, 1779. Appointed by: Governor George Clinton. Place of birth: St. Peter's Rectory. Parents: Rev. Thomas (B.) and Anne Dorothea Drauyer. Education: Common school. Married fa: Margaret Ten Eyck. Date: September 8, 1771. Children: None. Religion: Episcopalian. Date of death: 1779. Remarks: First Mayor appointed under State authority. First President City and County Committee of Correspondence and Safety, 1774-79. Zealous, patriotic, exercised good judg- ment. No. 27. JOHN BARCLAY. 345 1778. (Continued from No. 26.) 1778. John Barclay sworn as the Mayor of xA-lbany, to succeed Abraham CorneHs Cuyler, having been commissioned by Gov. George Chnton, April 17. Newspapers of the day bristling with advertisements of slaves for sale, ■Common Council establishes by ordinance the selling-price at which city taverns, inns, ordinaries and ale-houses may sell, designat- ing : " Good West India Rum, genuine French brandy, Hol- land Geneva, Lisbon, Sherry. Port, red and white Mountain French Claret common sort, French white Wine, Spanish red Wine, Rhenish, at 10 shillings per quart, and one shilling and four pence per gill, * * * Strong Beer and Cyder brewed or made in this state, one shilling per quart." The same ordinance also established other rates for the taverns (as hotels were then called ) , such as price for a breakfast, 2 shillings ; dinner, 3 shillings and six pence ; for stabling horse one night. 2 shil- lings ; for rooming man or woman one night. \ shilling. April 25. The work of stretching the mammoth iron chain, that had been made at the Sterling Iron Works of Peter Townsend (of Albany) in Orange county, across the Hudson River, from West Point to Constitution Island, completed to-day. Placing it from shore to shore, buoyed by huge logs, had commenced on April i6th. The river is confined here to a width of 1.400 feet, and to allow for sagging the chain was made 1,700 feet long. Each link, of 2i/< inch iron bars, was 30 J/2 inches long with 26 inches hole, and the whole weighing 70,000 lbs., or 35 tons. The idea was to keep the British fleet from proceeding up the Hudson to Albany. April 30. In a private letter to Colonel V^arick, Gen. Philip Schuyler says : " 1 thank you for your favor by Mr. Fonda & for the intelligence you have given me — I had a hint some time ago, that Gates would take command in the highlands as soon as all was pre- pared ; he has the luck of reaping harvests sown by others." Saratoga, May 3. Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck, being informed by letter from General Stark that the troops at Albany are ordered to Fishkill, the Common Council meets and frames a letter to General Stark stating that through the number of its men already away on 34^.) JOHN BARCLAY. No. 2/. 1778. duty it wonkl not be safe to leave the city protected by only 150 militia, particularly as there were more than loo prisoners to watch, 10 of them condemned to death, and a second letter is prepared to send to General Gates, telling him that there are so many men left behind from General Burgoyne's vanquished army, deserters with no means of support, that robberies of fre- quency demand the maintenance of at least the regular body, not to speak of the necessity of having the men prepare their crops lest the inhabitants of the city be without food, — " If the British prisoners could be moved to another place it would break up the connection which is now apprehended is kept up between them, the Tories and Negroes." May 20. f'hilip Livingston, Signer of Declaration as Member of Congress from New York, and the father of Patroon Stephen Van Rens- selaer's wife, Catherine, ( b. at N. W. corner State and Pearl streets), dies at York, Pa., June 12. George Clinton presides at the convention being held at Pough- keepsie for deliberating on the federal constitution, which he tloes not think safeguards the sovereignty of each state, June 17. Common Council's request to allow the local militia to remain in the city is not granted, and the troops are sent to Fishkill, June. Chancellor Robert R. Livingston's widowed mother rebuilds the Manor House at Clermont that had been burned by the British in October i///, making use of the same stone walls, July. Inhabitants of Albany discouraged by the news that a large part, possibly 2,000 men, of the Continental army is to be quartered here for the winter, realizing that the men of the city and county having been in the armies had had no chance to work for their families or operate their farms, the Common Council writes to Gov. George Clinton : " From this state of Facts we beg leave to inform your Excellency that however willing we have always been and still are to risk our all in supporting the Freedom and Independence of our Blessed Country, yet it is our earnest request (and we deem it no more than reasonable) that in the distribution of the Troops for Winter Quarters, due respect may be had to the former distresses and present suffer- ings of the Inhabitants of Albany." September. Charter election, Common Council : John Price. John Roorbach, I. John Ja. Beeckman, John N. Bleecker, II. John M. Beeckman, Samuel Stringer, III. Flection, Sept. 29; sworn in. Oct. 14. The Colonial Congress acquits General Schuyler of any bad judg- ment in his conduct of the campaign against Burgoyne in CHAIN ACROSS HUDSON. Three of the huge iron links of the chain made at SterHng Iron Works of Peter Townsend, gt.-grandfather of Mayor Franklin Townsend, each 2M inches th.ck, 30 inches Jong; length 1,703 ft. Stretched shore to shore on April No. 27. JOHN BARCLAY. 347 1778-1779. northern New York, acknowledges that he had exhibited no lack of energy and had shown but sagacity and valor in all he had done, the court-martial that he had requested, acquitting him on every count, and Congress approving the verdict " with the highest honor." December. 1779. Stage line to New York city charging ten dollars each person. Rensselaerswyck subdivided into east and west districts, March 5. Cen. Philip Schuyler having sent in his resignation after the fullest manner of exoneration by the Congress, John Jay writes to him : " Congress has refused to accept your resignation. Twelve states were represented. New England and Pennsyl- vania against you. The delegates of the latter are new men and not free from the influence of the former. From New York south you have fast friends. * " * Were I in your situation I should not hesitate a moment to continue in the service. I have the best authority to assure you that the Com- mander-in-chief wishes you to retain your comimssion. The propriety of your resignation is now out of the question. Those laws of honor which might have required it are satisfied. Are you certain they do not demand a contrary conduct? You have talents to render you conspicuous in the field ; and address to conciliate the affections of those who may wish you ill. Both these circumstances are of worth to your family, and, inde- pendent of public considerations, argue forcibly for the army. Gather laurels for the sake of your country and your children. You can leave them also the reputation of being descended from an incontestably great man — a man who, uninfluenced by the ingratitude of his country, was unremitted in his ex- ertions to promote her happiness. You have hitherto been no stranger to these sentiments, and therefore I forbear to en- large." March. Captain Machin engaged in taking a water level between Albany and Schenectady, with the idea of supplying this city by means of an aqueduct, which design he submits to the Common Council, Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck is appointed the Mayor of Albany by Governor George Clinton of the State of New York. • • • (See No. 28.) No. 28. Abraliam SatSrnKL April 9, 1779— Jvine 26, 1783. Oct, 15. 1796 - Dec. 31, 1798. No. 28. ABRAHAM TEN BROECK. Date of office: (a) April 9, I77y-June 26, 1783. (b) October 15, 1796-Deceniber 31, 1798. Date of appoiiitment: (a) (b) September 29, 1796. Appointed by: (a) Governor George Clinton, (b) Governor John Jay. Date of birth: May 13, 1734. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Dirck (T. B. — 21st Mayor) and Margarita Cuyler. Education: Good schooling in New York city. Married to: Elizabeth Van Rensselaer. Date: November i, 1763. Children: (5-1 s. 4 d.) Dirck (b. 1765, m. Cornelia Stuyvesant), Elizabeth (1765-7), Elizabeth (b. 1772, m. Rensselaer Schuy- ler), Margarita (1776), Maria Van Rensselaer (1779). Residence: (a) Northwest corner Columbia street and Broadway. (b) West side Ten Broeck street, north of Third street. Occupation: Lawyer. Banker. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: January 19, 1810. Place of death: No. 9 Ten Broeck place. Place of burial: \'ault in rear; later Rural Cemetery. Title: General. Remarks: Member of Colonial Assembly, 1760-65. Member of Provincial Congress, April 20, 1775. Delegate to Continen- tal Congress at Philadelphia, May, 1775. Colonel of militia. October 20, 1775. General, January, 1776. Brigadier- General, 1776-March 26, 1 78 1. President State Convention, 1776. President of Committee of Safety, December. 1776. State Senator, 1780-83. Justice Court of Common Pleas, 1781-94. President Bank of Albany, 1792-98. Member Committee of Safety. Zealous, able, courageous, patriotic. Trustee for Patroon Stephen Van Rensselaer 16 years. 28. ABRAHAM TEN BROECK. 1779-83; 1796-98. From the oil painting presented to the city of Albany by Mr. Frederic P. Olcott of New York city. No. 28. ABRAHAM TEN BROKCK. 351 1779-1780. (Continued from No. 2'/'). 1779. Gen. Abraham Ten liroeck is sworn as the Mayor of Albany, suc- ceeding John Barclay, having been appointed by Gov. George Clinton, April 9. Gen. Philip Schuyler having pressed his resignation from military life, it is accepted and he takes his seat as a delegate to the Continental Congress, April. Legislature holds an important session at Kingston, August. Charter election. Common Council : John Price, John Roorbach, 1. John Ja. Beeckman, John N. Bleecker, II. Samuel Stringer, John M. Beeckman, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Senate and Assembly, in session at Kingston, pass a resolution that the Legislature when it next convenes assemble at Albany, Oct. 25. Gov. George Clinton proclaims a meeting of the Legislature to be held on Jan. 4th at Albany, Dec. i. 1780. First meeting of the State Legislature to be held at Albany, which had been set for January 4th by Governor Clinton, but post- poned by heavy snows, convenes at the City Hall and Court House at the northeast corner of So. Alarket street (Broadway) and Hudson (avenue) street, Jan. 27. Mohawk valley devastated b}^ the Six Nations under Brant. Shakers located at Niskayuna, west of the city a few miles, now agree to give testimony in public when called upon to do so. The first Legislative session held in Albany decides on its first ad- journment. March 14. Schuyler Alansion in the south part of the city, brilliantly illumi- nated in the evening on announcement that New York State had ratified at Poughkeepsie the American Constitution, which m parts had been drafted in one of the rooms of this house by Alexander Hamilton, July 29. General Gates totally defeated by Lord Cornwallis at Camden, S. C, (soon to be superseded by General Greene), Aug. 16. 352 ABRAHAM TEN BROECK. No. 28. 1780-1781. Major John Andre ( b. London, 1751) is rowed to the shore from Liie Vulture and makes arrangements near Stony Point on the Hudson, as representativ^e of Sir Henry Clinton, with Gen. Benedict Arnold of the .American army, for the surrender of West Point, and talking till midnight they repair to the house of Joshua Hett Smith for further consultation, Sept. 21. Major Andre arrested as a spy by John Paulding", David Williams and Isaac Van Wart, on his returning", when half a mile north of Tarrytown, ami in his boots are found papers that reveal the defence of West Point and positions to be occupied in case of attack. P'ruitlessly he offers much money to be liberated, Sept. 23. Benedict Arnold learns of the discovery of his plans to have the British capture West Point and General Washington and hur- liedly bidding adieu to his fainting" wife, hastens to the A^ilture and sails oiT down the Hudson, Sept. 24. Major Andre, having been tried and appeals made to spare him, i^ executed as a British spy, at Tappan, N. Y., Oct. 1. Charter election, Common Council : John Roorbach, Peter W Yates, I. John Ja. Beeckman, John N. Bleecker, H. Samuel Stringer, John Ten Broeck, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth, daughter of Gen. Philip Schu}'- ler, married at the Schuyler Mansion in southern part if the citv, Dec. [4. 1781. Legislative session held a second time in this city, convening in the City Hall on So. Market street (Broadway), Jan. 17. George W^ashington acts as godfather (so it is narrated) of Cathe- rine Van Rensselaer Schuyler, daughter of Gen. Philip Schuyler and Catherine Van Rensselaer; godmother, Mrs. Washington, the baptism performed by Dominie Eilardus Westerlo, recorded as performed in the register of the Reformed Dutch Church standing" in the centre of Yonkers (State) street a little west of its intersection with Market (Broadway) street, March 4. Gen. Philip Schuyler appointed State surveyor-general, ^larch 30. The second Legislative session ever held in this city adjourns, March 31. o 00 C^ o CO o O ■" ^t^ Q rt E o _o o pi; <: iC 3 o > 2; Ml £ "f X ^.,^ ^^.^^^ ^ X^^^^y.-- :^a:^.^ ./^^ €p. >/^''^ . ?..^.^ .A>^ . '^A ^^. ^ <,x*^ry>/^ /i^yA^y/7 /A^-' , h ./: ... ^A.^ ://-^ ,^<.r<^. ! ^:l <'K-t .^Y-c^ »t/ --^-'-y- ANDRfi PASS AND PORTRAIT. Gen. Benedict Arnold issued a pass to Maj. John Andre of the British Army in name of "John Anderson," on Sept. 22, 1780, in order to protect his return, after his purchase of plans of West Point's defences. Andre was halted by Paulding, Williams and Van Wart, north of Tarrytown, Sept. 23rd ; papers discovered in stock- ings ; tried, and executed as a spy at Tappan, Oct. 2nd. Pen sketch made of himself night before death. HAMILTON'S MARRIAGE IN SCHUYLER MANSION. Alexander Hamilton married Gen. Philip Schuyler's daughter, Elizabeth, in the drawing-room of her father's mansion on Dec. 14, 1780. They met here when Hamilton was consulting with Schuyler and it was while his guest that he framed parts of the Constitution. No. 28. ABRAHAM TEN BROECK. 353 1781-1782. Mother Ann Lee. head of the Shaker settlement at Niskayuna, to the west of Alhany a few miles, sets out w'ith her followers for Harvard on a missionary tour. Rumor circulated for some weeks that the British intended to burn Albany and carry off Gen. Philip Schuyler, Col. Philip Van Rensselaer and Col. Peter Gansevoort, as prisoners. A band of Tories, Canadians and Indians break into the Schuyler Man- sion. General Schuyler, with family, seated in the evening ir the front hall with doors open on account of the extreme heat, is apprised of a person to see him at the back gate. The doors and windows are immediately barred ; but are broken in, and the family rush upstairs. Discovering that the infant, Catherine Van R. Schuyler, the godchild of Washington, had been for- gotten, asleep on the main floor, Mrs. Schuyler would rush back to save it, but the General intercepts, and the child's sister, Alargaret (who later marries Patroon Stephen Van Rensselaer) rushes wdth the sleeping babe only in time to escape up the stairs, while the Indian tomahawk misses its human mark and buries its blade in the balustrade. General Schuyler suddenly opens a door and trying a subterfuge, shouts : " Come on, my brave fellows ! Surround the damn'd rascals," whereupon Walter Meyer collects his men and they beat a precipitate re- treat, Aug, 7. Charter election. Common Council : Peter W. Yates, John Price, I. John Ja. Beeckman, John Hansen, II. Thomas Hun, Abraham Schuyler, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1782. Church services held in Dutch language only until this year. Aaron Burr (b. Newark, Feb. 6, 1756, and who mortally wounded Alexander Hamilton in a duel at Weehawken, N. J., on July 11, 1804) opens a law office on the north side of Norton street, the second door east of So. Pearl street. Creditors of the United States hold a session here. Stephen A^an Rensselaer (third of that name) having left Princeton because the British interrupted the continuation of the college course, at the age of 18 graduates at Harvard. Bank of Albany, the first organized in the city, with a capital of $75,000, opened, July lb. First issue of " The New York Gazetteer, or Northern Intelli- gencer," by Solomon Southwick and Charles R. Webster. 354 ABRAHAM TEN BROECK, No. 2S. 1782-1783, 1796. Charter election, Common Council : Cornells Cuyler, Peter W. Yates, J. John Ja. Beeckman, Philip van Rensselaer, II. Thomas Hun, Abraham Schuyler, III Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1783. Lord Stirling-, prominent figure in the American Revolution, (known commonly as \\'illiam Alexander) dies in this city, aged 57, having been born in New York city and considered the rightful heir to title and estates of an earldom in Scotland; major- general in the L^nited States service, Jan. 15. Andrew Elliott of Albany made lieutenant-governor, April 17. Johannes Jacobse Beeckman appointed ]Mayor of Albany by Gov. George Clinton. -tr -k -k ( See No. 29.) Continued from No. 31.) 1796. Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeed- ing Abraham Yates, Jun.. having been appointed by Gov. John Jay, Sept. 29. Whipping-posts abolished in the city. Newspapers comment m~ion the alacrity witli which cnmnnmication is had. only 3 days to Philadelphia, but four days for a letter to reach Boston, and to the uttermost point of the Union about 12 days. Charter election. Common Council : Arie Eagrange, Philip S. van Rensselaer. I. \'olckert Douw, Peter E. Elmendorf, II. Jere- miah Eansingh, Peter \\'. Douw, III. Election, Sept. 27; sworn in, Oct. II. A balloon. 54 feet in circumference, with small car. being made, in this city. Oct. 2y. Arch Street Brewery (later the All)any Prewing Co., existing in 1906) is established by James Boyd, on Arch street. SCHUYLER MANSION ATTACKED. On the night of Aug. 7, 1781, a band of Tories and Indians broke into Gen. Schuyler's Mansion intending to kidnap him. .a tomahawk at his daughter and it cut the balustrade. They hurled hi) u C LJ O :z; () [^ OJ u U XI 'o D l» n a; V) lU ,*_» ^ d _• O '~' .^ O X *^ X O C n o o3 r3 C t^ ^ O t^ 1') f^l u ■vD bo C f> Ih ^ * •n b/) tn 11 c a; ti o H o No. 28. ARRATIA^r TEN RROECK. 355. 1796-1797. Volney, celebrated traveler and philosopher, on his way from the West to the Southern states, visits Albany, Nov. 2. First camel ever brought to this city, exhibited by Messrs. Hewitt & Muller, November. John Jacob Beeckman advertises for proposals to build a new Dutch- church building on west side of No. Pearl street, November. River closed to navigation, official record, Nov. 26. L^nited States stores, ammimition and camion shipjjerl to West Point from the public stores on Court street, Nov. 27. Buildings at this time in the city number 1,093, Dec. i. Thermometer 20 degrees below zero, Dec. 24. Lighting the city during previous year required 344 gallons of oil, Dec. 31. 1797. Legislature convenes at the City Hall, Jan. 3. Ten Broeck Mansion, to the west of Ten Broeck street, erected for Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck, the Mayor, by his ward. Stephen Van Rensselaer, the work thereon being commenced. Temple Commandery No. 2, Knights Templar, instituted. Union College founded principally by a number of Albanians, Feb. 25. Stage line to New York reduces charges to $8. Temple Chapter, No. 5, R. A. M., instituted. Common Council bestows reward of $2.50 upon Barent De Rider for being the first at a fire on previous night with a hogshead of water, Jan. lo.. Albany made the permanent seat of state government as the capital, March 10. The Mayor lays the corner-stone of a building being erected for state offices at the southwest corner of State and Lodge streets, May 30. Benjamin Prescott endeavors to supply water from Maezlandt kill, in logs bored, and is given a grant by Stephen Van Rensselaer. Robert R. Livingston's small boat goes up the river under head of steam at the rate of three miles an hour. Fire destroys fifty houses on Montgomery, Dock, Steuben, North- Market (Broadway), Columbia and Middle Lane (James street), Aug. 4.- 356 AliRAHAM TEN BROECK. No. 28. 1797-1798. Corner-stone of St. J\Iar3^'s Church on Barrack (Chapel) street at the n. w. corner of Pine street, laid by Thomas Barry, a promi- nent merchant, Sept. 13. Subscription books of the turnpike road between Albany and Sche- nectady opened, Sept. 23. Isaac Robbins is imprisoned for life for passing a false receipt for money, September. Charter election. Common Council : Philip S. van Rensselaer, Henry J. Bogart, I. Peter E. Elmendorf, John N. Bleecker, II. San- ders Lansingh, Peter Gansevoort, III. Election, Sept. 26; sworn in, Oct. 10. Temple Lodge, No. 53 (later No. 14) of Masons, organized, Nov. II. River closed to navigation, official record, Nov. 23. Albany Museum established at the corner of Green and Beaver streets, opp. Denniston's Tavern that is on the n. w. corner, Dec. II. Lighting the city during year required 698 gallons of oil. 1798. Legislature convenes, Jan. 2. Schenectady incorporated. Han Joost, an Oneida warrior who was a distinguished volunteer under General Gansevoort at siege of Fort Stanwix, dies sud- denly, Jan. 14 Warrantee deeds granted on slaves in Albany. IMethodists make this city a station. North Dutch Reformed Church being built. Lebanon & Albany Turnpike company chartered. i^hilip VsLu Rensselaer, of Cherry Hill, south of city bounds, dies, March 12. Robert McClannan of this city appointed state treasurer, March 15. Ten Broeck Mansion completed, westward of Ten Broeck street, by Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck, the Mayor. Bank of Albany elects Jeremiah Van Rensselaer its (2nd) president, to succeed (jen. Abraham Ten Broeck. St. Mary's church completed to permit roofing it, Sept. 10. iLliphalet Nott ordained and installed pastor of the Presbyterian Church (First) at n. e. corner of So. Pearl an^ '-' F) C^ C 3 ^J" < "S at c o J3 bo < C/i U-' rO o O -d •"• c aj a C -T3 a; rt ^ •^ u r'J nl be >, tn O u ,_^ •o h(l rt 4) c pq C) rt •^ o u M 00 H H T! r^ iri JS PQ O ^ w C CI No. 28. ABRAHAM TEN UROECK. 357 1798. Charter election. Common Council : Philip S. van Rensselaer, Henry J. Bog-art, I. Barent G. Staats, Jeremiah Lansingh, II. San- ders Lansingh, Enoch Leonard, III. Election, Sept. 25 ; sworn i"- Oct. q. New North Dutch Church on west side o£ No. Pearl street, Putnam & Hooker the architects, completed, November. Philip Schuyler Van Rensselaer appointed the Mayor of Albany by Governor DeWitt Clinton, Dec. 2". ( See No. 32. No. 29. Jnliauu^s SarnliB^ Iri^rkman. June 27, 1783 Oct, 8, 1786. No. 29. JOIIANNI'.S jACOHSK HEECKMAN. Date of oOiiw June 27. 1783-October 8. 1786. Appointed hy: (.lovernor (leorge Clinton. Date of birth: August 8. 1733. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Jacob (H.) ami IX-bora TTanson. Iiiiitcatio>t: Cltx^cl scluH>lins;". Married /(>; Marii' SaniK'rs ( j^d. ilaii. oi ji,d Maxdi). d. Now J, I7»)4- Date: November 22, 1759. ihildreu: ( 7-- 3 s, .| d. ) Jacoh ( b. Aui^". 7. \yi^\ ; ni. Ann MoKin- noy, Sept. 30. 17S4: il. 1S17), Dobora ( b. X'ov. -M>, 17('3; ni. Johannes IVreyster, Hee. 22, 1787: d. July 23. 1701). r>ar- ent Saiulers (b. May 2, i7('7; d. l^ee. 2, 17()7). iMaebtel (or Matilda, b. Nov. 21, I7()S; ni. l>ou\v l"\Mida, Nov. 23, 1794; d.Oel. 3. 1837). .Sarah ( h. 1 \-e. o, 1771 ; d. March 15, 1702), !'"\')e (or b'tlic, h. |uly 2.[, 1774; d. IX'c (>. 1702), John San- ders ( b. Aul;. 23. 17S1 : d. Aui;. 13. 1701?). Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: December 17. 1802. Title: lUnu>rable. "No. 29 JOHANNES JACOBSE BEECKMAN. 361 1783-1784. (Continued from No. 28.) 1783. Johannes Jacobse Beeckman sworn as the Mayor of Albany, suc- ceeding Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck, having been appointed by Gov. George CHnton, June 27. " The Gazette," first newspaper pubHshed at Albany, enlarged, and Mr. Webster withdraws to go to New York, Mr. Ballantine continuing it. Mr. Ballantine prints the first copy of the " Pocket Almanac," for the year 1784, the first of its kind in the city, a copy of which is preserved in the State Library. George Washington a visitor, presented with freedom of the city at Hugh Denniston's tavern (first stone house in Albany — n. w. cor. Green and Beaver sts.), Aug. 4. Charter election, Common Council : Peter W. Yates, Cornelis Cuy- ler, I. Peter W. Douw, Philip van Rensselaer, II. Thomas Hun, John Ten Broeck, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1784. Displaying the strongest affection and confidence towards Gen. Philip Schuyler, General Washington, Commander-in-Chief, writes to him from Mount Vernon, as follows : '* Dear Sir — Your favor of the 20th of Dec. found me as you conjectured, by that fireside from which I have been too long absent for my own convenience ; to which I return with the greatest avidity, the moment my public avocations would permit ; and from which I hope never again to be withdrawn. While I am here solacing myself in my retreat from the busy scenes of life, I am not only made extremely happy by the gratitude of my countrymen in general but particularly so by the repeated proofs of the kindness of those who have been intimately con- versant with my public transactions, and I need scarcely add that the favorable opinion of no one is more acceptable than that of yourself. In recollecting the vicissitudes of fortune we have experienced, and the difficulties we have surmounted, I shall always call to mind the great assistance I have frequently received from you, both in your public and private character. May the blessings of peace amply reward your exertions ; may '^^^2 JUIIANNICS JACOliSIi: BEKCKMAN. No. 29. 1784. you and your faiuil)' ( lo wliniu ihr (•diupliuicMils of Mrs. Wash- iui^lou aud ui\si.'ll' air a 11 i.Hiiiiualrl\ prosi'ukMl) Ioul;' couliuue to i'uj(i\' (.'wry specie's ol" Iiappiurss tlic world cau alVord. With sciUiuiruls o! siuixTo csUh'ui, allac-huu'ut aud aUrcliou, I aui, \\'A\- Sir, \(>ur most ol)i'diciU \iT\- liuuihlr siTX'aul. (1. Wasll- in,^l"ii." Jau. 21. Tlu' posilioii lu'ld Iiy ( inu'ral .Sclunlcr iu llir public uiiud at this liiur luay W siiowii iu uo rlcarcr uu'lliod thau hy excerpts from the writiuys of a lew of this couutr\'s luost highly respected uieu, cliaracters who had uo idtiuior uiolixe for utteriui^' what sounds the keynote ol" ])raise iu the \ery siuceril\' aud I'orceful- ness of statement. Iu W'ashiu^tou lr\iu<;'s " Life of Washiui;- ton " appears tlie follow iuj; : " Wlu'u the tidings reached General \Vashiuj;tou of tlu' aetiou of the Congress in sui)erse(l- iui^' Schuyler (by dates) he wrote hiui immediately 'that he looked upon the whole scheme as diaholical,' that he re- i^arded it ' with sentiments of ahhorrence, havins:;" the utmost confidence in your integrity aud the most iucontestible proofs of your great attachment to your country.' Schuyler asked for a court-martial to sit on the case aud was full\- ac(|uilted, the in- formation being forwarded to General Washington by the court with an expression of hoi)e that ' Schuyler's name might be handed down to posterity as one of the pillars (d" the American cause.' " On finishing liis " Life of Washiuglt)U," Washington Irving regretted that he w\as " too old " to inulertake that of Schuyler. I^aniel \\'ebsler also expressed a desire to add at least "a chapter on General Schuyler to the History of the Revolution." lie writes as follows: " I was brought up with the New L^ngiand prejudices against him ; but I consider him as second only to Washington in the ser\ices he rendered to the country in the War of the Revohitiou. liis /eal and devo- tion to the cause under difliculties that would have paralysed most men. and his fortitude ami corn-age when assailed by mali- cious attacks upon his public ami pri\ate character, every one of which was proved to be false, have iuiiv.-cssed me with a strong desire lo express ]niblicly my sense of his great quali- ties." Horatio Sevuiour, once the Governor of New York, in his address delivere^l on the occasion of the Centennial celebra- tion of Burgoyne's surrender, held at Schnylerville in 1877, on the very sjiot where Schuyler's house and property had been destroyed by the Briti.sh, gave testimony again to (.General Schuyler's patriotism and unselfishness — "as the one figure which rises above all others, up«in whose conduct and bearing Ave love to dwell. There was one who won a triumph there GENERAL PHILIP SCHUYLER. No writer of American history and the Revolution omits the name of this famed Albanian. He was born at s. e. cor. State and Pearl sts. , Nov. ii, 1733, son of Mayor Johannes Schuyler, Jun. He built his fine mansion at head of Schuyler st. in 1761, and defended Albany against Burgoyne in 1777. He died Nov. 18, 1804. No. 29 JOHANNES JACOP.se BEECKMAN. 36; 1784. which never grows dim, one who gave an example of patience and patriotism unsurpassed on the pages of history, one who did not, under cutting wrongs and cruel suspicions, wear an air of martyrdom ; but with cheerful alacrity served when he should have commanded." Mrs. Lamb, in her History of New York, writes : " In this connection the figure of Philip Schuyler rises grandly above all others — he uttered no complaint at seeing his laurels won by another ! He even congratulated Gates who had displayed no professional skill whatever." " Webster's Calendar " or the " Albany Almanac " first published. Agricultural Society formed. Regents of the University of the State of New York created by Act of Legislature, May i. Post-Office first established on the east side of North Market street (Broadway), north of Maiden Lane, May. Simeon DeWitt appointed State surveyor-general, May 13. Henry, McClallen & Henry, next door north of City Hall (northeast corner of Broadway and Hudson street) advertise that for pay- ment of the formidable array of goods named they will accept wheat, corn, pease, flax, seeds, board, planks and any sort of furs. "The Albany Gazette" of 1771, that was discontinued about 1776, started again by Charles R. Webster, as a weekly. May 28. Dr. Samuel Stringer advertises that he has received an importation from Europe of an assortment of medicines at his medicinal store, west side of Broadway above Maiden Lane. John McClintock advertises that in June he will open a school at the southwest corner of Maiden Lane and James street. Luther Society incorporated, using edifice of 1668 on the west side of So. Pearl street, between Howard and Beaver streets. Elder William Lee, of the Niskayuna Shakers, dies, June. In celebration of independence a salute of thirteen guns was fired from Fort Orange at sunrise, and there were illuminations at night, July 4. Mons. Duonpres opens a school for dancing " on the most modern terms of one guinea entrance, and one guinea a quarter." July 14. The Dutch Ambassador, Haere P. J. Van Berckel, accompanied by the governor, arrives and is received at the City Hall amid a discharge of cannon (to be given a banquet the next day at Lewis tavern) and numerous citizens call, July 22. Governor Clinton leaves Albany to attend the Indian treaty to be held at Fort Schuyler, where the chiefs were assembling, August. 364 JOHANNES JACOBSE BEECKMAN. No. 29. 1784-1785. School opened by Nicholas Barrington and announces " money being very scarce, at the low prices of lo, 12 and 14s. per quarter, for spellers, writers and scypherers, and three pounds for bookkeep- ing and navigation." Sept. 8. Funeral of Mother Ann Lee, (Mrs. Lee), known as the Elect Lady, or Mother of Zion, head of the Shakers, who died on Sept. 8th at Nisqueunda, (Niskayuna), Sept. 9. Elder James Whittaker succeeds Mother Ann Lee at the Shaker settlement of Niskayuna, a few miles west of the city, September. The Governor and Indian commissioners return from Fort Schuyler, having concluded a treaty with the Six Nations, Sept. 13. Marquis of Lafayette returns from Fort Stanwix, to depart next day for Boston, whence he is to sail for France, Oct. 7. Charter election, Common Council : Peter W. Yates, Robert McClallen, L Philip van Rensselaer, Peter W. Douw, IL Thomas Hun, John Ten Broeck, IIL Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Isaac Arnold and James Stewart return from a trading expedition to Detroit, having lost three companions, Jacobus Teller, Daniel Barclay, Isaac Van Alstyne, who were murdered on Lake Erie by DelaAvare Indians, Oct. 18. " A likely negro wench '' offered for sale at auction by the execu- tors of Mrs. Margaret Schuyler, held at Lewis' Tavern, Oct. 21. City authorities propose the demolition of Fort Frederick, at head of Yonkers (State) street. First copy of " Webster's Calendar," or " The Albany Almanac," ready for sale, Nov. 8. Alexander Robertson, publisher of the first Albany newspaper, " The Gazette," dies at Port Roseway, Nova Scotia, Nov. 8. Annual fair for vending cattle inaugurated, Nov. 19. Wendell and Trotter engage in sale of drygoods at southeast corner of So. Market street (Broadway) and Division. 1785. Shakers of Niskayuna build west of Albany the first edifice ever used by the society for worship. Health of the city so good that there was but one burial, and that a child accidentally run over by a sleigh, in the Dutch church- yard, from Dec. 9th to March 10. " MOTHER ANN'S " TOMB. ^ Mother Ann Lee was the founder of Shakers in America. She was born at Manchester, Eng., Feb. 29, 1736; illiterate; married a blacksmith named Standley, 1762. and began preaching ceHbacy ; estabHshed colony in Niskayuna woods, west of Albany, and died there Sept. 8, 1784. No. 29. JOHANNES JACOBSE BEECKMAN. 365 1785. Close of session of Supreme Court at which Christian Cooper and Petrus Cooper are sentenced to death on conviction of robbery. EHhu Goodrich and John Ely open a school in Michael HoUenbake's house, teaching- Greek and Latin for 40s a cjuarter; grammar, arithmethic and writing for 30s, and reading" for 20s. Isaac Van Wyck, Talmage Hall and John Kinney given exclusive right to drive stage on roads east of the Hudson. Common Council decides to abandon the names of streets that savor of the English rule and appoints a committee to consider new titles and a plan for numbering, March 19. Volckert Petrus Douw sent to the U. S. Senate, his appearance at the time being a man of 6 feet 2 inches, erect, handsome, clean- shaven, firm mouth, piercing eye, wearing a long-waisted coat with skirts to ankles, adorned with silver buckles made of Span- ish coins, buckles on shoes set with rhinestones, a cocked hat, silver-headed cane, hair in a queue and powdered. Isaac Van Wyck, Talmage Hall and John Kinney granted exclusive right to run a stage line between Albany and New York, for 10 years, on agreeing to provide two stages properly covered, drawn, by four horses, and to charge not more than 4 pence per mile, allowance for 14 pounds of baggage free, April 4. Common Council hears report on new names for the streets, and a map is ordered made to show the titles as altered, April 9. City authorities authorize the demolition of Fort Frederick at the head of State street, and using of the stone for public improve- ments, and the clergy of various churches to be allowed material of the walls with which to build their churches. Sloop Experiment, Captain Stewart Dean, (after whom Dean street was to be named) sails on his memorable voyage to China. Common Council passes an ordinance for extermination of all dogs within two days, fixing a penalty of $40, July 12. Charter election. Common Council : Peter W. Yates, Robert McClallen, T. Philip van Rensselaer, Peter W. Douw, II. John Ten Broeck, Thomas Hun, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. Rev. John McDonald installed by the First Presbyterian Society, Nov. 8. Preparations for a theatrical performance begun, carpenters fitting up the old hospital as a theatre, a thing unknown at Albany, and the following appears in " The Gazette :" " By authority. On Friday Evening, the 9th of December, 1785, The Theatre in the City of x^lbany, will be opened with an Occasional Pro- 366 JOHANNES JACOBSE BEECKMAN. No. 29. 1785-1786. logue, by Air. Allen. After which will be presented, A Comedy in Two Acts call'd Cross Purposes. . . . After the comedy, An Eulogy on Free Alasonry, by Brother Moore. To be fol- lowed by a Dance called La Polonese, by Mr. Bellair. To con- clude with a Comedy of Three Acts written by Shakespeare, caird Catharine and Petruchio, or, The Taming of the Shrew. . . . Doors will be opened at Five o'Clock and the perform- ance to begin precisely at Six. Tickets (without which no person can be admitted) to be had at Mr. Lewis's Tavern — as no money will be received at the door. Box 8 s. Gallery 4 s. No person to be admitted behind the scenes. N. B. Stoves are to be provided for the boxes." Dec. 5. The Theatre not in readiness, and the religiously inclined inhabitants having written an acrid petition to the Mayor and Common Council demanding that the performance be not permitted, end- ing with the reason that it " will drain us of our money, if not instil into the minds of the imprudent, principles incompati- ble with that virtue which is the true basis of republican liberty and happiness," consequently the performance is postponed, Dec. 9. Common Council votes 9 to 4 to allow the comedians to act, resolv- ing : " That in the Opinion of this Board, they have not a Legal Right to prohibit the Company of Comedians in this City from exhibiting their Theatrical performances." Dec. 12. Those who opposed the performance aroused by the action of the Common Council write to The Gazette denouncing the giving of theatricals in Albany, saying the people were too poor after the war to go to them, and " when we find this darling vice encouraged in the first, and patronized in the second city of the state, and rearing its ensigns in each corner thereof, is it not high time for considerate inhabitants, to step forth and oppose the increasing evil with firmness and resolution, ere it be too late." December. 1786. Houses in the city number 550, January. The first professional comedians play during December and Jan- uary, into February, two performances each week, The Gazette No. 20. JOHANNES JACOBSE BEECKMAN. 367 1786. saying- editorially : " In justice to the Company, we cannot omit mentioning', that their conduct has been such as to meet with the approbation of the city in general," and they leave for Montreal, Feb. 20. Common Council appealed to by Lutherans, who had been worship- ping with the Episcopalians, through Rev. Heinrich Moeller (receiving salary of $250 and firew^ood) for the right to solicit funds to erect a church, which is granted, March. River open to navigation, March 23. Columbia county formed by partition from Albany county, April I. Act passed by the Legislature erecting the southeast part of the County of Albany into a new county to be known as Columbia, April 4. Supreme Court sessions close, Caleb Gardner having been sentenced to hang for passing counterfeit Spanish dollars, Ji-ilv 5 Sheriff advertises for some one to hang on Sept. 15th, the recently convicted Caleb Gardner, July 19. Albany celebrates the centennial anniversary of its chartering as a city. The Common Council on July 15th appointed the fol- lowing as a committee to formulate a program, Philip S. Van Rensselaer, Peter W. Yates, aldermen, and John W. Wendell, Richard Lush and Jellis Winne, assistant aldermen, who re- ported on the iStli and the following ceremony was carried out: Tlie Common Council convenes at 10 a. m., at the City Hall on So. Market street (Broadway) and Hudson avenue, and proceeds up Yonkers street (State) to the hill westward of the city, with all the bells ringing, in the order — ^ist, the High Sherifif; 2nd, the Under Sheriffs; 3rd, Constables with their Staffs; 4th, Mayor Johannes Jacobse Beeckman and Recorder Leonard Gansevoort ; 5th, Aldermen ; 6th. Common Council ; 7th, Chamberlain and Clerks; 8th, Marshal; 9th, Corporations of the several churches ; loth, Judges of the several courts ; nth, justices of the peace; 12th, Legislative members; Attorneys at law; r3th. Militia officers; 14th, The Engine & Fire Company; 15th, Citizens at Large. Arriving at the place designated the officials named drink thirteen toasts and one for the Charter, while is heard the discharge of thirteen cannon. At 6 p. m. the Board partakes of an elaborate banquet at Lewis' City Tavern, being supplied with " a Barrel of Good Spirits for the purpose," as voted by the Council on July i8th, so that, as The Gazette 358 JOHANNES JACOBSE BEECKMAN. No. 29. 1786. states, " The countenances of the inhabitants bespoke great sat- isfaction on the occasion." July 22. City employs workmen to remove the embankments of earth that had been cast up about Fort Frederick, that Yonkers (State) street might be widened now that the fort was gone, Sept. 15. Caleb Gardner hanged in the City Hall for passing counterfeit money, Sept. 15. John Lansing, Jun., commissioned the Mayor of Albany by Gov. George Clinton, Sept. 29. • • • (See No. 30.) No. 30. 3nlfn ICaustug, Sixxx, Oct. 9, 1766 — Oct. 18, 1790. No. 30. JOHN LANSING, JUN. Date of oHicc: October 9, 1786-October 18, 1790. Date of appointment: September 29, 1786. Appointed by: Governor George Clinton. Date of birth: (Bap.) February 3, 1754. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Gerrit J. (L.) and Jannetje Waters. Education: Good schooling. Married to: Cornelia Ray. Date: April 8, 1781. Children: (10-2 s. 8 d.) Robert (1783), Jane (1785), Sara (1787), Robert Ray (1788), Frances (1791), Elizabeth (1793), Sara and Cornelia (twins, 1795), Sara (1797), Mary (1800). Residence: North corner Broadway and Steuben street. Occupation: Lawyer. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: December 12, 1829. Place of death: New York, N. Y. Place of burial: Cnknown. Accidently drowned boarding boat to Albany, or waylaid. Title: Chancellor. Remarks: Delegate to convention framing Lmited States Constitu- tion, March 6, 1787. Member State Constitutional Conven- tion, 1788. » ^o. JOHN LANSING, Jun. 17S6-1790. From the etching hy Alliert Rosenthal in 1888 made from the oil painting o.vned by Thomas Addis Emmet in 1885. No. 30. JOHN LANSING, JUN. 37I 1786-1787. (Continued from No. 29.) 1786. John Lansing', Jun., sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeeding Johannes Jacobse Beeckman, having been appointed by Gov. George CHnton, Oct. 9. Charter election, Common Council : Robert McClannen, John Price, I. Peter W. Douw, Henry Ten Eyck, II. Thomas Hun, Leon- ard Gansevoort, III. Election, Sept. 29 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. Lutherans raising funds to build edifice on So. Pearl street. Ferry rights bring the city $650 for the year, December. 1787. Population of the state 220,000 whites, 18,889 slaves and 12 Indians who paid taxes. Assize of bread fixed in this city at i lb. 12 oz. for 4 coppers January. Regiment of militia raised in the eastern part of Rensselaerswyck Manor under command of Lieut. -Col. John V^an Rensselaer, the officers taking the oath of allegiance before Clerk Matthew Visscher, June 28. Election of Aldermen changed to the last Tuesday in September every year by Act of Legislature, March 21. Sloop Enterprise returns from its long journey to China, April. Rev. John Bassett made a colleague of Rev. Eilardus Westerlo at the Dutch Reformed Church, July- Lutherans erect their church on the west side of So. Pearl street, north of the Ruttenkill, between Beaver and Nail (Howard) streets. Rensselaerswyck militia provided with uniforms as follows : Com- missioned officers, dark blue coats faced with white, and white under-clothes ; non-commissioned officers and privates, a white linen hunting-shirt and overalls, a round hat three inches in the brim, bound with white tape and covered with a piece of bear- skin four inches wide over the crown ; a good musket, bayonet and cartouch-box, 24 cartridges suitable to the bore of the musket, two spare flints, one knapsack and blanket, August. 372 JOHN LANSING, JUN. No. 30. 1787-1788. Charter election, Common Council : Robert McClannen, John Price, I. Peter W. Douw, Henry Ten Eyck, II. Thomas Hun, Leon- ard Gansevoort, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 14. First academies incorporated at Albany by the Regents, Erasmus Hall at Flatbush and Clinton Hall at Easthampton, Nov. 20. John Bradstreet Schuyler, son of Gen. Philip Schuyler, marries Eliz- abeth Van Rensselaer, daughter of Stephen Van Rensselaer, Jr., the Patroon, and Catherine Livingston, who was the daugh- ter of Philip Livingston, the " Signer.'' Gen. Philip Schuyler gives his country seat in Saratoga county to ]:is son John Bradstreet Schuyler. Dec. 3. 1788. Leonard de Neufville, Jan Heefke and Ferdinand Walfahrt, who are endeavoring to manufacture glass at Douwsburg (or Dowes- borough) make an appeal to the state for support, claiming that too much money is being sent away for glass that might be given to home labor, and that their product is superior to the English, January. Albany Journal, or Montgomery, Washington and Columbia Intelli- gencer published first by Charles R. and George Webster, Jan. 26. Claxton & Babcock come from Lansingburg and publish The Federal Herald, Feb. 11. Watervliet organized, March 7. Legislature authorizes city to raise $io,odo for new Jail, March 11. Newspaper called The Albany Register begun by Robert Barber. Thaddeus Lawrence being confined in the top floor of the City Hal! because of back rent of $100 due to a wealthy citizen, sends out a petition that as he is an expert shoeman he desires repairing to do in order that he may liberate himself. New York state ratifies in convention the articles of the Constitution by a vote of 30 to 2.y, seven not voting, July 26. Citizens meet to consider celebrating the ratification of the United States Constitution by the New York convention, July 28. Public celebration at Albany of the ratification of the Constitution, a gun fired at sunrise, at 10 a. m., 11 guns fired to assemble to the fields near Water-Vliet ; at 10:30. one gun for forming proces- sion; II a. m., procession moves, saluting the Constitution; No. 30. JOHN LANSING, JUN. 373 1788. parade formed as follows : Albany Troop of Light-Horse com- manded by Captain Gansevoort, officers and men uniformed, music, Constitution engrossed on parchment suspended upon a staff and borne by Ma j. -Gen. Philip Schuyler on horseback; standard of the United States carried by Col. John H. Wendell ; 1 1 citizens representing each state that had ratified the Consti- tution, bearing" a parchment scroll with name of the state in large letters ; axe-men with garlands of laurels ; an elegant plough guided by Stephen Van Rensselaer ; sowers, John Cuy- ler, and Capt. Jacob Lansing; a neat harrow guided by Francis Nicoll ; farmers neatly dressed with implements of husbandry ; Gerrit Witbeck carrying the Farmers' flag bearing the motto " God speed the Plough ;" Brewers with a dray carrying a butt, astride of which is Master Van Rensselaer in the character of Bacchus, with a silver beaker in his hand ; following which w^ere printers, watch-makers, weavers and various tradesmen. The procession moved through Water-Miet street. Market (Broad- way) and State street to the Federal Bower, reached at 12:30 o'clock, erected on the highest land of the hill west of Fort Frederick, and the flags of the divisions were struck in the battlements, the edifice being 154 feet long and 44 feet broad, raised upon four rows of pillars 15 feet high, composing ii arches wreathed in flowers, the centre medallion of all inscribed " New York." Here the tables had been spread with viands and American cheer by William Van Ingen, and as each toast was given a gun was fired ; the Marshal was James Fairlie and assistants, Thos. L. Witbeck, Casparus Hewson, John Cuyler, Jun., and John Bleecker. On returning to disband, when the column had reached Green street a party of anti-Federalists ran out and assaulted the procession, and as a cannon was about to be discharged upon it Jonathan Kidney drove the end of a file into the fuse and prevented disaster, whereupon the Light-Horse charged upon the mob and disbursed it ; but so fierce had been the struggle that a prominent citizen, James Caldwell, was hurt by a brick that struck his head and a part of the Stone House was torn away to furnish missiles, Aug. 8. Stage line started to Springfield, Mass. Charter election, Common Council : Peter W. Yates, Peter Lan- singh, L Henry Ten Eyck, Theodorus V. W. Graham, H. Thomas Hun, Leonard Gansevoort. Jun. Election, Sept. 24; sworn in, Oct. 14. 374 JOHN LANSING, JUN. No. 30. 1789. 1789. Thermometer 24 degrees below zero, Jan. 2. The freeholders of Vanderheyden's or Ashley's Ferry, a place situ- ated some six miles above Albany and upon the east bank of the Hudson, meet and by a majority vote decide to call the place Troy, Jan. 5. Council orders Town Whipper to conduct executions at $100 yearly, Jan. 30. Johannes De Peyster, who had been Albany's i6th Mayor (b. Jan. 10, 1694, at New Amsterdam), holding many offices and among them Member of Provincial Assembly, Indian Commissioner, Recorder, Inspector of Ordnance, first Surrogate of Albany county. Paymaster of New York's forces in the Revolution, Captain of Horse, the son of IMayor Johannes De Peyster of New York, dies at Albany, Feb. 2,^. Legislature grants Ananias Piatt exclusive right to conduct a stage- line to Lansingburg, April 21. The Albany Gazette, begun six years previous, now published twice a week, May 25. Publication of the Albany Journal and Columbia Intelligencer dis- continued. May 25. State Legislature convenes the third time at Albany, July 6. The Common Council desiring to group the church burial-grounds at one location appointed Thomas Hun and T. V. W. Graham a committee to select a common cemetery, for at this time the Episcopal churchyard extended from Yonkers (State) street northward across Maiden Lane, the Lutherans had theirs at the corner of Washington (So. Pearl) and Beaver streets, that of the Presbyterians was east of its church which was near the corner of Grand street and Hudson avenue, and the Dutch Re- formed was about its church on the south side of Beaver, near Green street. The committee reports in favor of a plat border- ing on Eagle, Lancaster and State streets, the site of the burned barracks, and on which there was a vault, the strip to the east to be used by the Presbyterians, one acre, the next acre strip to the Episcopalians, the next westward to the Lutherans, half of the next strip to the Reformed High Dutch or German Re- 13 o c 0) 3 H CI >. 0< i~t (U H Xi n t/j m CO cc; XI -^ V -— ' w '*^ n !Jh XI tL> nj J3 •5 *^ ^^ i> "5 ^ > V a ^ '/I (J < No. 30. JOHN LANSING, JUN. 375 1789-1790. formed, and the remaining half acre with the most western acre strip to the Dutch church, Sept. 19. At a term of the Supreme Court held here beginning in July, six were convicted and ordered to be given 39 lashes each at the public whipping-post before the City Hall (Broadway and Hud- son ave.} and Francis Uss, convicted of robbing a store at Poughkeepsie to be publicly hanged, September. ]''erry street in south part of city opened to Washington (So. Pearl) street. Charter election. Common Council : Peter Lansingh, John de Pey- ster Ten Eyck, I. Henry Ten Eyck, Abraham Cuyler, H. Leon- ard Gansevoort, Philip Lansingh, HI. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, / ' Oct. 13.' 1790. Methodists erect a small building for their services at the southeast corner of No. Pearl and Orange streets (standing in 1906) called the chapel of the society, organized by Capt. T. Webb of the British army. Population of the city about 3,506. Albany county's population (with larger limits than in 1900} about 75,180; New York, 30,032; Dutchess, 42,235, being the three largest in the state at the time, with Albany the greatest and larger than the next two largest combined. Population of New York state 340.120. Slaves in this state at this time number 21,324. First licensed auctioneer's office opened, Cornelius J. Wynkoop at No. 8 Market street, ' January. Rensselaerville formed from Watervliet, March 8. Legislature allows proprietors of Mills and Papskni islands to erect a dam to shut out the water course between them and by direct- mg the water into the main channel clear the Overslaugh, April 2. Gypsum is introduced as a fertilizer by Chancellor Livingston. Synod of New York and New Jersey erect a new Presbytery in this part of the state to be known as the Presbytery of Albany and to convene for the first time in November. Z7^ JOHN LANSING, JUN. No. 30. 1790. Names of streets changed at this time : Canal from Howe to Fox, Orange from Wall to Hare, State' from Prince to Deer, Knox from Gage to Swallow, Elm from Pitt to Otter, Park avenue from Monckton to Mink, Madison avenue from Wolfe to Wolf, Robin from Schoharie to Duck, Washington avenue from King to Lion, Hudson avenue from Quiter to Buffaloe, Hudson ave- nue from Schenectade to Snipe, Lancaster from Predeaux to Tiger, Elk changed from Queen, Eagle from Duke, Hawk from Hawke, Swan from Boscawen, Dove from Warren, Lark from Johnson, Sept. 1 1. St. Peter's church deeded site o£ its third edifice at the northwest corner of State and Lodge streets by the city, in exchange for land formerly used by the church and required for street pur- poses. Seal of the city with arms, (since discovered affixed to records) in early use on a map of a portion of Albany made by Simeon De Witt, made this year. Charter election, Common Council : Peter Lansingh, John de Pey- ster Ten Eyck, L Henry Ten Eyck, Abraham Cuyler, H. Philip Lansingh, Leonard Gansevoort, Jun. Election, Sept. 28 ; sworn in, Oct. 12. Abraham Yates, Jun., appointed the Mayor of Albany, Oct. 13. (See No. 31.) No. 31. Abraljam f atrs, 3un. Oct. 19, 1790 — Oct. 14, 1796. No. 31. ABRAHAAI YATES, JUN. Date of office: October 19, 1790-October 14, 1796. Date of appointment: October 13, 1790. Appointed by: Governor George Clinton. Date of birth: August 23, 1724. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Christoffel (Y.) and Catalyntje Winne. Education: Good schooling. Married to: Antje De Ridder. Place: Albany. Children: (4 s.) Christoffel (1747). Christoffel (1748), Tanneke (1750), Cornelis (1753!). Occupation : Financier. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: June 30, 1796. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Albany County Sheriff', 1754-55. Deputy to Provincial Convention of New York, April, 1775. President pro tern. I St Provincial Congress, 1775. Deputy to 2d and 3d Pro- vincial Congresses, 1775, 1776. Member of committee,. Provincial Congress, to prepare form of government, com- mittee of thirteen, 1776-77. Member of Council of Appoint- ment, 1777. Member of Council of Safety, 1777-78. State Senator, ist to 13th sessons, inclusive, 1777-92. City Receiver, 1778-79. First Postmaster of Albany, 1783. Dele- gate to Continental Congress, 1787-88. Patriotic, energetic in city affairs. 31. ABRAHAM YATES, Jun. I 790- I 796. From a photograph of the oil painting by Robert, that was owned in 1890 by Senator Abraham Lansing of Albany. No. 31. ABRAHAM YATES, J UN. 379 1790-1791. (Continued from No. 30.) 1790. Abraham Yates, Jun., sworn as the Mayor of Albany, succeeding John Lansing, Jun., having been appointed such on Oct. 13th, by Gov. George CHnton, Oct, 19. River closed to navigation, Dec. 8. Dominie Eilardus Westerlo, who came to this country from Holland in the latter part of 1760 to be the pastor of the Reformed Dutch Churcli of this city, which office he held for 31 years with great respect for his piety and learning and had married the widow of Stephen Van Rensselaer, aged 53 years (buried in the Van Rensselaer family vault) dies, Dec. 26. Population of the towns of Albany county at this time : Albany, 3,506; Ballston, 6,823; Cambridge, 4,967; Cattskill, 1,988; Cox- sakie, 3,416; Duanesburgh, 1,495; Easton 2,502; Frceliold. 1,748; Halfmoon, 3,607; Hosack, 3,033 ; Pittstown, 2,425 ; Rens- selaer-ville, 2,777; Rensselaerswyck, 8,048; Saratoga. 3,081; Schaticook, 1,617; Schenectady, 4,317; Schohary, 2,069; Ste- phentown, 7,042 ; Stillwater, 3.052 ; Water-Vliet, 7,667 ; total, 75,180, (from which transcription of the list of the time stated, in 1900 seems odd that some of the small towns had twice the population of Albany.), Dec. 31. 1 791. Troy chartered as a village, having at this time some 70 shops. By Act of Legislature Albany loses a large portion of her territory as a county in the formation of Saratos^a and Rensselaer coun- ties being formed therefrom ; the part east of the Hudson named Rensselaer, with 29,634 inhabitants ; that north of the Mohawk named Saratoga, with 17,463 inhabitants; and what is left of Albany county with 28,192 inhabitants, and at the same time the town of Rensselaerswyck was divided into two towns, Feb. 7. Coeymans formed from Watervliet, March 18. 380 ABRAHAM YATES, JUN. No. 3I. 1791-1792. First mail route by stage-coach established with Bennington, Vt., on its 30th anniversary of its settlement, Alarch 25. River open to navigation, March 27. Colonic set apart as a district, ]March 31. Sloop Nancy makes trip to New York and back in 7 days, April. Printers refuse to buy rags because of smallpox epidemic, April 18. Earthquake shock felt at 10 a. m.. May 16. .raving of No. Market street (Broadway) uses so many thousand loads of cobble-s that there is a dearth of that sort of stone, June. Many emigrants to the " Far West." as the Genesee valley is termed, passing through the city from New England states, June. Samuel Cook, aged 84 years, condemned to be hanged for forgery, June. Market built on No. Market street (Broadway) between Yonkers (State) street and Maiden Lane, costing $1,110. Fredenrich meat market (of 1900) established by John C. Freden- rich on No. Market street near Maiden Lane. John Stewart, famous English pedestrian who had toured on foot Europe, Asia and Africa, arrives here on his way to Canada, July 28. Methodists erecting their first edifice at the s. e. cor. Orange and No. Pearl streets, a wooden building, August. Dominie John Bassett publishes his collection of " Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs," for the use of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church in North America, September. Erie canal conceived by Elkanah Watson, who explores the ground from Schnectady to Geneva. Charter election. Common Council : Peter Lansingh, John W. Wen- dell, L Jacob Bleecker, Jun., John N. Bleecker, IL Abraham Schuyler, Samuel Stringer, IIL Election, Sept. 27; sworn in, Oct. II. River closed to navigation, Dec. 6. Citizens hold a meeting and form an association they style the Albany Library, each subscribing $25, Dec. 20. 1792. Citizens of this city start subscriptions to erect a college on a public square in Albany to be selected (resulting in establishment of Union College), Jan. 4. No. 31. ABRAHAM YATES, JUN. 381 1792. Fire-engine to be pumped by hand (the second had been bought in 1763) purchased of John JNlason of Philadelphia and installed in a shed at the n. w. corner of the old English church in Yonk- ers (State) street. Post-road established by Congress from this city, through Sche- nectady to Canajoharie and fixing the rate of postage that may be charged, Feb. i. Men of wealth assemble at Robert Lewis' City Tavern (s. e. cor. State and Pearl streets) to discuss establishing a bank in this city, there never having been any institution of the sort, at which Jeremiah Van Rensselaer presides, and a committee is named to formulate the plans, consisting of Cornelius Glen, John Tay- ler, Daniel Hale, Gerrit W. Van Schaick and Abraham Van Vechten, Feb. 3. The financial men hold a second meeting at Lewis' Tavern and de- cide to call the proposed institution the " Albany Bank." Feb. 10. Subscription books for the proposed Albany Bank opened at the City Tavern, with deposits of $15 per share, which are over- run in less than three hours, Feb. 17. Presbyterian, first church in Rensselaerville, Rev. Samuel Fuller, established. Incorporation of the Albany Library as " The Trustees of the Albany Library," which had been organized on Dec. 20th, 1791, naming as such trustees: Abraham Ten Broeck, John Lansing, Jun., Philip Schuyler, Stephen V^n Rensselaer, Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, Thomas Ellison, John McDonald, James Fairlie, Daniel Hale, Hunloke Woodruff, Goldsbrow Banyar, and Stephen Lush, with Abraham Ten Broeck as president, James Van Ingen as treasurer and first librarian, Feb. 24. Because of the insurrection of the blacks on plantations of island of Hispanola a society is organized here to manufacture maple sugar, and 8,000 kettles, holding 100 pounds, are made to be sold here and throughout the state, Feb. 25. Albany Bank elects directors : Philip Schuyler, Abraham Ten Broeck, Stephen Van Rensselaer, Goldsbrow Banyar, Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, Cornelius Glen, Daniel Hale, John Maley, James Caldwell, John Stevenson, Stephen Lush, Albert Pawling and John Sanders, Feb. 27. River open to navigation, March 17. Bank of Albany incorporated, April 10. Greenbush (Indian term Tuscameatic-Aet, or Green Bosch, Pine Woods"), a town, April 10. Bank of Albany elects Abraham Ten Broeck president, June 12. 382 ABRAHAM YATES, J UN. No. 3 1. 1792-1793. Joseph Brant, celebrated Indian warrior, on his way to transact busi- ness of national import at Philadelphia, passes through, June. Bank of Albany opens at the third house from State street on east side of No. Pearl street (No. ii in 1900) with Gerrit W. Van Schaick its first cashier, July 16. Third Albany newspaper, Norther Intelligencer, started by Sol. Bal- lentine and C. R. Webster. Mineral spring with supposedly great mineral value discovered on the hill across the river, July. Directors of the Northern Inland Lock Navigation Co., with Philip Schuyler president, meet and discuss making a survey between the Hudson and the streams leading to Lake Champlain, assisted by a Scotchman named Nesbit who understood the science of canals, July 27. Western Inland Lock Navigation Co., organizes, choosing Philip Schuyler president and Barent Bleecker the treasurer, intending to improve the Mohawk to Little Falls, Aug. 11. South ferry pays the city for year's lease, $5,890. Charter election. Common Council : Peter Lansingh, John W. Wen- dell, I. John N. Bleecker, Isaac D. Fonda, II. Abraham. Schuyler, Samuel Stringer, III. Election. Sept. 25 ; sworn in, Oct. 9. Stage line started to Whitestone in Oneida county, 100 miles, leaving from the office of the Gazette, and Messrs. Webster ofifer to for- ward letters gratuitously, December. River closed to navigation, Dec. 12. 1793. Fire ranks, a line of men, women and youths, ordered to pass up and return fire-buckets, each house required to hang three' buckets in its hall way and attend fires, the engines being filled by these buckets and then thrown by handpumping. Albany Mechanics Society organized with John W. Wendell presi- dent, for relief of the widows and orphans, which for many years was to do good service, Jan. 10. Regents recommend establishment of common school system. Specimens of maple sugar product shown before the Legislature, and bill introduced to grant premiums on sugar from the maple of from 2 to 4 cents per pound, February. Ref'd Dutch Church CRev. Jacob Sickles) established, Coeymans, 'March 5. No. 31. ABRAHAM YATES, JUN. 383 1793. Chains stretched across So. Pearl street by consent of the Common Council barring vehicles passing the First Presbyterian Church during services. River opened to navigation, March 6. Society for Promotion of Agriculture, Arts and Manufactures (the original of one of the bodies later forming the Albany Insti- tute) chartered. Bethlehem erected a township and is taken from Watervliet, March 12. Common Council passes ordinance that no gutters henceforth shall project as they had since ancient times, far out into the street from the eaves, drenching passersby, May. Legislature grants a loan of 3,000 Eng. pounds for eight years to the glass manufactory at a place called the Glass House, eight miles west of the city, owned by McClallen, McGregor & Co., in which firm were James Caldwell and Christopher Batterman. Bank of Albany after a year in operation declares a dividend of $4.25 per share, the shares selling originally by subscription for $15, May 14. First stage line connection with Ballston, opened by John Hudson of Schenectady and John Rogers of Ballston, but running to this city, July 10. Moses Beal starts a stage line to Schenectady, Johnstown and Cana- joharie, leaving twice a week, fare 3 cents per mile, J^'^h'- River front leases in perpetuity started. Methodist church erected at Coeymans. Ezra Ames, celebrated local portrait painter, opens a studio in Mark Lane, August Reverdy Randolph and Timothy Pickering, two of the commission- ers who had been sent to treat with the far west Indians, hostile in nature, return and report that the Indians had insisted that the western boundary of the United States be the Ohio river, Sep. 6. Hon. Jacob Coenraedt Ten Eyck, who had been the 22nd Mayor of Albany, (1748-1750) a man of wealth and integrity of char- acter. Member of Committee of Safety, Commissioner of In- dian Affairs, Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, and who was born at Albany on Apr. 21, 1705, the son of Coenraedt Ten Eyck and Geertje Van Schaick, dies, Sept. 9. Citizens agitate the matter of lighting the streets with lamps, Sept. 12. A committee of physicians call upon " Col. Alexander Hamilton and his lady " who had come from Philadelphia and were guests at the Schuyler Mansion, because of the prevalence of yellow 384 ABRAHAM YATES, JUN. No. 3 1. 1793-1794. fever in that city, and report them to he in excellent health and nnlikelv to spread the pestilence among citizens, Sept. 2^^. Charter election for aldermen and assistants of the six wards, Sept. 24. Charter election, Common Council: Abraham Ten Eyck, Philip S. van Rensselaer, I. John N. Bleecker, Jacob J. Lansingh, II. Jeremiah Lansingh, Dirck Ten Broeck, III. Election, Sept. 24; sworn in, Oct. 14. Stage line inaugurated to Northampton " crossing mountains that had hitherto been considered an insurmountable route," November. One of the largest fires ever experienced at Albany, starting in the stable of Leonard Gansevoort and consuming most of the block bounded by Broadway, Maiden Lane, James and State streets, principally along Broadway, and the Gazette office at No. 36 State street, John Maley the chief loser, loss about $250,000 and 26 houses destroyed, Nov. 17. Slaves having been known to fire buildings about the city, and sus- pected as the incendiaries of Nov. 17th, the Common Council passes a law that no slave shall be abroad after 9 o'clock at night under penalty of confinement in the jail, Nov. 25. Common Council ordains that " no butcher or other person shall sell or dispose of any lamb, mutton, veal, pork or other dead victual for more than four pence per pound, under a penalty of eight shillings for very such ofifence," Nov. 25. Volckert P. Douw's slave Dinah executed on Pinxter Hill for setting fire to Leonard Gansevoort's barn on Nov. 17th, thus starting the large conflagration with $250,000 loss, November. Common Council passes a law establishing a night watch, consist- ing of 24 persons each night, drawn from male inhabitants over 16 years of age, to assemble at 8 p. m. on notice of the mar- shal and serve until daybreak under penalty of 6 shillings, and those over 60 years of age might send a substitute, Nov. 27. River closed to navigation, Dec. 26. 1794. Negro slave named Pomp is charged with setting fire to Leonard Gansevoort's stable, causing the disastrous conflagration of November 17th, found guilty and ordered to be hung on Janu- ary 24th, also Bet and Dan, two female slaves, found guilty and ordered hanged at same time, Jan. 6. ALBANY MAP OF 1794. An interesting map of the city, with former names of streets, made for the Mayor. Aldermen and Commonalty, by Surveyor Simeon De Witt in 1794. No. 31. ABRAHAM YATES, J UN. 385 1794. The three negro slaves who were to be hanged this day for setting fire to Leonard Gansevoort's stable, granted a respite of six weeks of grace, Jan. 24. Citizens send $866.40 to Philadelphia fire sufferers, Jan. 28. Mr. Holt of Cherry Hill, near south bounds of the city brings a cow weighing over 1,100 pounds to market, February. Those in jail imprisoned for debt petition the Legislature for a law to compel their creditors to support them while imprisoned, which would have the effect that no creditor would wish to press a man for money due lest he be imprisoned and become a charge, February. Dock association formed, Maiden Lane to State street. Sufferers by fires of importance recently here and at Lansingburg, petition the Legislature to be allowed to recoup their losses by a lottery and the committee considering the matter of the opin- ion the cases were meritorious and according bring in a bill, February. Bank of Albany increases its capital from $75,000 to $540,000 (135 shares $400 each), February. The two negro female slaves hanged for setting fire to Leonard Gansevoort's stable, which spread disastrously, March 14. River open to navigation, March 17. Proposals for building the First Presbyterian church at the n. e. corner of So. Pearl and Beaver streets, 64 x 76 feet, March 28. Solomon Van Rensselaer, son of Gen. Henry K. Van Rensselaer of Rensselaerswyck promoted to captaincy in U. S. cavalry, March. Pomp, charged with firing Leonard Gansevoort's stable, Nov. 17, 1793, confesses, which confessions are sold at No. 2 Pearl street, and he is hanged accordingly, April 11. Stephen Van Rensselaer elected member of Williams College cor- ooration. May 19, Anna De Peyster Douw, wife of ex-Mayor Volckert P. Douw (burial at Wolven Hoeck, Douws Point) dies at her home ac.oss the river, June 14. Bank of Albany builds on west side of Broadway, six doors north of State street. Jacob J. Lansing, an alderman and magistrate, a " God-fearing man and valuable friend," dies, June 21. Western Inland Lock Navigation Co. contracts with four companies of laborers to dig the canal, .June 22. Trade in wheat very extensive, July- James Caldwell's chocolate mill, one mile north of the city, burns with loss of $65,000, being entirely consumed, July 12. 386 ABRAHAM YATES, JUN. No. 3I. 1794-1795. Jacob Waldron and wife, who had been captured by Shawnee In- dians with a part of Gen. Wayne's army, but escaped in March, arrive from Detroit and helped financially on their way by Humane Society, October. Charter election. Common Council : Abraham Ten Broeck, Philip S. van Rensselaer, I. Barent G. Staats, Kunloke Woodrufif, II. Theodorus V. W. Graham, John Jauncey, III. Election, Sept. 30; sworn in, Oct. 14. Teunis Visscher dies, Oct. 16. Fare to New York by stage-coach $7.25, time two days, October. Common Council advertises for proposals to supply the city with water by an aqueduct from the spring- at Five-Mile House on the Schenectady turnpike, Nov. 10. Bank of Albany pays semi-annual dividend of ^Vi'^'^, Nov. 14. Extensive glass factory eight miles west of city in full and success- ful operation, giving employment to numerous citizens, Dec. 2. Abraham Bloodgood sells to Mayor Abraham Yates, Jun., and the Commonalty " a certain Negro Male Slave being a Chimney Sweep, called Caesar," for 85 Eng. pounds of lawful money of the State of New York, Dec. 5. Stephen \"an Rensselaer prohibits any further cutting of firewood upon his estates, excepting those who had permit by deed, end- ing a custom that had been in vogue a century and a half, Dec. 15. Albanians having suscribed 6,000 Eng. pounds towards erection of a college are disappointed upon the Regents voting 1 1 to 3 to establish it at Schenectady, Dec. 22. 1795. City seal, the third ever used and bearing arms, is first used as a seal with wax (as far as since discovered). Streets first lighted, ' January. Lansingburg known as New City at this time, being designated by the Dutch " de nieuwe stad," Albany being referred to as " de oude stad." Postmaster at Albany at this time George W. Mancius. January. John Hudson running two stages daily to Schenectady, drawn by four horses, January. River closed to navigation for the season, Jan. 12. So much emigration to the western part of the state (called the Far West) that 500 sleighs pass through the city in one day and a No. 31. ABRAHAM YATES, JUN. 387 1795. count shows 1,200 sleighs, mostly from New England states passing westward through this city in three days, containing families with their household goods, February. Union College founded, John Blair Smith, President, Feb. 25. Arent Van Curlaer, aged 107 years, dies at Mapletown, Rensselaer county, March i Legislature passes bill subscribing for 200 shares of the Inland Lock companies now building canals, A'larch. Legislative Act dividing Rensselaerville and forming the new town to be called Berne, March 17. Schoharie county formed from Albany county, April 6. Legislature appropriates $100,000 annually for 5 years to encourage the schools of the state, Albany county being allotted $3,750, April 7. Fifty sailing vessels arrive nere on the beginning of the open season. The MacGregor & Co. Glass works firm dissolved and formed under the title of Thomas Alather & Co., April 17. At the election John Jay chosen governor, Stephen Van Rensselaer of Albany the lieut. -governor and Gen. Philip Schuyler senator, April 28. Thennometer 14 degrees below zjro, unusual for this season, April 30. Flour selling for $10 a barrel m New York and in France, shipped there, from $15 to $20 per barrel, June 15. Davis Hunt of Watervliet gives a deed of sale of his negro slave Pompey to the Mayor. Alderman and Commonalty of the City of Albany for the sum of 65 Eng. pounds of lawful money of the state, June 22. John Jay, elected in April, becomes governor, July i- Bank of Albany moves into its new building on west side of Broad- way, six doors north of State street, July 20. Cohoes bridge opened, July 24. Sloops running regularly to Albany number ninety, July 30. Jacob Kidney, many years high constable, dies, Aug. 19. Henry Ten Eyck, a highly respected citizen, dies, Sept. 14. Captain John, an Oneida sachem and one who had usually spoken for his tribe in making treaties, dies here and numerous Indians attend his burial, with their rites, in the Presbyterian cemetery, Sept. 15. Henry Wendell, former sherifl^, aged 63, dies, Oct. i. Mayor Yates is again appointed ^layor of Albany, Oct. 2. Charter election. Common Council : Arie Lagrange, Philip S. van Rensselaer, I. Barent G. Staats, Kunloke Woodrufif, II. Peter \ 388 ABRAHAM YATES^ JUN. No. 3I. 1795-1796. W. Douw, Jeremiah Lansingh, III. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 13. Francois Alexandre Frederic, due de la Rochefoucault Liancourt, a noted French officer, visits Albany and makes notes for his book " Voyage dans les Etats-Unis." Lighting of the city required during the year 257 gallons of oil, Dec. 31. 1796. Morse's American Geography, printed this year, declares Albany water to be " extremely bad, scarcely drinkable." John Clark and Reuben King start stage line to Boston, January. River closed to navigation for the season, Jan. 23. Stage fare to New York at this time $10, February. Legislative Act allowing Albany to obtain water by conduit, February. Rev. John B. Johnson made colleague of Rev. John Bassett, March 23. Gen. Philip Schuyler, Abraham Ten Broeck, Daniel Hale, Jeremiah Van Rensselaer and Tennis Van Vechten appointed commis- sioners to build a state prison at Albany, March 26. Glass in large Cjuantities produced in Colonic, March. Yonkers (State) street ordered paved from Broadway to public square on the hill March. Messrs. Beeckman, Van Vechten, Van Rensselaer and Bleecker ap- pointed by the Dutch Church consistory to procure materials for a new edifice to be erected on west side of No. Pearl street. May 10. Subscriptions started to erect a Roman Catholic chapel at the n. w. corner of Pine and Barrack (Chapel) streets, to face upon the former street, by Thomas Barry and Louis Le Coulteaux, June. Abraham Yates, Jun., Mayor of Albany, dies, June 30. The commission to erect a state prison buys six acres at Broadway and Lawrence street, that later becomes site of state arsenal and then School No. 13, July. Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck appointed the Mayor of Albany. • • • (See No. 28.) No. 32. Jpljiltp ^rltugbr Han SmsB^la^r. Jan. 1, 1799 — Jvily 7. 1816. * * ♦ Julys, 1819 — Feb. 18, 1821. No. -^2. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. Date of office: (a) January i, 1799-July 7, 1816. (b) July 3, 1819-February 18, 1821. Date of appointment: (a) December 27, 1798. (b) July 3, 1819. Appointed by: (a) Governor John Jay. (b) Governor DeWitt Clinton. Date of birth: April 15, 1766. Place of birth: Van Rensselaer Manor House. Parents: Stephen (\'. R.) and Catherine Livingston. Education: Good schooling. Married to: Anne De Peyster Van Cortlandt. (d. Jan. 10, 1855.) Date: 17^7. Children: None. Residence: North side State street, east corner Chapel street. Occitpation: Banker. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: September 25, 1824. Place of death: No. 85 State street. Place of burial: Van Rensselaer Manor Ground (later Rural Ceme- tery). Title: Honorable. Remarks: Grandson of Philip Livingston, " Signer." Public spirited. Moral. Promoter of education. President of the Bank of Albany. 32. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 1799-1816; 1819-21. From an oil portrait owned in 1904 bv Mrs. Alexander Wells of Grove Hill. N. Y. No. 32. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 39I 1799. (Continued from No. 28.) 1799. Philip Schuyler Van Rensselaer, having been appointed Mayor of Albany on Dec. 27, 1798, by Governor John Jay, to succeed Mayor Abraham Ten Broeck. he assumes the office of Mayor, Jan. I. The State Hall or Capitol, ordered built for the state officers and the filing- of state documents and as a place for transaction of state matters, completed at the southwest corner of State and Lodge streets. Cayuga chiefs arrive prepared to arrange with the Legislature for the sale of all lands remaining to them in the state, January. Great Western Turnpike Company incorporated. Steps taken to erect a state arsenal by Henry L Bogart advertising for proposals to erect the same on a lot bought by the state for a state prison, southeast corner of No. Market (Broadway) and Lawrence streets (which property the city bought in 1858 for purposes of School No. 13), January. Company incorporated to establish a turnpike from Albany to Lebanon Springs. First drawing of the N. Y. State Road Lottery, consisting of 6,458 prizes amounting to $125,000, and 18.542 blanks, a total of 25,000 tickets at $5 apiece, considered a most worthy public ob- ject, commenced according to laws of I797> May 14. Western Inland Lock Navigation Co. declares 3,^ dividend, May 17. Common Council passes a law requiring constables " to stop all manner of persons who shall be riding for pleasure, or who may expose any articles for sale on Sunday," June 21. Channel made in the river between Troy and Lansingburg 30 feet wide and 5 feet deep at low water, doing away with " Lower Reef," June. Churches raise $555.87 for New York city yellow fever sick, June 19. Ordered that a loaf of superfine flour weigh 12 oz. and of tail flour to weigh I lb. and sell for 6 pence. June. Barber & Southwick open a circulating library with 400 volumes, charging $4 per annum to subscribers, July- Second or South Dutch Reformed Church being erected on south side of Beaver, through to Hudson street (avenue), midway between So. Pearl and Green streets, July. 392 PHILIP SCHTYLER VAN RENSSELAER. No. 32. 1799-1800. Charter election, Common Council : George Merchant, Isaac Bo- gart, I. Jeremiah Lansingh, Barent G. Staats, II. Enoch Leonard, Peter Dox, III. Election, Sept. 24; sworn in, Oct. 8. Directors of the First Company of the Great Western Turnpike Road advertise for contractors to begin at Schoharie creek and work westward, the width to be 2S< feet, the material to be stone or gravel, Charles R. Webster, secretary. City taxed $4,184 for night-watch, whale-oil for street-lighting lamps, maintenance of the poor and public schools, for one year. Death of George Washington at Mount Vernon on Dec. 14th an- nounced at Albany on the arrival of post-riders in 9 days after it transpired, and immediately the Common Council resolves that the bells be tolled that afternoon from 3 to 5 o'clock and that aldermen wear crape upon the arm for six weeks, Dec. 23. 1800. Population of the city 5,349 and of state 586,756, Jan. i. Slaves in the state at this time number 33,343, Jan. i. River closed (since spring of 1799), Jan. 3. F'irst local letter-carrier, William Winne, delivering, Jan. 5. Albany observes funeral solemnities in honor of the late President Washington, suspends all business and participates in a parade by civic, military and masonic bodies, as well as the law, physic and divinity, all uniting in one grand pageant the like of which had never been witnessed at Albany, Thursday, Jan. 9. City streets lighted at night by whale-oil lamps which extend at no spot further than half a mile back of the river, the rest of the land being unsettled upon, Feb. i. The Legislature having determined to set apart Washington's birth- day as a fitting time to commemorate his great deeds and many virtues, it is observed by an oration at 9 a. m. at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church by Rev. Matthew O'Brien, a procession starting from the City Hall (So. Market St., Broadway) moving through State and up No. Pearl street to the North Dutch Reformed Church, where Rev. John P>. Johnson, pastor, deliv- ered a sermon. Revs. Bassett and Nott assisting in the exercises, followed in the afternoon by an oration from Maj. Michael Gabriel Ploudin in the City Hall, Feb. 22. ^ (u h " o 2 OJ CL, O u O t- u en l-> - CO (L> ^ r- - '3 ■- ■" .:; o n u "o O rt rt s* -n "t: ^ -n C O 3 be — 3 ~ ii ^ C rt 2 E u^ < O o 00 IsFo. 32. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 393 1800-1801. Harmaniis P. Schuyler succeeds John Given as county sheriff. Scow drawn by a rope used as a ferry and the only means of com- munication with lands across the Hudson river. John V. Henry appointed state comptroller, March 12. Greene county, named after Gen. Nathaniel Greene, formed from Albany and Ulster counties, March 25. John Maude, an English tourist, declares in a description of the city that Albany water is " a pleasant, wholesome beverage." Ground to the westward of Middle Public Square (State, Knox and Willett streets) made a public burial-place. Charter election, Common Council : George Merchant, Sebastian Visscher, I. Rensselaer Westerlo, James Caldwell, H. Peter Dox, John Jauncey, HI. Gerrit Bogart, Abraham Bloodgood, IV. Election, Sept. ; sworn in, Oct. 14. 1801. l^iver open to navigation, Feb. 28. Jeremiah Van Rensselaer elected lieutenant-governor, on Demo- cratic ticket, although in Albany county (his locality) he had but 789 votes in comparison with his opponent, J. Watson, on Federalist ticket, who had 2,048 votes, and George Clinton was elected governor, with 24,808 votes, to Stephen Van Rensse- laer's 20,843 votes. Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer's wife, Margaret Schuyler (bap. Sept. 24, 1758) dies. March. Death of Volckert Pietrus Douw, the 25th Mayor of Albany, at his home on Douw's Point, Wolven-Hoeck, opposite the lower end of the city, and at the funeral held subsequently the guests im- bibe so freely of the delicious concoction he had prepared with spices in a keg some time before in celebration of this event, that they were transported to their homes on ox-sleds, March 20. Watervliet village incorporated, March 30. Stephen Van Rensselaer, the Patroon of the Manor, (born Nov. i, 1764) made a major-general of cavalry. Tontine Coffee House, on State street, where so many public meet- ings had been held and where were organized some of the city's largest institutions, taken over from Ananias Piatt, who had conducted it for the past three years, by Mat. Gregory from Waterford, ' May 12. 394 PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. No. 32. 1801-1802. Gen. Benedict Arnold, who had been located here and led troops from here to Ticonderoga, dies in London, Jnne 14. George Clinton, elected in April, becomes Governor of New York, Jnly I. Gov. George Clinton arrives at Albany and takes up his residence in the house vacated by Gov. John Jay, Nos. 66 and 68 State street, July 11. Corner-stone of the Ignited Presbyterian Church laid by Rev. John McDonald, Oct. 5. Convention held at the Capitol to revise the state's Constitution, convening this day, Aaron ilurr presiding, Oct. 13.- Charter election, Common Council : George Merchant, Sebastian Visscher, I. Rensselaer VVesterlo, John Cuyler, II. John Jauncey, Richard S. Treat, III. (lerrit Hogart, Abraham Bloodgood, IV. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 13. Constitutional convention adjourns, Oct. 27. Organization meeting to discuss project of the Schenectady Turn- pike at City Tavern, at which a committee of nine is named to digest a plan and report particulars. Xov. 3. Special committee reports details of organizing the Schenectady Turnpike road, deciding for 2.000 shares of $50 each, this city immediately subscribing for t,6oo shares and leaving 400 shares for Schenectady, no person being allowed to liold more than 10 shares, Nov. 10. Stockholders of the Schenectady Turn])ike Co. meet and elect the first board: Hon. John Lansing, Jr., president; Stephen Van Rensselaer, Stephen Lush. Daniel 1 1 all. John Tayler, Garrett W. Van Schaick, Dudley Walsh, Abraham ( )othout and Joseph C. Yates, directors, Nov. 24. River closed to navigation, official record, Dec. 6. For lighting the city during the year 1,187 gallons of oil used, cost- ing 320 Eng. Pounds (about $1,600), and for cleaning and ligiiting the oil-lamj) posts 97 Eng. jjounds (about $485). Dec. 31, 18 2. L^nited Presbyterian Church's new edifice o])ened at the corner of Canal ( Sheridan ave. ) and Chanel streets, Jan. 3. Lawton Annesley (later Annesley & \'int. then Annesley & Co., Richard Lord .\nni'sle\' head o^ the firm in 1906 and James ST. PETER'S CHURCH — SECOND EDIFICE. The first edifice, built in middle of State st. (opposite Chapel st.), 1714-15, size 42x58 ft., was taken down in July, 1802. On May 7, 1802, the corner-stone of the second building (n. w. cor. State and Lodge sts.) was laid. Consecrated Oct. 4, 1803. No. 32. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 395 1802. \'int with an independent store in 1906) establishes an art store. Contract signed to build the second St. Peter's church of stone, be- tween " the Rector and Inhabitants of the City of Albany, &c." and Philip Hooker (architect), Elisha Putnam, Garrett W. Van Schiack and Samuel Hill, Jan. 26. Albany Waterworks Company organized, making use of large trunks of trees bored through the centres with a hole of about two inches, jointed with iron pipes; capital $40,000: securing supply from the Maezlandt kill, northwest of the city, Feb. 2. Rev. Andrew VVilson installed by the Associate Reformed Pres- bytery of Washington over the united congregations of Albany and Lansingburg, April 20. Killian K. Van Rensselaer elected Congressman by 1,306 votes over Abraham C. Lansing with 793 votes, April. Rev. Thomas Ellison of St. Peter's Church (appointed rector May i, 1787) dies without beholding the completion of the new edifice, the fund for which he had labored assiduously to raise, aged 42, April 26. Waterworks Company pays a dividend of 3%, April. Corner-stone of the new (2nd edifice) St. Peter's church laid at its northeast corner by John Stevenson, vestryman, the building being erected at the northwest corner of State and Lodge streets, with its southeastern corner, at intersection of these streets, on the site of the northeast basion of the removed Fort Frederick, stone being the material and eventually costing $26,767.31 (consecrating on Oct. 4, 1803) Philip Hooker, ar- chitect. May 7. Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer marries (a second time) Cornelia Paterson, daughter of Judge William Paterson of New Jersey, May. Bass weighing 55 lbs. caught opposite the city, June 9. Common Council ordains that no bells shall be rung or toll during funerals for a longer time than 20 minutes under $25 penalty, June. St. Peter's church, its first edifice (erected in 1715) standing in the centre of State street opposite Barrack (Chapel) street, taken down, the work starting, July i. Adam Todd, sexton of St. Peter's church is paid $17.50 for " raising, removing and interring the remains of 35 persons from the in- terior of the old Church in State street," which he inters in the basement or foundation of the new edifice being built, and among them those of Lord Howe, who fell at Trout Brook, in 396 PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. No. 32. 1802-1803. the campaign against the French at Ticoiuleroga on July (>. 1758, as shown by church records, Ji^^ly- Ground set apart at State i^nd Willett streets for powder-house. Albany & Schenectady Turnpike Co., makes contract for clearing- road 14 miles long, erecting fences 58 feet apart, arch 42 feet broad with 8-foot ditches on both sides, in depression or ele- vation not to exceed more than 4 degrees from the horizontal at any place, at cost of $26,000. Charter election. Common Council: Sebastian Yisscher, Georg-^ Merchant. I. John Cuyler, Douw Fonda, II. John Jauncey, Harmanus P. Schuyler, III. Abraham Bloodgood, Gerrit Bo- gart, IV. Election, Sept. 28; sworn in, Oct. 12. Rev. Frederick Beasley of Elizabeth Town, N. J., accepts a call to come to St. Peter's Church, Nov. 15. Johannes Jacobse Beeckman, the 29th Mayor of Albany and born here on Aug. 8, 1733, dies, Dec. 17. 1803. Albany Aledical Society gives notice that its members will inoculate free the poor for the kine-pock, January. Abraham G. Lansing appointed state treasurer, Feb. 8. Comedians styled the Old American Co., entertain at Thespian Hotel on east side of No. Pearl street, near Patroon st. (Clin- ton ave.) Guilderland (named from Guilderlandt, Holland) formed from Watervliet, Feb. 26. Legislative committee reports in favor of erecting a capitol of sonie pretensions adequate to the importance of the state, March 7. New York State fiank chartered, capital $500,000, and John Tayler elected president on organization of board, John W. Yates, cashier, March 25. Customs-house established here, William Seymour deputy. Vessels quarantined south of city because of yellow fever. May 19. St. Peter's church, while building (its 2nd edifice) being pressed for funds, sells three lots between the church and the jail fence to the west, on State street, June. Gen. Philip Schuyler makes his will (he dies at Albany Nov. 18, 1804) leaving 6,607 acres of land in seven different land com- panies, appraised at $52,445 ; executors are his two sons Philip Jeremiah and Rensselaer, sons-in-law John Barker Church, Alexander Hamilton and Stephen Van Rensselaer, June 20. Water street changed from River street. o ■-n _^ >, w « TO Q O C^ 4) CO ' ' ^ rt I-. -^^ C ffi iri ^5) O It O Q .4_l c ■ — iJ s OJ (J V , u U r^ ra vO H U H ■o UJ -0 ".^ ^ QJ ' Green and d d catd F.h « "'" ''■ "^'^ = P'^'''P ««°'-'-- Architect ; Sw , A?.^' '^" • ^^^"doned j88i for newedifice n. e. cor bwan and Madison ave. No. 22. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 401 1806 1806. Cemetery established at State and Knox streets (later the site of Washington Park), January. Albany County Medical Society, (oldest in New York state in 1905), established by leading medical men, January. Schuyler Mansion, at head of street of that name, owned by Gen. Philip Schuyler who died Nov. 18, 1804, offered for sale, with the four acres environing, Jan. 30. Troy & Schenectady Turnpike Co. incorporated. Common Council passes law to prevent forestalling, fixing a penalty of $5 to purchase any kind of poultry to sell again, Feb. 3. Albany Mechanics' Society elects Chas. R. Webster president, Feb. 4. River open to navigation, official record, Feb. 20. Archibald McTntyre appointed state comptroller, March 26. Capitol corner stone laid s. e. corner of State and Park Place, by Mayor Philip S. Van Rensselaer, acting as a Masonic master of ceremonies, in the presence of state and city ofificials, April 23. Second, or Middle Dutch Church corner-stone, south side of Beaver between So. Pearl and Green streets, extending through to Hudson ave., laid by Rev. John Melancthon Bradford, bearing a resemblance to St. Paul's in New York city, April 30. Bank of Albany elects Philip S. Van Rensselaer its (3rd) president, May 14. Elisha W. Skinner admitted into partnership by Charles R. and George Webster as publishers of the Gazette, and booksellers, May 19. Goldsborough Banyar, Jr., dies in New York, June 6. Albany and Montreal turnpike along west side of Lake George laid out by surveyors as far as the 112-mile mark, Plattsburg, with 22 miles more of their road to complete, Aug. i. Reformed Protestant Dutch Church standing in the middle of State street a little west of the Broadway crossing, removed. Grounds embraced by Madison avenue. Knox, State and Willett streets, set apart and dedicated as Middle Public Square, Oct. 6. Charter election, Common Council : George Merchant, Sebastian Visscher, I. Douw Fonda, Derick Van Schelluyne, II. Har- manus P. Schuyler, Jacob Ten Eyck, III. Matthew Trottei, John Bogart, IV. Election, Sept. 30 ; sworn in, Oct. 14. 402 PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. No. 32. 1807. 1807. Thermometer 20 degTees below zero, unofficial, Feb. 9. St. Patrick's Society of Albany incorporated. River open to navigation, April 8. Daniel D. Tompkins, elected in April, becomes Governor, July i. New York state called upon by the president to furnish 12,000 to prevent British aggression, and John Van Ness Yates tenders immediate service of his company of Light Infantry, July. The Albany volunteers of Capt. Gerrit Bogart also tender their services to the president, July. South ferry scow capsizes and 33 drown. First navigation by a steamboat, Robert Fulton making a successful trip aboard the Clermont from New York to Albany. He and Chancellor Robert R. Livingston of Clermont, on the east bank of the Hudson, had met in Paris in 1806, where Fulton was experimenting, and as he had also been working on a similar project, they became interested in perfecting the one invention, and the outcome was this vessel made on their return at the shipyard of Charles Brown on the East river, where it was launched in the spring and moved to the Jersey shore for com- pletion. Her hull, 100 feet long, 12 feet wide, and 7 feet deep had been made by David Brome of New York, the engine by Watt «Sr Bolton of England. Upon fitting her engine the people began to ridicule his hopes, and curiosity was raised to a high pitch when the day for its trial arrived, as advertised. The wharves and house-tops swarmed with people, many warning friends not to dare go aboard. At 6 130 a. m. she was ready to start. There were 24 passengers and the 12 berths were taken. The fare was $7. Thick clouds of black smoke issued from the tall chimney. There was a little delay due to machin- ery requiring adjustment, and on a passenger expressing doubt of a successful result, Fulton replied : " Gentlemen, you need not be uneasy; you shall be in Albany before 12 o'clock to-mor- row." When everything was ready she made a circle three times, then steadily headed up the river, while tens of thousands cheered vociferously, Fulton all this time standing erect upon the deck, his eyes flashing as though the magic wand had been waved over his creation. Gerrit H. Van Wagenen agreed to keep account of the time and John Q. Wilson, (afterwards an Albany banker) wrote it in the log. This paper was drawn up from that and given to The Albany Register for publication : 2 -^ ^ ^ .*_. O a c (U o U) c rt 3 >. in fe ^ I-. p CI U-i *" X3 O >^ to c< •^ C) J-; c o m >i <^ > to n H *'-' CU a n ID •— . •~ C4-I u 1- (L> J IS •- u C rt rt u O rC s < CJ o ffi 00 >> "^ lO u p o a ^ 4-< C/) g i-t -o 1) ■-« O -t-J Q No. 32. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 4O3 1807. " On Friday morning at i8 minutes before 7 o'clock, the North River steam boat left New York; landed one passenger at Tarrytown (25 miles), and arrived at Newburgh, (63 miles) at 4 o'clock in the afternoon ; landed one passenger there, and arrived at Clermont (100 miles), where two passengers, one of whom was Mr. Fulton^ were landed at 15 minutes before 2 o'clock in the morning ; and arrived at Albany at 2J minutes past II o'clock, making the whole time twenty-eight hours and forty-five minutes; distance 150 miles. * "*' * Selah Strong, G. H. Van Wagenen, Thomas Wallace, John Q. Wilson, John P. Anthony, Dennis H. Doyle, George Wetmore, William S. Hicks, J. Bowman, J. Crane, James Braiden, Stephen N. Rowan, Sept. 4. At 11:27 a. m. the Clermont, the first steamboat ever to land at Albany, ties up at the wharf at the foot of Lydius street (Madison ave.) much to the excitement of the inhabitants who had been on the lookout. On the way a farmer had hastened out to the steamboat in his skiff and having tied to her, wanted to know from Fulton how a mill could grind itself upstream as this was doing and insisted on being shown the millstones. It was also told that at West Point as the vessel steamed past the whole garrison came out and cheered, and the crowds at Newburgh, enthusiastically waving hats and cloths, seemed as though all Orange county had flocked thither to see the wonder- ful craft, Sept. 5. Townsend Furnace & Machine shop established on the west side of Eagle near Jay street, by Isaiah and John Townsend. The Clermont leaves for New York with 60 passengers, fast becom- ing popular as a mode of rapid travel (28 hours to New York) and people losing their fear of trusting themselves on a craft of unheard of principle, considered foolhardy by so many scoffers, Sept. 30. The Clermont runs afoul of a small sloop and loses one paddle- wheel, following which accident 18 miles above New York, she proceeds with only one wheel and against a wind so strong as to cause the small boat to plunge considerably, Oct. 3. Charter election. Common Council : George Merchant, Sebastian Visscher, I. Derick Van Schelluyne, John Cuyler, II. Har- manus P. Schuyler, John Brinckerhoff, III. John Bogart, Matthew Trotter, IV. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 13. The steamboat advertised to afford dressing-rooms for women, there being no other steamboat in existence it was not thought neces- sary to mention the name when speaking or writing of the Clermont, October. 404 PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. No. 32. 1807-1808. The Clermont drawing crowds on each trip, this day starting from Albany with 100 passengers, Nov. 6. Bridge over Mohawk river below the falls completed, Nov. 25, River closed to navigation, official record, Dec. 9. 1808. Rev. Dr. William Linn, pastor of the Dutch Reformed Church, aged 56, dies, Jan. 8. Obadiah Van Benthuysen establishes a large printing house on lower Broadway (known in 1906 as Charles Van Benthuysen's Sons). Joint resolution to make an accurate survey of a canal route between tide waters of the Hvidson and Lake Erie passes, February. Common Council elects John Cuyler City Comptroller, Feb. 9. River open to navigation, official record, March 10. Commissioners to erect a new Capitol and City hall combined, at head of State street in the western end of the park, report receipts: Tax levied on Albany, $3,000; tax on both city and county, $3,000; from the corporation of Albany, $10,000; from sale of former Capitol and City Hall on Broadway and Hudson avenue, $17,000; proceeds of lottery, $12,000; state to be reim- bursed by a lottery, $20,000 ; donation this winter from Corpora- tion of Albany, $4,000; total, $69,000, and requesting $25,000 additional, to complete, which sum the state appropriates, March 11. Humane Society receives $371.32 as proceeds of Rev. Dr. Nott's sermon, March 13. Gerardus Lansing, a highly respected citizen, aged 84, dies, March 24. Simeon DeWitt's wife, Jane, aged 47, dies, April 10. Ground opposite the city, divided into lots and offered for sale, April 15. The Clermont arrives for her second season of river navigation, having been lengthened from 100 to 150 feet, and her breadth extended from 12 to 18 feet, with her name changed to North River, tonnage 165 tons, April 27. Col. Philip P. Schuyler, an efficacious officer of the Revolution, aged 73, dies, June 3. The late Gen. Philip Schuyler's daughter, Mrs. Cornelia Lynch Morton, aged ^2, an estimable lady, dies at Philadelphia, July 5. 2 C/3 . a • rt n 5^5! <-> R^ o - >> o r^ "i 5 C t/5 oJ •- i3 o rt F 01 =^ o ^ > t^ ^ c '^ .-2 <■■ U wi o bo • 00 - o rt 00 C 4J .^ O > o o rt "S ^ Jii" K -o u c '5, 4J n! o J u o . 1 , ^ ■4-> 1^ o C/1 00 03 00 lU c u O a; O I) Q lU K 0) 1 & ■4-1 3 J3 13 t^ 1 — » -3 a 3 O ly) < c CO f^ o C in (U 1— I o p^ 1> - c c tn rt »- > ^ f ' ^ ,n I.) :^ c g ^ J2 CO H o u No. 32. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 417 1815-1816. Second Presbyterian Church, on west side of Chapel street, dedi- cated by Rev. Dr. Neill, having cost $75,000, Sept. 3. Albany Boys' Academy opens in Mr. Van Rensselaer's building at the s. e. corner of State and Lodge streets, Sept. 11. Albany Daily Advertiser, first daily in city, appears, Sept. 25. Charter election. Common Council : Killian Van Rensselaer, James Warren, I. Chauncey Humphrey, Isaac Hansen, H. Teunis Van Vechten, Richard S. Treat, HI. Benjamin Knower, Charles D. Cooper, IV. Isaac I. Fryer, John A. Goeway, \ . Election, Sept. 26; sworn in, Oct. 10. Goldsborough Banyar, who came when young from England to this city and was deputy-secretary of the province of New York previous to the Revolution, aged 91, dies, Nov. 4. Death of Balthazar Lydius, suddenly, an eccentric character and last of his ancient line in city, aged yy, Nov. 17. Death of Postmaster Peter P. Dox, late county sherifif, Nov. 21. River closes to navigation, official record, Dec. 16. Common Council, in view of past experiences, finds it necessary to pass an ordinance to double watch the streets during Christmas and New Year's celebration, enforcing the law prohibiting firing of guns days or nights of Dec. 24th, 2'5th and 26th or from Dec. 31st to Jan. 2nd, December. 1816. Gerrit L. Dox made postmaster of Albany to succeed his brother, Peter P., who died on Nov. 21st last, January. Specie as low as G^'c at Albany, and brokers decline at price, January. Thermometer 14 degrees below zero, Jan. 16. Sudden thaw breaks the ice between here and Troy, and it carries down a sloop laden with wheat, which sinks opposite the city, Jan. 18. Expense of conducting the Lancaster school for past year, including rent because the building on west side of Eagle street is un- finished, salaries, heating, etc., $1,204.53, ^^^ 4°° scholars, W. A. Tweed Dale, prin., Feb. i. At a meeting held in Tontine Cofifee House a number of the most prominent citizens divide into committees to visit inhabitants of each ward and secure signatures to a petition to the Legislature urging the construction of a canal from the Hudson to Lake Erie, Feb. 7. 4l8 PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. No. 32. 1816-1819. Legislature passes bill erecting the village of Troy into a city, with Albert Paulding its first ]\layor and William L. Messey its first Recorder, April 9. Legislature provides for a school here for colored children, April 10. Fire starts at the " commons " in the north end and extends to Guil- derland and Watervliet, doing damage untold to crops, April 28. Col. Rensselaer Westerlo elected to Congress by a majority of 800 over Col. Elisha Jenkins, May 2. Dudley Walsh, late president of Bank of Albany, who came here from a foreign land and cre?.ted his own fortune until he was a prime and important mover in nearly every great enterprise undertaken, aged 55, dies, May 24. John Godfrey Saxe, prominent American poet, who w^as to spend most of his life in this city, born at Highgate, Vt., June 2. Memorial presented to the Common Council by Dr. William Bay, suggesting the division of the city into five districts regarding relief of the poor, giving a physician to each, as: ist, William Bay ; 2nd, James Low ; 3rd, Charles D. Townsend ; 4th, Peter Wendell; 5th (Aims-House), Piatt Williams, with salary of $200 each, acted on as outlined above, July i. Independence Day celebrated, oration by Rev. Dr. John DeWitt, Lt.- Col. John O. Cole reader, July 4. Council of Appointment now being Democratic, it removes Mayor Philip S. Van Rensselaer, who had been decidedly popular for 17 years as the city's executive, and Col. Elisha Jenkins, who was born at Hudson and resided there until he came to Albany in 1801 as a merchant, having served as state comptroller, 1801-6; as secretary of state, 1806-9 and was quartermaster- general of the Northern Department during War of 181 2, is appointed to assume the office of Mayor, July- • • * (See No. S3-) (Continued from No. 33.) 1819. Philip S. Van Rensselaer assumes the office of Mayor of Albany, having been named by the Council of Appointment to succeed Col. Elisha Jenkins, who resigned in order to take up business at his native city, Hudson, N. Y., July 3. .5 • c 00 OJ r^ (U M .;£ ;S ^ ^ ^ o O > S o" : -r^ 5 c en O o <; 1-. n o >, ffi ^ rt ^ rt 1-. ■^ X3 U ■' T) < t; in '>. a; -M 4-j S O D N^O. 32. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 4I9 1819-182 0. City built up only one mile westward of the city, beyond that a dense forest of pine trees with here and there an opening of sandy plains, July. A sign of early medical college at Albany given by an advertisement of Dr. James Low, who offers to instruct a class of ten or twelve men in pharmacy, practical botany as applied to medicine and chemistry, August. Board of Agriculture organized here. Rev. William B. Lacey installed at St. -Peter's Church, Sept. 6. Charter Election of aldermen and assistants for 5 wards, Sept. 28. George Reelman, a German, aged 112^ years, born at Landau on March 8, 1707. and a fighter in the Battle of Prague on Alay 6, 1757, dies at Settle's Hill, Guilderland. Oct. 2. Charter election, Common Council : John Stilwell, John L Ostran- der, L Charles E. Dudley, Isaac Hamilton, H. Nicholas Bleecker, John R. Bleecker, HL Matthew Trotter, Adonijah Moody, IV. Isaac I. Fryer, James Gibbons, V. Election, Sept. 28; sworn in, Oct. 12. Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer appointed Regent of L^niversity. John E. Lovett appointed attorney to the Common Council to suc- ceed Tennis Van Vechten who had resigned. Oct. 25. River closed to navigation, official record, Nov. 13. The Message delivered by the president at Washington at noon on Tuesday, Dec. 7th. arrives at New York city at 6 o'clock the next morning, and reaches this city in time to be published in Daily Advertiser on Friday, and is pronounced " unprecedented speed," Dec. 10. Lieut.-Gov. John Tayler, of Albany, presides at a meeting held in the Capitol to consider the prohibition of the extension of slavery in the L^nited States, addresses by Dr. Chester and Judge William A. Duer, and the latter's resolution was for- warded later to the Congress, Dec. 21. 1820. Population of the city set forth as 12,541 and of the state 1,372,812, with slaves numbering 10,088 in New York state, January. Stage-coaches first allowed to carry the mail. Abraham Eights, highly respected citizen, aged 74 years, dies, Jan. 10. 420 PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. No. 32. 1820. Mayor P. S. Van Rensselaer's flouring-mills on the Normanskill creek at the crossing of the Bethlehem turnpike, burned down, Jan. 19. Common Council's ordinance operative prohibiting sale of wood in State street east of Middle Lane (James St.), the object being to concentrate the selling of grain east of that lane, dealers notifying that they would sell nowhere else, Jan. 21. John Van Schaick, president of Bank of Albany, aged 47, dies, March i. Levi Solomon establishes a tobacco factory in Tivoli Hollow (suc- ceeded by B. Payn Tobacco Co., which firm name existed in 1906). Legislative Act incorporating the Albany Savings Bank with Stephen Van Rensselaer its first president, March 24. River open to navigation, official record, March 25. Steamboat Paragon, Capt. Roorback, arrives from New York, the fare reduced to $6, March 27. Bank of Albany elects Barent Bleecker to succeed John A^an Schaick as its 6th president. Christopher Dunn, occupant of the old stone house on Green street, opens the famous Albany Cofifee House at corner of Green and Beaver streets, a daily resort of the famous men coming to Albany or resident. May. Albany Savings Bank, first in the city, opens, and sum of $527 re- ceived from 21 depositors the first day, Jos. T. Rice, silver- smith, leaving first deposit, $25. June 10. Prof. Theodric Romeyn Beck makes first (by 16 years) geological and agricultural survey of its kind in the state, selecting Albany county for his first field, Aug. 10. Albany firemen go to Troy to aid in fire that sweeps down River street, doing damage amounting to a million dollars, June 20. Apprentices' Library founded to aid young mechanics, Aug. 24. Albany Library removes from Chapel street to building of Mr. John Pruyn, one door north, on Broadway, of Exchange Building, later the site of the Post-Office of 1906, September. Abraham Van Vechten's wife, Catherine, aged 54, dies, Sept. 10. Capt. David Van Der Heyden. an officer in the War of 1812, dies at his residence. No. 85 No. Pearl street, Sept. 20. Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer elected president of N. Y. State Agri- cultural Society. Charter election. Common Council : Theodore Sedgwick, Sebastian Visscher, L Charles E. Dudley, Chauncey Humphrey, II. Nicholas Bleecker, Richard S. Treat, HT. Matthew Trotter. No. 32. PHILIP SCHUYLER VAN RENSSELAER. 42I 1820-1821. Estes Howe, IV. James Gibbons, Richard Dusenbury, V. Election, Sept. 26 ; sworn in, Oct. 10. Legislature convenes and listens to Message of Gov. DeWitt Clinton, and Derrick L. Yander Heyden elected clerk of Assembly, Nov. 7. A majority of the Common Council recently elected being Demo- cratic, Mayor P. S. Van Rensselaer tenders his resignation to take effect at the pleasure of the Board, having served 19 years as the city's executive, Nov. 13. A chamber of commerce formed with Nicholas Bleecker, Jr., sec- retary, November John Cook appointed librarian of Apprentices' Library, Nov. 30 Isaiah Townsend elected president of Chamber of Commerce, Dec. 5 River closed to navigation, official record, Dec. 13 Common Council deems it unwise to continue assize of bread, Dec. 18 New York mail-coach breaks through ice in crossing to Greenbush and sinks in 15 feet of water, loss of $500, Dec. 21 Rev. Dr. Chester preaches special sermon at celebration of the second centennial of the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth, Dec. 22. 1821. Board of Agriculture imports a library from England which is placed in charge of Solomon Southwick, editor of The Plough Boy, Jan. 25. Benjamin Knower, of Albany, appointed state treasurer, Jan. 29. Henry C. Southwick, brother of Solomon, dies at New York, Jan. 29, Ice-boat arrives from Athens, 30 miles, i hour, t,2 mins., Feb. 2. Reorganization of city officers by Council of Appointment, Feb. 13. • • • (See No. 3-1.) No. 33. Jvily 8. 1816— July 2, 1819. No. S3- ELISHA JENKINS. Date of office: July 8, 1816 — -July 2, 1819. (Resigns). Appointed by: Governor John Jay. Place of birtli: Hudson, N. Y. Parents: Thomas (J.) and Mary Barnard. Education: School at Hudson. Married to: (a) Sarah Green. (b) Hannah Residence: No. 121 Lion street. (Washington ave.). Occupation: Merchant. Date of deatli: 1851. Place of death: New York, N. Y. Title: Colonel. Remarfzs: State Senator, 1798. Came to Albany in 1801. State Comptroller, 1801-6. Secretary of State, 1806-9. Quarter- master, General Northern Department, War of 1812. Colonel on staff of Governor George Clinton. Regent. Noted for strict integrity. 33- ELISHA JENKINS. 1S16-1819. From a photograph by Floyd, made from an old engraving in O'Callaghan's Documenlary History of New York. No. 33- ELISHA JENKINS. 425 1816. (Continued from No. 32.) 1816. Col. Elisha Jenkins is sworn as Mayor of Albany, the Council of Appointment being Democratic having removed Mayor Philip S. Van Rensselaer, who had officiated for the past 17 vears. 'j"ly 8. Watervliet Arsenal's first building, a brick structure, being erected, July. James Dexter, Welcome Esleeck and John E. Lovett admitted as attorneys by the Supreme Court, all three proving later men of ability, the second mentioned serving as alderman many years and the last for several terms as city attorney, July 20. Common Council names a committee (McKown, Cooper and \"an Vechten) to prepare an address expressive of indignation of the Board at the removal of ^Mayor Van Rensselaer for political reasons, July 29. Albany Academy building completed. Capt. Roorback makes the experiment on the Car of Neptune of burning coal instead of wood, as there was much complaint that the woods of the city were being denuded of trees to satisfy the requirements of the steamboats, and the price had risen, Sept. I. Gen. Henry K. A'an Rensselaer, aged "j^i,, dies, Sept. 9. The steamboat Chancellor Livingston, built by Henry Eckford at New York. 495 tons (Munsell's Annals, Vol. VI., p. 40. 526 tons) 157 feet long, 33 feet broad, 10 feet deep, 44x60 in. engine, first runs. The Albany Reading Room and Library opened in 1809 by John Cook (later the first N. Y. State Librarian) with 82 subscribers, James Kent allowing free rental of room, has 131 subscribers, and he appeals for more patrons or he must abandon it. Sept. 24. First Lutheran Church's new edifice (n. w. corner of Pine and Lodge streets) corner-stone laid, Philip Hooker, architect, by Rev. Mr. ]\Iayer. Sept. 26. Stage fare to Canandaigua $16.25. Charter election. Common Council : Isaac Denniston, John A'. N. Yates, I. Chauncey Humphrey. Peter D. Beeckman. II. Rich- ard S. Treat, Nicholas Bleecker, III. Charles D. Cooper, Solomon Allen, IV. Isaac I. Fryer, James Gibbons. \\ Elec- tion, Sept. 24 ; sworn in, Oct. 8. 426 ELISHA JENKINS. No. 33. 1816-1817. Legislature convenes and listens to D. D. Tompkins' ^Message, Nov. 5. Gerrit W. Van Schaick, first cashier of the Bank of Albany (1792-1814), a Revolutionary soldier at Burgoyne's surrender, and alderman, dies at Lansingburg, aged 59, Dec. 13. Police office established at s. w. corner of State and Pearl streets, Dec. 15. River closed to navigation, Dec. 16. Methodists start one of the first Sunday schools in the city. Debtors confined in the jail petition the rich " for such broken meats and vegetables as the opulent have it in their power to spare " during the inclement season, Dec. 28. 1817. Local Legislative bill introduced to encourage search for coal be- tween Albany and Troy, Feb. 5. Citizens meet at the Capitol to discuss plans for the speedy and effectual abolition of slavery, Feb. 7. Gerrit L. Dox appointed State Treasurer, Feb. 12. Governor Tompkins presents swords, awarded by the Legislature of 1814, to Maj.-Gen. Brown, U. S. Army, and Maj.-Gen. Mooers of the state militia, Feb. 19. Henry Trowbridge, at his Museum, gives the first exhibition of illu- minating-gas before a cultivated audience, March 22. John Tayler nominated lieutenant-governor, March 25. Legislature passes a law to abolish slavery in New York state, to be operative on and after July 4, 1827, providing that every negro, mulatto or mustee, born before July 4th, 1797, shall from and after the 4th day of July, 1827, be free, and that all negroes, mulattoes and mustees born after the 4th day of July, 1799, shall be free, males at the age of 28, and females at the age of 25, March 31. Bill for the construction of the Erie canal passes the Legislature, April 15. Charles D. Cooper appointed secretary of state, April 16. Lancaster school removes to its own new building west side of Eagle, between Lancaster and Jay streets, Dr. Theodric Romeyn Beck delivering the formal opening address. May 5. ^ c W O w o u < m < I O o X u yj Pi H < D < No. S3- ELISHA JENKINS. 4^7 1817. Martin Van Buren and Benjamin F. Butler form a partnership in law, and establish their office at No. iii State street, May 26. Thos. W. Olcott made cashier of Mechanics & Farmers' Bank. June. Work inaugurated on Erie canal with public ceremonial, July 4- Dr. Samuel Stringer, born in Maryland and educated in Philadel- phia, received appointment in British army in 1755, present when Lord Howe fell at the siege of Ticonderoga, after which he settled in Albany and was prominent in erecting the first Masonic Lodge here, aged 82 years, dies, July 11. Dr. Theodric Romeyn Beck elected the 2nd principal of the Albany Academy and to instruct in mathematics, Aug. 14. About the first steam vessel to ply between this city and Troy, the Stoudinger, Captain Fish, put on the route, Aug. 21. Benjamin Knower elected (3rd) president Mechanics & Farmers' Bank. People were issuing private " shinplasters " ad lil)itum at this time, and one of the most active was Calvin Cheeseman, whose pri- vate banking-house had issued $150,000 when he assigned to John Van Ness Yates and C. Humphrey, Aug. 25. Captain Bartholomew goes to Lake George to command the first steamboat operated on that body. Caldwell to Ticonderoga, August. South ferry propelled by two horses working a treadle, the invention of Langdon, of Whitehall, August. Forty-five miles of the new Erie canal under contract, Sept. 13. Rev. Arthur Joseph Stansbury installed at 1st Presbyterian Church, Sept. 30. Charter election of aldermen and assistants in the 5 wards, Sept. 30. James Geddes, an engineer, advertises for proposals to excavate the canal connecting the Hudson with Lake Champlain, Oct. 10. Citizens meet at Moody's Tavern, So. Market st. (lower Broadway) to discuss methods of abolishing smaller currency bills than one dollar unless issued by the city, Oct. 7. Robert McClellan, former state treasurer, dies, Oct. 8. Casparus Pruyn, a highly respected citizen, dies, Oct. 8. Charter election, Common Council : John V. N. Yates, Isaac Den- niston, L Chauncey Humphrey. Charles E. Dudley, H. Nich- olas Bleecker, Richard S. Treat, HL Matthew Trotter. Samuel Harring. IV. Isaac I. Fryer, James Gibbons, V. Election, Sept. 30; sworn in, G)ct. 14. 428 ELISHA JENKINS. No. T,;^. 1817-1818. Dr. James MacNaughton, one of the most prominent physicians the city ever had, starts practice at No. 91 No. Pearl st., Oct. 15. Fire burns 21 houses, from No. 142 to 186 Washington street, Nov. 8. Whale exhibited at State and Lodge streets, Nov. 28. River closed to navigation, official record, Dec. 14. 1818. Postmaster Theodore Bailey, of New York, sends word that with the river closed the mail would be sent once daily by stage to New York on the east side of the river, Jan. 17. Thermometer 13 degrees below zero, which is likely inaccurate, as that of Simeon DeWitt registered 26 degrees below, Feb. 11. Freshet so high that water stood over 2 feet deep in the barroom of the Eagle Tavern, s. e. corner So. Market (Broadway) and Hamilton streets, the ferry carried half way to Pearl street and sailing vessels floated over the dock, one family carried in its house across the river to Bath, March 3. River open to navigation, official record, March, 25. Bell for South Dutch church, 2,500 lbs., made in Holland, placed in the belfry of the Beaver street edifice, March 30. N. Y. State Library founded by Act of Legislature, April 21. John Van Ness Yates appointed state secretary, April. Macfarlane's dye-house established by Robert and William Martin on Hudson avenue (on Norton street in 1906). Green street theatre, erected in 181 1, being unused, sold to the Bap- tist Society and funds raising to furnish it, June i. Rev. William B. Lacey accepts the call of St. Peter's Church to con- duct services for one year, proposing mutually the prospect of becoming the rector, July 2. Remains of Gen. Richard Montgomery (born at Swords, County Dubin, Ire., Dec. 2, 1736; killed before Quebec while fighting for the Americans' cause against the British, Dec. 31, 1775) having been brought to Troy on the 3rd, where they rested in the Court House, were conveyed the next morning to this city, being met at the northern bounds of the city by the corpora- tion's officers and military bodies under Lieut. -Col. LaGrange, the United States troops commanded by Majors Birdsall and Worth, marching through upper Broadway, Columbia and No. Pearl street to Gov. DeWitt Clinton's residence at the southeast u < o u < w m CO w < 3 .5 No. 33. ELISHA JENKINS. 429 1818-1819. corner of No. Pearl and Steuben streets, thence to the Capitol, where they were deposited in the Council Chamber, the hono- rary pallbearers being local Revolutionary officers, July 4. General Montgomery's remains guarded over Sunday at the Capitol by Captain Lansing's artillery company, July 5. General Montgomery's remains escorted by a vast concourse made up of the city officials and military bodies to the steamboat Richmond, whereon Cols. H. Livingston and Peter Gansevoort, governor's aids, and Col. L. Livingston accompany the body to New York, to be deposited on July 8th, in St. Paul's Episcopal Church near the monument erected by the United States. July 6. Joseph Lancaster, a noted advocate of public instruction, arrives and visits the school named in his honor, delivering address, Sept. 4. Charter election, Common Council : John Stilwell, John L Os- trander, L Charles E. Dudley, Isaac Hamilton, IL Nicholas Bleecker, John R. Bleecker, IIL Matthew Trotter, Adonijah Moody, IV. Isaac I. Fryer, James Gibbons, V. Election, Sept. 29; sworn in, Oct. 13. State Library, pursuant to law passed Apr. 21st, opened under John Cook as the first librarian, in a room in the Capitol, November. Common Council determines that proceedings shall be in public and that provision be made for spectators, Nov. 16. Stage line established to Montreal on west side of Lake Champlain, running three times weekly, Dec. 5. River closed, official record. Dec. 13. 18 19. Governor reports in Message to the Legislature the expense of erecting the Capitol as completed Nov. _i, 1808, at the head of State street, west of the park, fronting on a line with Park Place and bordering State street upon the south, paid by the State, $73,485.42; by City, $34,200; by County, $3,000; total, $110,685.42; the city using the northeast corner for the Com- mon Council Chamber, on the first floor, the Mayor's Court using the room on floor above, Jan. i. Baptists dedicate the renovated Green street theatre, Jan. i. Proposition to establish a stage line to Niagara Falls, to cover the distance in four days, thus making it feasible to reach Detroit in eight days by rapid traveling, Jan. 25. 430 ELISHA JENKINS. No. ^^. 1819. Loaf of bread required by law to weigh 2lbs. 8oz., Feb. t. Gould Hoyt acts as chairman of a meeting at Bement's Inn, No. 55 State street, to advocate aboHshment of law imprisoning for debt, Feb. 24. Up to first of this year, since 1797, the sum of $148,707.94 had been raised by lotter)- for improvement of navigation near city. Albany Chamber of Commerce organized, April. River open to navigation, official record, April 3. Jeremias Van Rensselaer, the last of the original line in Holland to bear the name, direct descendant of the founder of Rens- selaer, three miles southeast of Xykerk, had married Julie Duval ; but had no children, and in his will stating- he has no heirs except the Van Rensselaers living in America, dies at Nykerk, Holland, April 11. Benj. \\'hipplc, many years Assembl_v door-keeper, aged 64, dies, April 30. Mail sent by post-riders done away with, ^lay. Academy park or common excavated to use soil in grading Lydius street, (Madison ave.) causing a pond in the depression. May. Mayor Elisha Jenkins decides that he intends to move to Hudson to live and resigns his office, taking effect, July 2. (See No. 22.) No. 34. OIIjarl^0 iEinmarh iuil^g. Feb. 19, 1821 — Feb. 15, 1822. Feb. 16, 1822 — Feb. 19, 1823. Feb. 20, 1823 — Mar. 9,1824. v5- * ^J May 29, 1828 — Dec. 31, 1828. JanV 1, 1829— Jan. 19, 1829. No. 34. CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. Date of oiUcc: (a) Feb. 19, 1821 — Feb. 15, 1822. (b) Feb. 16, 1822 — Feb. 19, 1823. (c) Feb. 20, 1823 — March 9, 1824. (d) May 29, 1828 — Dec. 31, 1828. (e) Jan. i, 1829 — Jan. 19, 1829 (resigned) Date of election: (a) Feb. 19, 1821. (b) Feb. 16, 1822. ( c ) Feb. 20, 1823. (d) May 29, 1828. (e) Jan'y i, 1829. Political party: Democrat. Vote: (a) Laianimous. (b) L^nanimous. (c) Unanimous. (d) Unanimous. (e) Unanimous. Opponent: (a) None. (b) None. (c) None. (d) None. (e) None. Date of birth: May 23, 1780. Place of birth: Johnson Hall, Staffordshire, England. Parents: Charles Dudley and Catherine Crook. Education: Newport schools. Married to: Blandina Bleecker. Children: None. Residence: No. 54 North Pearl street. Occupation: Merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: January 23, 184 1. Place of death: Albany. Place of burial: Albany Txural Cemetery. Title: Senator. Remarks: Presidential elector. 181'). Came to Albany in 1819. Alderman, 1819-20. State Senator, 1820-24. Council of Appointment, 1822. United States Senator. 1829-33. Vice- President ^Mechanics and Farmers' Bank, February 3. 1834. Public spirited. His widow endowed Dudley Observatory. His father under British Collector of Port, at Newport, R. L, previous to the Revolution. 34- CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. 1821-24; 1828-29. From an oil painting made from life that was presented to the city of Albany by Mr. Dudley Tibbits of Troy. No. 34. CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. 433 1821. (Continued from No. 32.) 1821. Charles Edward Dudley, having been unanimously elected Mayor of Albany, by the Common Council, assumes office, Feb. 19. Pierre Van Cortland's wife, Ann, dies at her home, corner of North Market street (Broadway) and Steuben street, Feb. 20. John O. Cole appointed a police justice, Feb. 22. Welcome Esleeck appointed superintendent of Common schools in place of Gideon Hawley, Feb. 22. Washington's Birthday observed, address by Hooper Cumming, Feb. 22. William Caldwell, prominent merchant, No. 64 State street, retires, March 5. Legislature reduces pay of members from $4 to $3, March 20. River open to navigation, March 25. Solomon Van Rensselaer elected congressman, April 26. Martin Van Buren and Benj. F. Butler remove their law office to No. 353 North Market st. (Broadway) from No. 11 1 State st.. May II. Capitol Square or park having been improved in fall of 1820, citizens propose a fund to improve Academy Square, the commons, in same manner, with the idea of rendering the vacant and use- less lots north of it, on Elk street, worthy of building houses there, May 15. Complaint that city salaries are too large, especially that of police justice at $300, when formerly it was $80 annually. May 2y. Albany Academy trustees advertise for removal of 10,000 loads of earth from the Square, and to dump on Elk street hollow, north, June 4. Negro found in State Bank when Cashier Yates was about to re- tire to his room in the building to go to bed, secured by struggle, June 21. Female Academy building corner-stone, Montgomery street, its sec- ond edifice (site of N. Y. Central railroad station) laid at 11 a. m. by Rev. John Chester before a vast concourse, June 26. Henry J. Bogart, many years alderman, aged 92, dies, June 28. Steamboat fare to New York raised to $8 for one person, but the steamboat United States was put on and charged only half, June 29. 434 CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. No. 34. 1821. Independence Day celebrated, Dirck Vander Heyden, orator, July 4. Constitutional Convention meets at " Old " Capitol and Hon. Daniel D. Tompkins is chosen president of the body, August 28. Steamboat Chancellor tries the innovation of a band of music aboard for delectation of its passengers, Aug 30. Flenry Trowbridge adds the New Haven museum to his collection in the " Marble Pillar,'' n. w. corner of Broadway and State street, and announces his collection surpasses any in country, save Peal's, I'hiladelphia, August 31. Dirck Van Scliclluyne, an alderman, advertises for sale a lot of two acres, used as a woodyard by steamboats, Madison avenue and Hamilton street, Sept. i. Rev. John McDonald dies at residence. No. 41 No. Pearl st, Sept. i. Theory of rotary and progressive motion of storms expounded by William C. Redficld, scientist, Sept. 3. Dr. Alden March, who had come here from Massachusetts to live, instructs a class of fourteen young men in medicine in a build- ing on Montgomery street, Sept. 15. Albany County Agricultural Society holds third anniversary, Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer, president, and awards Jesse Buel prize of $10 for the best two acres of wheat raised in the city, 39 bushels 12 qts. of wheat being raised on one acre, Oct. 10. Charter election. Common Council : Theodore Sedgwick, John Stillwell, I. Chauncey Humphrey, John Cassidy, H. Nicholas Blcecker, Robert Davis, III. Philip Phelps, James L'Amou- reux, IV. James Gibbons, Richard Dusenbury, V. Election. Sept. 25 ; sworn in, Oct. 19. Francis M. Southwick oldest son of Solomon Southwick and an officer of a local command, aged 23, dies, Oct. 21. Col. John Visscher, aged 85, dies, Oct. 24. The Chancellor Livingston runs aground on tlie Overslaugh and re- mains so for 29 hours, Oct. 29. Steamboat Richmtjud agromid on Overslaugh 4 hours, and causes universal indignalicjn among citizens at condition of channel, Oct. 30. Constitutional Convention, after session of 75 days adjourns, and final vote on adoption is 98 to 8, with 18 absent at voting, Nov. 10. Albany Female Academy building, on Montgomery street, com- pleted at a cost of $3,000.96, November. Common Council abolishes all i)revious laws regarding weight of bread ; but insists that bakers stamp on loaves initials and weight, Nov. 5. No. 34. CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. 435 1821-1822. Yoke of oxen weighing 3,000 lbs. each, raised by Hartford, Vt. farmer, largest ever in city, exhibited at Fly Market, 6 So. Pearl, Nov. 28. River closes to navigation, Dec. 13. 1822. Legislature convenes, in Assembly from Albany, James IMcKown, William McKown, Volckert Douw Oothout and John P. Shear ; in Senate, Charles E. Dudley and Archibald Mclntyre, Jan. i. Thermometer 14 degrees below zero, Jan. 5. Gen. Solomon Van Rensselaer resigns seat in Congress to become postmaster at Albany, Solomon Southwick removed, and Gov- ernor orders an election for Feb. 5th to fill vacancy in Con- gress, Jan. 14. Thermometer 15 degrees below zero throughout the city, Jan. 14. Voting on adoption of the new constitution completed Nov. 10, 1821, city of Albany votes 690 in favor and 614 against; county voting 1,905 in favor and 1,981 against, Jan. 15. Dr. James Low, aged 40, dies (burial at Charlton, Saratoga Co.) and the Medical society members resolve to wear crape on left arm for next 30 days, Feb. 3. Gen. Solomon Van Rensselaer's handsome home, Cherry Hill, just south of the city line, burned by incendiaries. The Governor offers reward of $500 General Van Rensselaer $500 and Com- mon Council $250, Feb. 16. Mavor Charles E. Dudley reappointed by the Common Council, Feb. 16. • • • IMayor Charles Edward Dudley, having been reappointed at an election held by the Common Council on Feb, i6th, resumes office, Feb. 16. Valuation of real and personal property in Albany county for 182 1 is placed at $7,484,647, Feb. 21. Abraham A. Lansing, living at Cherry Hill, below city line, aged 70 years, dies there, Feb. 21. River open to navigation only before the city, Feb. 28. Knox, named after Rev. John Knox, formed from Berne. Feb. 28. New state constitution is adopted by a vote of 116,919. 436 CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. No. 34. 1822. Ice breaks up but passage not clear to New York, March 6. John street changed from Sturgeon Lane. Meteor of extraordinarv- brilliancy and size passes southwest, March q. Rev. John Bassett completes translation of Vander Donk's historv of New Netherland. he having removed to Bushwick, L. I., March lo t^egislature adjourns after a session of 107 days, April 17. Jane McCrea's remains having been removed to the Fort Edward cemetery, Rev. Hooper Gumming preaches the special sermon. April 23. .Much silver plate found in a field at west end of city while a person was ploughing, tea and coffee-pots, sugar-bowls, spoons, etc., buried there during 40 years after robbery of Thos. Ship- boy. Survivor of this robbery of 1778 now living is Col. Sebastian Visscher's wife, April 29. Rev. Henry W. Weed installed at First Presbyterian church, May 7. Barent Bleecker unanimously re-ekcted president Bank of Albany, May 14. Canal loan, $600,000. taken at a premium of 1%% by New York State Bank and Mechanics & Farmers' Bank, on 6% stock. May J2. St. Peter's Church vestry advertises to build a steeple. May 29. Websters & Skinners, publishers, dissolve partnership, consisting of George and Charles R. Webster, Hezekiah and Elisha W. Skinner, June i. No debtor confined m the jail at this time, — unusual, June i.]. Steamboats introduce cotillions to entertain passengers, Jiut^ 15 Harrowgate spring, discovered in Greenbush in 1792 half a mik back from river and frcfjuentcd much by " the genteel " unti! militia post was establislicd there in 181 3. again comes to notice with a bath-house, June 17. ]\lartin Van Buren and Benj. F. lUitler, i^rominent attorneys who had moved into No. 353 No. Market st. (Broadway) on May II. 1821. now remove to No. 109 State st. Joseph Caldwell, a ]irominent and respected citizen, 85, dies June 23. Erie canal work being rapidly progressed and freightage to Ctii^a greatly increased, 350 wagons loaded v/ith flour passing on the turnpike from Albany to Schenectady in one day. July r Citizens meet at Capitol and nominate Solomon Southwick for gov- ernor, July 24. Oriental Star, religious, ])ublished by Bczaleel Howe. Aug. 3. No. 34. CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. 437 1822. At this time the Albany (Boys) Academy has 4 teachers and 130 students, Albany Female Academy has 4 teachers and 138 students, Mechanics' Academy has 1 teacher and 40 students, Lancaster School has i teacher and 390 students, Aug. 8. Newspapers boast of the unlieard of rapidity of mail serivce, letters mailed in New York on July 19th were received at Rochester on 23rd, a distance of 390 miles, by stage, Aug. 9. Yellow fever raging in New York, merchants convey their stock to Albany and rent stores here during the epidemic, Aug. to Joseph Bonaparte, Spain's ex-King, arrives at Albany on his travels, and takes rooms at Eagle Tavern, s. e. cor. Broadway and Hamilton, Aug. 15. Wheat sells at $1.22 a bushel, loaves of 4 lbs. at i s., Aug. 27. Steamboats from New York quarantined at Van Rensselaer Island below the city, fearing yellow fever, order by proclamation, Aug. 28. Charter election for aldermen and assistants in five wards, Sept. 19. Harmanus P. Schuyler, former sherift and chamberlain many years, dies at his home in Niskayuna. aged 53 years, Oct. 13. Dr. Alden March starts second course of his anatomical lectures. Oct. 14. Charter election. Common Council : John Townsend, Friend Flumphrey, I. John Cassidy, Jeremiah Waterman, II. Eben- . ezer Baldwin, Jacob H. Ten Eyck. III. James L'Amoureaux, Welcome Esleeck, I\'. James Gibbons, benjamin Wilson, V. Election, Sept. 24; sworn in, Oct. 18. Hawthorn McCulloch of So. Ferry street, exhibits a beet 2 feet, 3 inches long, 17 inches in circumference, four feet being the entire length of plant, Oct. 25. New York merchants here during yellow fever spell, return, Oct. 27. James Denny, quartermaster aboard U. S. Schooner Alligator, aged 30, killed in engagement with pirates, Nov; 9. Greek war for emancipation from Turks engages sympathy of citizens and meetings are held to raise funds to help Greeks, Nov. 19. President's Message arrives on third day after its deliverv. Dec. 7. River closes to navigation. Dec. 24. John Ten Broeck, who was a member of the state convention framing the state constitution of 1777, also a Revolutionary patriot, aged 83, dies Dec. 26. Aaron Thorpe & Co. advertise a stage line to Canandaigua and guarantee to arrive at Utica day of starting out, ' Dec. 27. :j.38 • CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. No. 34. 1823. 1823. Joseph C. Yates sworn in as Governor and Legislature convenes, Jan. I. A new theatre opened at No. 140 State street, the other one at this time being the Albany Theatre at Thespian Hotel, No. Pearl st., Jan. 12. James Dexter and Richard Van Rensselaer admitted by Supreme Court to practice as counselors, Jan. 17. Moses I. Cantine, one of the proprietors and editors of the Argus, also the state printer, aged 49 years, dies Jan. 24. Nicholas N. Ouackenbush, prominent lawyer, dies at his residence. No. 272 No. Market st. (Broadway), aged 59 years, Jan. 26. Tobias Van Schaick, foremost dry goods merchant, retires, Jan. 31. William A. Tweed Dale, principal of Lancaster school, makes annual report, showing 311 scholars, and income of $1,611.56, which had covered all the expenses, Feb. 3. Jeremiah Waterman opens a large dry goods store on No. Market St. (Broadway) opp. Mechanics & Farmers' Bank, Feb. 5. Thermometer 18 degrees below zero, Feb. 7. Simeon DeWitt appointed state survevor-general, second time, Feb. 8. Thorpe's stage makes record to Utica, leaving there at midnight and arriving here at 9:10 a. m., six passengers, the 96 miles in practically 9 hours, and covering the turnpike from Schenec- tady (16 miles) in 6y minutes. This coach, same six pas- sengers, returned to Utica that afternoon, arriving at 7 p. m., went to New Hartford and back to Utica at 8 p. m., thus covering 200 miles in 20 hours^ Feb. 8. William L. Marcy appointed state comptroller, Feb. 13. Benjamin Wright reports to canal commissioners, as consulting engineer, that a basin for boats leaving the canal at Albany would be an advantage to the city and might be constructed for $100,000. and it would help shipments to river boats without storage, Feb. 11. Chas. R. Webster elected president Albany Mechanics' Society, Feb. II. Charles E. Dudley unanimously re-elected by the Common Council Feb. 20. • • • Charles Edward Dudley having been unanimously re-elected by the Common Council on this day, resumes his duties as Mayor, Feb. 20. No. 34. CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. 439 1823. Geo. Webster, a proprietor of Daily Advertiser, aged 6i, dies, Feb. 21. Apprentices' Library having 350 readers on its roll and 1,585 books, is benefited to extent of $137 by Rev. H. Cumming's lecture, Feb. 23. Benjamin F. Butler, partner of Martin Van Buren, lawyers, ap- pointed district attorney for Albany county, March. Albany Lyceum of Natural History incorporated; Stephen Van Rensselaer, president. James Wasson and Major C. Humphrey, acting for Wasson & Jewell, livery, drive into town with fifty horses attached to a single sleigh, having procured them in Montreal, March 21. River ice breaking up, March 24. River so free of ice that the Fire Fly arrives, March 26. Ira Porter, merchant tailor, dies at Ballston, March 31. Legislature passes bill authorizing Albany basin, April 5. Law passed instructing supervisors to construct a treadmill near the Albany jail, to cost not more than $1,100, and commission- ing Friend Humphrey, James McKown and Philip Hooker to provide it, April 15. Dr. Theodric Romeyn Beck's wife, Harriet, daughter of James Cald- well, a prominent merchant, dies, April 18. Gibbonsville (later to be West Troy, — Watervliet) incorporated, April 23. Tobias Van Schaick's wife, Jane, aged 40, dies, April 25. Legislature adjourns, having passed 269 laws, April 25. State engineering corps locates Erie canal lock to open into the river, and stakes out the pier forming the basin. May 15. John Cook, first state librarian, located in "Old " Capitol, announces that he will keep the library open for those citizens who might desire to consult the books, until late in the fall, June 17. Funeral of Dirck Van Schelluyne, July 24. Grown near the city, eighty-seven headed stalks of rye from a single head of grain, July 24. New series of Literature Lottery drawn in Albany under supervision of C. A. Ten Eyck, William Gould and Ebenezer Baldwin, July 26. Windmill near " Old " Capitol disrupted by severe gale, July 2^. Albany bar meets to testify respects to Hon. James Kent on retiring from ofifice as chancellor, Estes Howe presiding, July 29. New steamboat James Kent arrives, passage in 20 hours, built by Smith & Dimon at New York city, 364 tons, 140 ft. x 48 ft., Aug. 19. 440 CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. No. 34. 1823. John \\ Henry, lawyer, receives " LL.D." from AUddlebury college, Aug. 20. Rev. John Ludlow installed at North Dutch Church, Aug. 20. John Cook, first State Librarian, originator of the Albany Library and reading room, aged 59, dies, (Calvin Pepper succeeding), Aug. 21. Graham Klink, publisher of Albany Directory, aged 30, dies, Aug. 29. Alfred Conkling and Jabez Hammond form law firm, 65 State St., Sept. 2. Dam and lock in the Hudson above Troy completed and Waterford and Lansinburg people celebrate, the Fire Fly taking passengers through the lock to Waterford at $1 a head, — dam's length 1,100 feet, 48 feet high from foundation and 58 feet broad, Sept. 10. T. Romeyn Beck's "Medical Jurisprudence " printed, Sept. 15. First water passes from Erie canal into Albany basin, and an eel three feet long, as the first living thing to come through, caught and preserved in the Lyceum of Natural History, Sept. 25. Charter election for aldermen and assistants in the 5 wards, Sept. 30. Erie canal ceremoniously opened, from the Genesee river eastward to the Hudson river, and the canal-boat DeWitt Clinton tra- verses this completed portion. Governor Yates, IVIay^or Charles E. Bleecker, Common Council and other guests aboard; Dr. Mitchell mingling waters from the West and waters from the ocean as it passes amid hussas and booming of cannon through the first lock and into the Hudson, Oct. 8. Charter election. Common Council : John Townsend, Friend Hum- phrey, L John Cassidy, Jeremiah Waterman, H. James Van Ingen, Ebenezer Baldwin, HL Philip Phelps, Hawthorn McCulloch, IV. James Gibbons, Benjamin Wilson, V. Elec- tion, Sept. 30; sworn in, Oct. 14. One foot of snow falls, thunder and lightning, Oct. 25. Elisha Jenkins advertises for construction of the Pier, to be 1,700 feet long, 80 feet wide and 18 feet high, Oct. 29. Rev. Jos. Hulburt installed at Third Presbyterian Church, Oct. 29. Incorporation of Commercial Bank applied for by Joseph Alexander, George W. Stanton, David E. Gregory, and Alexander David- son, to have a ca]5ital of $500,000, Nov. 2^. Samuel Vander Heyden, a founder of Troy, dies, Nov. 27. Apprentices' Library removed to Bank of Albany building, and Paul Hochstrasser appointed librarian, Nov. 27. No. 34. CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. 44I 1823-1824. River closes (but opens later), Dec. i. Common Council holds that city will no longer be responsible for accidents happening at ferry, sunrise to sunset, Dec. 2. George W. Mancius, former postmaster, aged 56, dies, Dec. 4. Watervliet Arsenal's second building, of stone, west of canal, built. Robert Dunlop's malt house and 5,000 bushels of barley, burnt, Dec. 15. River closes to navigation, Dec. 18. Ice in river breaks up, caused by rain, and freshet ensues, Dec. 25. 1824. A political disaffection in the Common Council seeks the overthrow of Mayor C. E. Dudley, and on balloting to declare the office vacant the vote stood 11 to 11, inclusive of the ^Mayor's vote, Jan. I. Legislature convenes, John Van Ness Yates administering oaths, Jan. 6. Twelve Niskayuna Shakers brought to town jail on refusing to perform military duty as incompatible with their doctrine ; but the colonel of the regiment recognizes their plea, ' Jan. 8. Albany Regency, a political clique of great power in the state and also extending to control the presidency and governmental positions, prominent movers in which were John A. Dix, Martin Van Buren, William L. Marcy and Silas Wright, all of whom served as New York governors at some time, commenced to gain in strength from 1820 (existing until about 1854) and an important factor onward from 1824. Ice moves down the river leaving it open to New York city, Jan. 11. John S. Van Rensselaer confirmed by Senate as County judge, Jan. 16. New York State Literature Lottery tickets sold from store of Chauncey Johnson, No. 393 So. Market st. (Broadway), Feb. 5. " Religious Monitor " issued by Chauncey Webster, Feb. 5. Common Council ballots ten times for mayor, the 22 votes being divided between John N. Ouackenbush and Ambrose Spencer, whereupon someone proposing adjournment and the vote being II to II, the Mayor cast a deciding vote. Eleven members 442 CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. No. 34. 1824, 1828. remained after adjonrnment and organizing cast 1 1 votes for Ambrose Spencer, whom they declared elected Mayor ; but this was later not considered lawful, Feb. 9. Dr. Robert Kerr, physician in British army in Canada who had been kind to the Americans in the War of 1812, aged 69, buried from Cruttenden's hotel ( later known as Congress hall) having died, Feb. 25. Philip S. Van Rensselaer elected president of the Bible and Prayer- Book Society of Albany and vicinity, Feb. 24. River opened to navigation (Gov't record), March 3. Common Council ballots for Alayor, the vote on first ballot standing II to II. On second ballot John Lansing, Jr., had 10, i blank, and 1 1 for Ambrose Spencer, who was declared duly elected, March 8. • * • (See No. 35.) (Continued from No. 36.) 1828. Charles Edward Dudley, after a lapse of four years, a fourth time becomes Mayor, having been unanimously elected by the Com- mon Council on this day because of the resignation on May 23rd of Mayor James Stevenson, May 29. Steamboat DeWitt Clinton launched at the Albany builders' dock of Hand & Kenyon, near the south ferry, of 571 tons. 233 feet long, 28 feet broad and 10 feet deep in hold, with engine 66x120 inches, the fourth steamboat built at this city; but stated in Munsell's "Annals of Albany," (Vol. IX, p. 169) to be 143 feet long and 27 feet broad. May. First successfully steam-driven printing-press in America (probablv made by R. Floe & Co.) operated at n. w. corner Green and Beaver streets, to print " The Temperance Recorder." City maintains 586 oil lamps this year. The late DeWitt Clinton's property sold by sheriff to satisfy a judgment of $6,000, at which the large and magnificent silver vases presented to him by the merchants of New York in recog- nition of his successful eft'orts in instituting the Erie canal, are sold for $600, and nothing left of his once fine estate save a few old carriages. Truly was it written in Clinton's City Directory by Marcus T. Reynolds, deposited later in the State Library, i2 y3 (0 u >, c/5 *J^ ^ H >> *^ n! < ^ ^ H "^ ■ - r/') ■i-> c/) -| n cci '/I Z > S w 3, t & c •- bo No. 34. CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. 443 1828. " He who added millions to the State of New York has himself died poor." June 3. Extensive stone dykes being built along the west bank of the river a few miles south of the city, July. William Duffey converts Albany Circus into Summer Theatre, July 26. Solomon Southwick declines being candidate for governor, July 28. Rev. Wm. B. Lacey, of St. Peter's Church, publishes for use of the schools, " An Illustration of the Principles of Elocution," Aug. I. Albany Savings Bank's business conducted by the Commercial. Albany Female Seminary opens for inspection at 65 Division st., Aug. 22. Proposition to level Robinson's Hill by building a stone wall at low parts and leveling, Eagle, Hudson to Madison avenue, and honoring DeWitt Clinton by giving the new square his name, Aug. 22. Common Council receives bids for leveling Robinson's Hill and carting the earth to the low pasture land south of So. Ferry St., one contractor agreeing to perform the work if allowed three quarters of the land made suitable for building, Aug. 25. Common Council estimates that its property on Robinson's Hill contains about 44 lots, requiring removal of 150,700 cubic yards at 9 cents, amounting to $13,500, and agrees to contract with Clark & Rose to allow the firm three out of four lots excavated, Aug. 28. Common Council allows Clark & Rose to lay tracks from Madison avenue, through So. Pearl and So. Ferry streets in removing Robinson's Hill, Sept. 8. Israel Smith and Joseph Alexander, commissioners improving the Hudson, report excavating for 1,500 feet through the Over- slaugh, at uniform breadth of 160 feet, so as to afford 10 feet at high tide during lowest stage of water in river, by depositing 1,100 scowloads, 24 cubic yards each, behind the dyke on west bank, and they urge a further appropriation to continue the work Sept. 8. Legislature convenes at " Old " Capitol to revise laws, Sept. 9. Steamboat North America accomplishes trips to and from New York by daylight, making it in 10 hrs. 53 mins., Sept. 11. Albany and Troy boat running at this time, the Carolina, Capt. H. Keeler, charging 12^ cents, Sept. 15. Israel W. Clark, in 1812 editor of the " Watch Tower," and who revived the "Albany Register" in 1818, aged 39, dies at Rochester, Sept. 20. 444 CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. No. 34. 1828. Steamboat DeWitt Clinton completed at Hand & Kenyon's yards near South ferry, and under Capt. Thos. Wiswall takes 350 guests to Hudson and back, Sept. 27th, and commences regular N. Y. trips, Sept. 29. John I. Van Rensselaer, aged 66, dies at Greenbush, Sept. 29. Charter election for alderman and assistants of the five wards, the Jackson party (Dem.) pitted against the (Rep.) Adams party, Sept. 30. State street paved from Eagle to Lark street. Charter election, Common Council : Friend Humphrey, John Townsend, I. John Cassidy, Daniel McGlashan, H. Gerrit Gates, Isaac W. Staats, HI. Philip Phelps, Hathorn McCul- loch, IV. Francis I. Bradt, James Gibbons, V. Election, Sept. 30; sworn in, Oct. 14. Steamboat North America wdiile coming to Albany, springs a leak and runs ashore at West Point, with stern in 90 feet of water ; but 300 passengers are put aboard Constellation and DeWitt Clinton, Nov. 25. Common Council enacts that bread must be made in loaves weighing one, two and three pounds, Nov. 25. Abraham Van Vechten elected president of St. Nicholas Society, Nov. 25. Common Council decides to establish a market on west side of So. Pearl street, between Howard and Beaver streets, Nov. 27. Fourth Presbyterian Church incorporated, Dec. i. Erection of second edifice of St. Alary 's (R. C.) Church. John Maley Cuyler removing from city, W^illiam L. Osborn .( Dem.) is elected assistant alderman of First ward, Dec. 16. River closed to navigation. Government record, Dec. 23. Albany Times and Literary Writer, edited by Simeon DeWitt Bloodgood, issued by Daniel McGlashan, No. 44 Dean street, Dec. 27. Common Council applied to by Messrs. Archibald Campbell, David Newlands, Jacob F. Sternbergh, J. Smith, Daniel Carmichael, Duncan Robertson, James Carmichael and Peter Mcintosh for permission to erect a vault where bodies might be kept a time before burial to prevent dissection by doctors, and would pur- chase a part of Potter's field, Dec. 29. Common Council recjuested by Samuel Pruyn, Israel Smith and others to improve No. Pearl from Orange to Patroon st. (Clin- ton ave.) which was suited only to the miserable hovels there, Dec. 29. ■TSU •T3 ^■ O - O ' 5 J" y^ < s ca > a O "-' 1^ < ::' No. 34. CHARLES EDWARD DUDLEY. 445 1829. 1829. Common Council assembles at 9 a. m., the entire body of 21 members present, and Charles Edward Dudley is unanimously re-elected the Mayor of Albany, Jan. i. Members of the Common Council order carriages at the public expense to make the customary New Year's calls, Jan. i. Gov. Martin Van Buren inaugurated, Enos T. Throop, Lieut.-Gov- ernor, while cannon fire 33 guns, denoting each thousand of majority vote, the cannon used being the " Clinton," dis- charged at Robinson's Hill by the famous Jonathan Kidney, Jan. I. Forty-four pews of St. Mary's new (R. C.) Church sell for $1,475, Jan. I. Clinton Lodge, No. 7, I. O. O. P., instituted, Jan. 9. Rev. John Chester, (b. Weather sfield, Conn.) aged 43 years and pastor of Second Presbyterian Church, dies at Philadelphia, Jan. 12. Gen. Goze Van Schaick's widow, Mary, aged 79 years, dies, Jan. 15. Mayor Charles E. Dudlev chosen U. S. Senator by Legislature, Jan. 15. Mayor Charles Edward Dudley resigns his office to become United States Senator, Jan. 19. • • • (See No. 37.) No, 35. MarcK lO. 1824 — Dec. 31. 1824. Jan. 1. 1825 — Jan. 1, 1826. No. 35. AMBROSE SPENCER. Date of office: (a) March 10, 1824-December 31, 1824. (b) January 1, 1825-January i, 1826. Date of election: (a) March 8, 1824. (b) January i, 1825. Vote: (a) 11. (b) Unanimous. Opponent: (a) John Lansing'. Jr. (b) None. Vote: (a) 10. (b) None. Total vote: (a) 21. (b) 21. Date of birth: December 13, 1765. Place of birth: Sahsbury, Conn. Parents: PhiHp (S.) and Mary ^loore. Education: Harvard, 1783. Married to: (a) Laura Canfield. (b) (Airs. ) ]Mary Chnton (Norton). (c) Catherine Chnton. ( d. Aug. 20, 1837.) Date: (a) February 18, 1784. (b) 1808. Children: (6) (a) John Canfield, Abby, Wilham, Theodore,, Ambrose, Laura. (b) None. (c) None. Residence: No. 119 Washington avenue. Occupation: Lawyer. Religion: Episcopahan. Date of death: March 13, 1848. Place of death: Lyons, Wayne county, N. Y. Place of burial: .\lbany Rural Cemetery. Title: Judge. Remarks: Came to Albany from Hudson, 1802. Attorney- General, 1802-4. Judge of Supreme Court, 1804. Chief Justice, 1819-23. [Member Constitutional Convention, 1821. Congress, 1829-31. Most capable, honest. Capitol and! Academy parks laid out, fenced, trees planted. 35. AMBROSE SPENCER. 1824-1826. From a photograph by Clifford of an old engraving, owned in 1904 by his great-granddaughter, Mrs. Augustus H. Walsh, of Albany. No. 35. AMBROSE SPENCER. 449 1824. (Continued from No. 34) 1824. Judge Ambrose Spencer is sworn into office as Mayor of Albany at the meeting of the Common Council, having been elected on May 8th, by a vote of 11 to 10, following Mayor C. E. Dudley, March 10. Supreme Court decides that the Fulton Steamboat Co. has no right to the monopoly of Hudson river passenger and freight traffic by steamboat because of its original charter, given when it seemed as though it were a matter of steam navigation and one company alone. Albany Sovereign Consistory and Albany Sovereign Chapter Rose Croix instituted. Legislature adjourns, March 12. South ferry leased for one year at $5,890 to Mr. Wendell, March 30. National Democrat, Solomon Southwick editor, William McDougal publisher, ceases ; but former asserts he will later revive it, April 7. Merchants' Insurance Company of the City of Albany incorporates,, with Charles E. Bleecker president, April 7. Merchants' Insurance Co. organizes, Thos. Herring, president, April 12. Common Council directs the chamberlain to purchase 1,000 gallons of oil for lighting the city at 36 cents per gallon of T. & J. Russell, April 19. Common Council petitioned to erect a weighing house on State street between Green and Broadway (Market st.) that farmers may weigh hay and shelter teams while trading in town, April 19. Solomon Southwick resumes publishing the National Democrat op- posite the Fly Market, April 20. Lewis Aspinwall starts a bell foundry at No. 18 Beaver st., April 27. The Circus, Green and Division streets, sold at auction. May 3, Notice given of consolidation of useful art societies that will be known as The Albany Institute, May 3. The Albany Institute formed, with Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer president. The Society for the Promotion of Useful Arts having consolidated with the Albany Lyceum of Natural His- tory, the latter incorporated in 182,^. resolved to be known as 450 AMBROSE SPENCER. No. 35. 1824. The Albany Institute, upon forming a third department or section to cover History and General Literature, the president of each of the three sections holding position of vice president of the main organization, May 5. Mrs. Susan DeWitt, wife of Surveyor-General Simeon DeWitt, dies, May 5. Albany County Medical Society announces by resolution full con- fidence in vaccination, for smallpox, and endorses the theory. May 5. Maj. Elias Buel, father of Judge Jesse Buel and a Revolutionary soldier, aged 87 years, dies, May 12. Citizens desiring a new theatre meet in the "green room" of the theatre on Green street to subscribe for shares, June 3. Fare to New York reduced to $5 by the North River Steamboat Company, operating the Chancellor Livingston, Richmond and James Kent, June 24, Opposition steamboat line starts, putting on the Olive Branch, which causes the fare to drop to $2, until owners of the other line secure an injunction to prevent the Olive Branch running, June 27. Chancellor Sanford decides that the Olive Branch may not run direct from New York city to any other city as a trip ; but may sail from a port in another state and land at any place in this state. This steamboat then made her start at Jersey City and New York became a way landing on her trip to Albany, July 9. The persons wKo desired a new theatre buy several old buildings on So. Pearl street, west side below Beaver street, near Crosby's hotel. S. Wilcox owned the property taken, which was 114 feet deep and had a frontage of 60 feet, ■ July 15. Opposition steamboat lines reduce fare to $2 to New York. July 16. Legislature convenes for extra session called by Gov. Yates, Aug. 2. John Spencer, of John Spencer & Co. dies, aged 44, and Erastus Corning, his partner, continues it alone, Aug. 13. Common Council directs Aldermen Matthew Gregory and John H, Wendell to visit Gen. Lafayette at New York and invite him to visit the city as its guest, Aug. 19. Steamboat Chief Justice Marshall launched at New York to run in conjunction with the Olive Branch, Jersey City to Troy, Aug. 21. Rev. John Bassett, former pastor of Dutch Reformed Church, aged 59, dies at Bushwick, L. L, Sept. 3. General Lafayette arrives at Albany by steamboat from New York, and is accorded a rousing welcome by new faces who knew of No. 35. AMBROSE SPENCER. 45 1 1824. his great acts for the Americans during the Revolution as well as by those who had seen him on his passing through the city when he arrived Oct. 7, 1784, on his way from Fort Stanwix and setting out for Boston the next day. Every expression of gratitude possible was shown, Sept. 17. General Lafayette leaves Albany, Sept. 18. Ex-Mayor Philip S. Van Rensselaer dies at his residence, a three- story red brick double house at the northeast corner of State and Chapel streets, a foremost citizen, given to acts of benevolence and promotion of education by every token, one who had been the chief executive of the city for more years than any other mayor, 19 years, and as such had given universal satisfaction, Sept. 25. Funeral of Ex-Mayor P. S. Van Rensselaer attended by city officials, Common Council and a vast concourse of friends and members of organizations with which he had been connected, Sept. 28. Charter election for alderman and assistants of the 5 wards, result- ing in the success of the entire Republican ticket, Sept. 28. Michael Connoway, Revolutionary officer, dies, Oct. 7. Charter election, Common Council : John Townsend, Willard Walker, I. John Cassidy, Jeremiah Waterman, II. Gilbert F. Lush, James Van Ingen, III. Giles W. Porter, Charles D. Cooper, IV. James Gibbons, Benjamin Wilson, V. Election, Sept. 28; sworn in, Oct. 12. Rev. Issac Ferris installed by Second Reformed Dutch Church, Oct. 27, The first curbstones used in the city introduced by John Maley Cuyler, the newly elected alderman, starting along No. Market St. (Broadway) from Maiden Lane to Mark Lane (Exchange St. ) , October. John Gansevoort m^'.le police magistrate by Common Council, Oct. 31. In the election of a governor, Albany county gives DeWitt Clinton a majority of 1,032 over Samuel Young ; in Albany city the vote for Clinton, 1,195; for Young, 563; Clinton's majority, 632,. Nov. 4. Rev. Dr. Neill, former pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, made president of Dickinson College, Nov. 11. Robert Owen, from Lanark, bound for New Harmony to try in America his experiment of a social settlement, passes through city, Nov. 17. Rev. Michael O'Gorman, lately pastor of St. Mary's (R. C.) Church, dies in New York city, Nov. 18. 452 AMBROSE SPENCER. No. 35. 1824-1825. State electors meet at Capitol and balloting for president results : John Quincy Adams, 26 ; Wm. H. Crawford, 5 ; Henry Clay, 4 ; Andrew Jackson, i ; total, 36 ; for vice-president : John C. Cal- houn, 2Q ; Nathan Sanford. 7. Mechanics' Society property at n. w. corner of Columbia and Chapel streets, offered for sale by John Meads, Dec. 23. River closed (temporarily) to navigation, Dec. 24. Albanians contribute $1,200 towards work of New York State Tract Society, which proves six times what the entire state raised, Dec. 25. The city desiring to pay its indebtedness, the Common Council decides by resolution to apply to the Legislature to authorize a lottery for the purpose of raising a fund, Dec. 28. The comptroller reports that Albany county real estate is valued at $6,748,072, and of personal property, $3,438,962, Dec. 29. Simeon DeWitt elected president of the Lancaster school, and Principal William A. Tweed Dale reports 947 scholars attend- ing, Dec. 30. Close of term of office of Ambrose Spencer as Mayor, Dec. 31. 1825. Judge Ambrose Spencer unanimously re-elected Mayor of Albany at a meeting of the Common Council, and he is sworn in Jan. i. DeWitt Clinton inaugurated Governor of New York, Jan. i. River closes a second time in winter, Jan. 5. Population of the city stated as 15,971 at this time, Jan. i. Legislature applied to for incorporation of Albany Gas Light Co., Jan. 10. John A. Lansing, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 76, dies at his home, No. ^^] So. Pearl st., at corner Hudson avenue, Jan. 30. Erastus Corning, formerly John Spencer & Co., until death of head of firm, forms a partnership with John T. Norton, to conduct r. general hardware and iron business on east side of Broadway. north of State street, March 2. John Humphrey leases the Green! )ush ferry of the city at yearly rental of $5,900, for term of three years, March 2. River open (Government record), March 6. Steamboat Richmond first to arrive from New York, March 7. Mrs. Laura J. Gilciirist, daughter of Mayor Spencer, aged 22, dies, March 13. 5-^4^-^, o — a; en oj ■tj in X o 0^ u u i; ^ l-H K '-' C •— » ■^ -!=: "u TTr, o bi) •" rt IH K^ CO W en < (J o in o a, tn m 00 o o U1 > o iz; _i 13 1- rt en t—i U *c/5 rt m U ^ „ .^ OT ,_ S en nj c C O s H ^ 5 i c O o o Q D o 00* 00 > -3 (U Tc „ r^ rt c/5 O ^^ ^ V "nJ ?; ^ o c5 ^— o ON >■ O , u rt fe »-H o O W c 2 ' c^ ^^ a; .^ K -C ;i 'o o ^_. u. u •"•' <5 O o o c "o •^ •u O c u u ^ ^ -a rt ,4_, k4 C tl .J lU 4J u, n, 03 o U p r- '^ > g 3 ^1 •r; o) • - o bo _rt c '(3 (U O •- .^ o <■< o "^ i^o f5 :S • — No. T^y. JOHN TOWNSEND. 481 1829. the desired object. The investigations above mentioned were all devised and originated, and the experiments planned, by my- self. In conducting the latter, however, I was assisted by Dr. Philip Ten Eyck, of Albany. An account of the whole was published in the 19th volume of Silliman's Journal, in 183 1." He further has this to say regarding his discovery of the tele- graph, which is so succinctly stated that the matter becomes clear to those unfamiliar with the wonderful discovery at Al- bany : " From a careful investigation of the history of electro- magnetism in its connection with the telegraph, the following facts may be established: i. Previous to my investigations the means of developing magnetism in soft iron were imperfectly understood, and the electro-magnet which then existed was in- applicable to the transmission of power to a distance. 2. I was the first to prove by actual experiment that, in order to develop magnetic power at a distance, a galvanic battery of intensity must be employed to project the current through the long con- ductor, and that a magnet surrounded by many turns of one long wire must be used to receive this current. 3. I was the first actually to magnetize a piece of iron at a distance, and to call attention to the fact of the applicability of my experiments to the telegraph. 4. I was the first actually to sound a bell at a distance by means of the electro-magnet. ='= * - The only reward I ever expected was the consciousness of advancing sci- ence, the pleasure of discovering new truths, and the scientific reputation to which these labors would entitle me. * * * j never myself attempted to reduce these principles to practice or to apply any of my discoveries to processes in the arts. My whole attention was devoted to original scientific investigations, and I left to others what I considered in a scientific view of subordinate importance, the application of my discoveries to useful purposes in the arts. Besides this, I partook of the feel- ing common to men of science, which disinclines them to secure to themselves the advantages of their discoveries by a patent." Mansion built by deceased Gen. Abraham Ten Broeck on Arbor Hill, house 44 X 52 feet, lot 292 x 759 feet, sold at auction, and IS occupied by Thomas W. Olcott, a banker. Aug. i. Common Council decides on laying out Clinton Square, area about 60 X 200 feet, as a small city park, Auo-. 17. St. Paul's Episcopal Church, corner of So. Ferry and Dallius streets! consecrated by Bishop Hobart, and at sale of pews (on 25th > $3,482 is realized for 16 of them. Aug. 24 On petition of Isaiah & John Townsend. who purchased the land in 482 JOHN TOWNSEND. No. 37. 1829. 1807, the Common Council decides to open Jay St., Eagle to Hawk. Aug. 24. Rev. Dr. \Vm. Buel Sprague installed by 2nd Presbyterian Church, Aug. 26. City Hall corner-stone laid by JNIayor John Townsend with full ceremonial at which a large concourse gathers. He met with the recorder and Common Council at the " Old " Capitol, and with Architect Hooker and prominent citizens proceeded in procession to the site on Eagle st. The stone was in readiness at the northeast corner and in the leaden box with a massive inscription plate thereon, were placed the City Directory, a copy of the Charter and maps, Aug. 31. Tearing down of old St. Mary's Church at the n. w. corner of Pine and Chapel streets begun, in order to erect the second edifice, which was to be replaced about 30 years later by the one in use in 1900. This first one was of brick, w^as small, not extending half the distance to Lodge street, Sept. 14. Justices Court convenes for first time in the new building on So. Pearl street, David Hosford, as senior member of the bar, de- livering the principal address, Sept. 14. John T. Norton's wife, Mary H., aged 2^ , dies, Sept. 21. The new Centre Market stalls sell for $158.50 and those of the new South Market for $628, Sept. 23. Charter election for aldermen and assistants in the 5 Wards, Sept. 29. Sam Patch, famous for his diving from bridges, stops in this city on his way to Niagara, Sept. 30. City surveyor submits plans to Common Council for paving Hallen- bake (Grand st.) from Hudson street (avenue) to Hamilton street, that way never having been in use for street purposes, Oct. 5. Universalist meeting-house on Herkimer street, (bet. Green and Franklin) dedicated, Oct. 11. St. Mary's (R. C.) second edifice, northwest corner of Chapel and Pine streets, corner-stone laid by Alderman Cassidy, president of board of trustees, Oct. 13. Charter election, Common Council: Barent P. Staats, Erastus Corning, I. John Cassidy, Daniel McGlashan, H. Herman V. Hart, Gerrit Gates, HI. James Maher, Lemuel Steele, IV. Tames Gibbons, William Stilwell, V. Election, Sept. 29; sworn hi, Oct. 13. John V. Henry, one of the city's greatest lawyers, falls on the street, apoplexy, on October 20th, aged 64, and dies, Oct. 21. u hJ :2 U G O i« o O 00 U ^ in CJ I-. ;_ u ^ O 00 No. 2)7- JOHN TOWNSEND. 483. 1829. Frances Wright delivers first lecture before Albany Athenaeum, Oct. 22. Vault built near Presbyterian burial-ground that bodies might remain there a time and guard against dissection. On depositing the first body this day, the person in charge returns for something and hears a noise within, which thoroughly alarms him ; but he opens the portal and calls to the supposed ghost to come out, whereupon he is surprised to see a himian being emerge, who had remained inside not knowing the iron door was being closed upon him. and the sexton's return saved his life, Nov. I. Peter Gansevoort, Democrat, elected to the Assembly, Nov. 5. Streets illumined at this time by 586 oil lamps, 100 of which held half a pint and the others a gill, Nov. 17. Steamboats DeWitt Clinton and Mctory sold at auction at New York city, the latter having cost $56,000 and her engine $20,000, brings $17,000; the Chnton having cost $44,000, and her engine $25,000, sells for $5,000, Nov. 17. Albany Orphan Asylum opened in a small way, in a building where Mrs. Heely cares for eight children, Dec. i. St. Vincent's Female Orphan Asylum opened. Most rapid transmission of President Andrew Jackson's " Alessage " to the Congress which is published in this city in less than two days after its reading at the Capitol. By messenger it was carried to New York city in 15^ hours, and up the river by the steamboat Albany, delivered at noon on Tuesday, printed in Albany Daily Advertiser on Thursday morning, Dec. 10. Gen. John H. Wendell, 21 years county treasurer, resigns, Dec. 10. Sad and mysterious case of Chancellor John Lansing, Jun., the 30th Mayor of Albany. Fie was in New York city on important business and disappeared so that he was never thereafter heard from or his disappearance explained. It is thought that in going aboard the steamboat for Albany in the dark he fell into the water, or else had been waylaid on his way there. He studied law in the office of Robert Yates, (who became chief justice) and was closely identified with Gen. Philip Schuyler during the Revolution, at which time he was one of the most active mem- bers of the state convention that conducted the military opera- tions of New York. He was delegated by the state a member of the convention that drew up the Constitution of the United States. He was last heard of on this day, Dec. 12. Council passes ordinance to restore hogs captured at large and for not being rmged taken to the Aims-House, Dec. 14. 484 JOHN TOWNSEND. No. 37. 1829-1830. Circus property on No. Pearl street, north of Columbia St., ordered sold at auction, Dec. 17. Superintendent of Aims-House reports 420 inmates, Dec. 20. Mayor John Townsend re-elected unanimously by Common Council, Dec. 21. 1830. John Townsend begins his second term as Mayor, Jan. i. River clear of ice and steamboats running to New York, charging only 50 cents for passage ; New Year's callers receiving coffee and cake in place of hot drinks and licjuors because of the temperance movement sweeping over the state and strong in the city, Jan. i. Population of the city stated as 24,238, January. Population of the State of New York announced as 1,918,608, January. Slaves in the state at this time number only 75, January. Legislature convenes ; Message from Gov. Enos T. Throop read, Jan. 5. The Albanian, literary paper, semi-monthly, issued for the first time by Arthur N. Sherman, Jan. 5. Dr. Alden March delivers introductory lecture to his course of anatomy, speaking of the urgent necessity of establishing a hospital and a medical college in this city, Jan. 11. Gov. Lincoln, of Massachusetts, in his Message, urges means to establish a railroad operated by steam from Boston to Albany, Jan. II. River closed for first time since last spring, the Philadelphia coming to within 26 miles of city and turning back, Jan. 11. Reuben H. Walworth, president, addresses the New York State Temperance Society on its first anniversary, in Assembly Cham- ber, Jan. 19. Estimate by the local temperance society gives 415 taverns and groceries selling liquors, 200,000 gallons sold annually in Al- bany, 500 habitual drunkards, 4,000 tipplers, 200 deaths by intemperance, and v$ioo,ooo expended for liquor during past year Jan. 31. Thorpe & Sprague's stage leaves the " Marble Pillar," n. w. corner of State and Broadway, at 9:20 a. m., 9 passengers, and arrives at Utica at 5 135 p. m., traveling in 8 hr. 15 min., including stops, at 12 miles an hour throughout. Feb. 6. CO <; Ph O No. 2>7- JOHN TOWNSEND. 485 1830. Lancaster School (west side of Eagle st.) annual meeting held in " Old " Capitol, Archibald Campbell, president, Joseph Henry secretary, report 1,300 children instructed during year at ex- pense of not more than $1,700; Simeon DeWitt president, Feb. 6. Rev. Mr. Thompson, the pioneer of Unitarians in Albany, preaches first sermon here^ Feb. 21. Anti-masonic state convention assembles, Feb. 24. Rev. Air. Thompson preaches in " Old " Capitol morning and night, Feb. 28. Gerrit T. Bradt, superintendent of South Ferry, reports two years' receipts as $17,013.96; balance, $12,786.34, Feb. 28. Citv Hall building commission reports contracting with Sing Sing agent for the marble for $11,500, Feb. 28. River open to navigation (Government record), ]\Iarch 15. Steamboat Constellation first to arrive here, March 20. Albany Evening Journal, edited by Thurlow Weed,, first published, by B. D. Packard & Co., March 22. Snow falls to depth of 28 inches, overwdielming quantities of pigeons which are picked up at Buttermilk Falls in numbers, March 25. Farmers', Mechanics' and Workingmen's Advocate first published, by McPherson & JMcKercher, April 3. Paul Hochstrasser resigns as city clerk and John W. Hyde is ap- pointed to fill the vacancy by Common Council, April 5. Alderman Daniel McGlashan, at times overseer of poor and police justice, aged 39, dies April 13. Public schools provided for by Legislative act, April 17. Legislature adjourns, passing 300 laws, April 20. Calvin Edson, known as " Living Skeleton," at IMuseum, age 42 years, and although 5 ft. 2 in., weight only 60 pounds, April 20. ]\Iechanics & Farmers' Bank declares 50% dividend, April 21. Kilian K. Van Rensselaer's wife, Margaretta, aged 66, dies, xA.pril 21. Explosion aboard steamboat Chief Justice Marshall near Newburgh on up trip, injuring many and six die, April 22. Alderman John Cassidy, holding that ofiice in 2nd Ward many years and active in advancing city interests, aged 46. dies, April 23. The " Old •■' Capitol having been placed in control of trustees, they appoint Henry Weaver superintendent, April 23. Steamboat Victory withdrawn from Hudson river to ply betv/een New York and Hartford on East river, April 24. 486 JOHN TOWNSEND. No. 37. 18 30. Report to Common Council in favor of changing Capitol to Park st., Maya. Election for town officers, (supervisors and assessors) when Edwin Croswell, editor of The Argus, gave forth the saying that " as goes the Fourth Ward, so goes the state," May 4. Dr. Barent P. Staats' wife, JVIaria A. Winne, aged 26, dies, May 9. Albany Orphan Asylum organizes, electing Edward C. Delavan president. May 19. Banks of the city depreciate the value of pistareens to 16 cents, the former value, before being worn, having been 20 cents. May 29. John O. Cole's wife, Eleanor, aged 37, dies, June 5. One of the speediest stage-coach runs, made from Whitehall to this city, 81 miles in 8 hrs. 30 mins., Ji-ine 5. First Presbyterian Church calls Rev. John N. Campbell, of Wash- ington, offering annual salary of $1,600, considered liberal, June 7. Fourth Presbyterian Church completed, size 60 x 90 feet, extending from No. Market street (Broadway) to Orchard street (No. Pearl st.), between Patroon (Clinton ave.) and Wilson streets; Architect, Philip Flooker ; I^astor, Rev. Edward N. Kirk. June 10. North Dutch Reformed Church on west side of No. Pearl street, enclosed by an iron picket fence, which is a novelty, June 10. Mayor John Townsend's house robbed of silverware; recovered, June 10. Ox weighing 4,000 pounds exhibited here, June 12. Independence Day celebrated ; William Parmelec the orator, July 4- Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer, with a silver spade, breaks the ground at Schenectady in starting work upon the Mohawk and Hudson new railroad to be the first in America operated by steam, July 29. Marshall reports the census of the city as 11,533 ^vhite males and 11,632 white females; total 23,165; colored males, 421, colored females 630, total 1,051 ; grand total, 24,216 persons, July 30. George Merchant, classmate of President Madison and who came to Albany to open an Academy next door south of the Vander- heyden Palace, (west side of No. Pearl st., and south of Maiden Lane), in war of 1812 a paymaster in U. S. Army, aged J}^, dies, Aug. 14. St. Mary's Church, second edifice, at n. w. corner of Chapel and Pine streets, first opened, Aug. 29. Henry C. Southwick's wife, Mary (dau. of Capt. Isaac Wool), dies, Sept. 3. No. yj. JOHN TOWNSEND. 48/ 1830. St. Mary's Church trustees hold first session in new edifice and pass resolution of thanks to citizens and the Lancaster school for allowing use of building" while work was going on, Sept. 8. Charter election in the 5 wards for aldermen and assistants, Sept. 28. Nathaniel P. Willis, the author, at Titus' Hotel, Troy, gives vent to much discussion by his remark on catching a glimpse of this city, '^becoming later a current phrase), "Albany, looking so well in the distance, that you half forgive it for its hogs, otfals, broken pavements, and the score of other nuisances more Dutch than decent," Sept. 28. Steamboat Ohio makes world sailing record, arriving from New York in 9 hours and 58 minutes, about 14^2 miles an hour, Oct. I. Christopher Dunn, keeper of the famous City Coft'ee House, a tavern or hotel at the corner of Green and Beaver streets, and whose place was cut in two on Avidening Green street, aged 67, dies, Oct. 9. Common Council orders Lodge street paved, Pine to Maiden Lane, Oct. II. City expenses $174,442.93; receipts $156,546.02, year ending, Oct. 12. Charter election. Common Council : Ralph Pratt, Willard Walker, L William Seymour, Seth Hastings, H. Gerrit Gates, Gerrit Yates Lansing. HL James Maher, Lemuel Steele, IV. James Gibbons, Stephen A'an Rensselaer, V. Election, Sept. 28 ; sworn in, Oct. 12. P. V. Shankland appointed Common Council clerk in place of John W. Hyde, removed, Oct. 25. Citizens subscribe as follows for gilding the dome of the new marble City Hall: ist Ward, $73.50; 2nd Ward, $161.75 ; 3rd Ward, $120.75; 4th Ward, $98.25; the total, $454.25, and the committee having been limited to $2 subscriptions, now author- ized to accept smaller sums, Nov. 17. Lydius street (Madison ave.) ordered to have a sidewalk from So. Pearl to Hallenbake (Grand) street on south side as the road was now coming into use, Nov. 22. Common Council authorizes finance committee to rent the old Court House (City Hall) at n. e. cor. Broadway and Hudson avenue, Nov. 22. Second Presbyterian Church Annex erected. River closes (Government record), Dec. 6. 488 JOHN TOWNSEND. No. 37. 1830, 1832. Thanksgiving- Day observed by Gov. Throop's proclamation, Dec. 9. Gen. Matthew Trotter, RevoUitionary officer with General Ganse- voort and Colonel Willett at Fort Stanwix, afterwards aid to Lord Stirling, a river captain and then in mercantile business, dies, Dec. 9. Orchard street (No. Pearl st.) ordered paved north of Patroon street (Clinton ave.), Dec. 13. David Williams, a surviving captor of Major Andre during the Revolution, is escorted to The Theatre on west side of So. Pearl street by Captain Watson's Artillery company and gives a narra- tion of the historic incident, receiving considerable applause, Dec. 18. River closed, (according to Munsell's Annals, Vol. IX, p. 221), Dec. 22. " Marble Pillar " building of Thorpe & Sprague, proprietors of stage- coach lines, receives the museum collection of exhibits, by which the edifice took name for half a century, being completed, Dec. 28. Marshals make known result of a canvass of the city showing: ist Ward, 6,855: 2nd Ward, 6,266; 3rd. Ward, 2,011; 4th Ward, 5,878; 5th Ward, 3,206; total, 24,216 persons, Dec. 28. 'Common Council ballots for IMayor, John Townsend receiving 9 votes, and Francis Bloodgood 12 votes; whereupon the Board of Aldermen pronounce Francis Bloodgood elected Mayor of Albany, Dec. 29. • • • (See No. 38.) (Continued from No. 38) 1832. John Townsend having been elected Alayor of Albany at the annual election held by the Common Council on Dec. 29, 1831, assumes office as the successor to Mayor Francis Bloodgood, Jan. i. Daily Craftsman first issued by Roberts & James, editors, Jan. 7. Philip Hooker resigns as city surveyor, and Dr. B. P. Staats at Common Council meeting ofifers amendments to the law insti- tuting thus two surveyors, — for northern and southern districts, which is passed, and George W. Carpenter and William M. Cushman are thereupon appointed, Jan. 23. No. :i)'J. JOHN TOWNSEND. 489 1832. Several hundred firemen petition the Common Council to prohibit the miscellaneous ringing of bells for week-day evening worship, because they frequently accepted fire-alarms as church-bells and received fines for non-attendance, resulting in the law that bells for church sounded after twilight be tolled, unless rung for fire, Jan. 23. Cuyler vStaats, aged 25 years, dies, Jan. 24. Mohawk & Hudson railroad reports to the Legislature that $483,215 had been expended for construction, and that to complete it $156,693 was required, Jan. 28. Centennial of the birth of George Washington celebrated, the 89th and 246th Regiments banqueting at Crosby's Long Room and Albany Republican Artillery at Foot's Fort Orange Hotel. Col. Peter Gansevoort presenting to the latter command a large brass drum captured from the British by his father, Gen. Peter Gansevoort, on Aug. 22, 1777, at Fort Stanwix (site of Rome, N. Y.), Feb. 22. Erastus Youngs, whose stage-coaches ran in every direction from Albany doing the most extensive business of any, age 48, dies, March 11. Common Council petitioned by Hugh Robinson and others to open Dean street to j\Iaiden Lane, March 12. Joseph Alexander and James L'Amoreux petition to have Hamilton street opened from Eagle to Hawk street, Alarch 12. Freshet the most extensive in years, carrying away several buildings on the Pier and basin bridges thereto, j\Iarch 12. Steamboat Fame of Hudson able to come to Albany ; but river closed at Redhook, March 15. Washington Centennial (birthday) celebration committee presents a silver pitcher with inscription and a handsome silver salver engraved with a likeness of Washington in the centre, to John Meads in recognition of his artistic skill in decorating the City Hall on the occasion of the grand ball, which had sur- passed anything before attempted in the city, (the two pieces passing in 1904 to Dr. Lloward Van Rensselaer under the will of Sarah Meads, sister of the recipient), INIarch 23. Ice passes out at Kinderhook, open navigation to New York, jNIarch 25. Constitution arrives, the first of season from New York, Alarcli 26. Jury for assessing property required to open State street from Broadway to the river report damage estimate as $98,708.55,. April 3. 490 JOHN TOWNSEND. No. 37. 1832. Common Council undertakes to amend the law that allowed hogs to run the streets at large since the city was chartered, a practice that drew from Nathaniel P. Willis, the author, the expression " more Dutch than decent." The recorder called up the law that had been tabled for a year, and Alderman Maher adhered to the idea that at large they acted as scavangers for the city, while penning them would inflict disease among the poor who kept them, while Dr. B. P. Staats thought it unwholesome to have them feed so, and garbage would be collected by men. Amendment to ring the pigs lost 8 to 1 1, and motion to confine prevailed, to take efTect June ist, or imposition of a fine of $2, April 4. Committee advertises for building Albany Orphan Asylum, April 16. Bank of Albany charter extended to 1855. Common Council grants quit claim deed to Methodist Church in Division street for land the city had given for new edifice at corner of Plain and Plallenbake (Grand) street, and the church now desired to sell the lot, April 20. New Scotland erected from Bethlehem, April 25. Town election for supervisors and assessors, May i. Stone House Tavern, in Beaver street, torn down. May 5. Mohawk &: Hudson railroad's first train, the first passenger railroad operated by steam in America, over the entire route, the train that ran first on Sept. 24, 1831, was operated from the brow of the hill east of Schenectady and to the " Junction," Lydius street (Madison avenue) and Western avenue; but this time the journey was over a completed route and terminated in Albany at Gansevoort street. The train on coming from Sche- nectady was greeted by cannon, and people from all over flocked beside the track the whole distance. May 14. Houses on Lodge street, between Howard and Beaver streets, occu- pied by noisy disreputable blacks and whites torn down by in- dignant citizens. Mayor Townsend and constable looking on, but unable to quell the riot, the people determined to raze it as the only remedy likely to abate a long-continued nuisance. May 14. Catherine Maley Hunter, wife of Henry D. Hunter and daughter of the late John C. Cuyler, dies at Congress Hall hotel. May 16. Cenotaph of marble in two colors placed in Second Dutch Church in memory of Rev. John DeWitt, its earliest pastor, May 16. Steamboat Novelty makes record trip, 9 hr. 47 min. from New York, May 31. No. 2>7- JOHN TOWNSEND. 491 1832. Joseph Alexander resigns presidency of the Commercial Bank and is succeeded by Hon. John Townsend as its second executive, June 7. Rumored that Asiatic cholera had appeared at Montreal and Quebec, accordingly the Common Council is convened to take precau- tions, and directs James D. Wasson to proceed to Whitehall to observe condition of emigrants coming that way, and guards stationed at all roads entering the city to order quarantine, June 13. Legislature convenes in extra session, June 21. Special Legislative session ends, July 2. Mayor Stevenson issues a proclamation forbidding the approach of any river vessel with anyone sick aboard nearer than one mile below the South ferry, because of a rumor there were cholera cases in New York, July 3. John Bradford, aged 22, the first case of death by cholera, July 3. The Theatre, opened for a summer season on the 4th, closed because of the cholera scare, one person afraid to approach another, July 10. ■Quantities of tar burned in streets, creating gloominess, with the hope of abating the plague. The streets and stores deserted, July 10. Gen. John H. Wendell, captain under Colonel Van Schaick and com- manding a company at Battle of Monmouth during the Revolu- tion, wearing a costume of that period up to this time, aged 80, dies. July 10. David Tinker, despite temperate habits, aged 30, dies of cholera, July 10. Citizens requested to be about at 9 a. m. to burn tar, July 13. Foxen kill, mostly an open creek and used as a sewer, complained of as a nuisance, July 13. Board of health reports 28 new cases and 7 deaths, July 13. New cases of cholera 27 and deaths 6, on 14th ; 6 deaths on July 15- Common Council meets in daytime fearing night assemblages, and churches abandon evening services, July I5- Cholera continues to rage, on i6th, 29 new cases and 7 deaths; on 17th, 23 new cases and 8 deaths; on i8th, 21 new cases and 5 deaths; on 19th, 20 new cases and 6 deaths; on 20th, 22 new cases and 7 deaths; on 21st, 40 new cases and 11 deaths; on 22nd, 19 new cases and 14 deaths ; on 23rd, 27 new cases and 5 deaths ; on 24th, 19 new cases and 10 deaths ; on 25th, 27 new cases and 7 deaths ; on 26th, 32 new cases and 7 deaths ; on 27th, 492 JOHN TOWN SEND. No. 37. 1832. 40 new cases and 13 deaths; on 28th, 28 new cases and 18 deaths, being- the greatest in one day; on 29th, 35 new cases and 17 deaths; on 30th, 26 new cases and 10 deaths; on 31st, 29 new cases and 6 deaths; total, 387 cases of cholera and 136 deaths during (28 days) July, in a population of about 26,000, Mayor John Towiisend issues a proclamation calling for a day of prayer, fasting and humiliation, Aug. i. Majority of the stores closed and half the population in mourning, the undertakers hardly able to cope with the situation, steam- boats and stage-coaches running practically empty, and farmers fearing to come to the city, a dearth in provisions, potatoes rising from 25 cents to $1 a bushel for that reason, Aug. 2. Day observed as period of prayer, with all stores closed, Aug. 3. Salem Dutcher, a prominent citizen, aged 60, one of the 8 deaths, Aug. 3. "Old Jail property" bounded by State (80 ft.), Eagle st. (116 ft.) and Maiden Lane (84 ft.) sold for benefit of Albany Academy, Aug. II. Steamboat Champlain makes record trip of 9 hrs. 49 mins. up, Aug. 26. Wells examined by Drs. T. R. Beck and Philip Ten Eyck, but they are declared to be free from impurities, Aug. 28. Cholera having been almost as severe in August as during July, the situation had become even more distressing ; cases in this month numbering 525 and the deaths 193, making a total for the two summer months alone, 1,147 cases and 401 deaths, average of one-third of the cases proving fatal, Aug. 31. Lancaster school on west side of Eagle street used as a hospital for cholera patients, the Arsenal far north on Broadway also, Sept. I. Steamboat Westchester built by Smith &: Dimon of New York, 230 tons, 134 X 23 X 8 feet. Ruttenkill creek (through Hudson ave.) filled in. Eagle to Hawk. Albany's first band of music organized. Lydius House, the residence of Dominie Lydius. built 1657, at the n. e. corner of State and No. Pearl streets, removed. Academy Park iron railing, about 9 feet high, set in a coping of marble blocks about one foot high, with gates at the four sides, in position and work of grading completed, the gutters from Lafayette street crossing near the centre as a stream in wet weather, Sept. 15. New York State Agricultural Society organized here. Nq ^^7, JOHN TOWNSEND. 493 1832. Cholera plague over, the last death on this day, Sept. 15. Prof. Joseph Henry leaves Albany Academy faculty for Princeton. Steamboat Erie built by Brown & Bell of New York, 471 tons, 180 X 28 X 9 feet. Steamboat North America, racing with the Champlain, makes a record, coming from New York in 9 hrs. 18 mins., Sept. 22. Charter election for aldermen and assistants in the 5 wards, Sept. 24. Daniel L. Van Antwerp, aged 60, dies, ' Oct. 2. Charter election, Common Council : Erastus Corning, Jesse G. Brush, I. John T. Norton, Dyer Lathrop, II. Elisha W Skin- ner, Tennis Van Vechten, III. Friend Humphrey, James P. Gould, IV. James Gibbons, Stephen Vsin Rensselaer, Jr., V. Election, Sept. 25 ; sworn in, Oct. 9. Joshua Cotrell establishes a fur store (Cotrell & Leonard in 1900) at No. 38 So. Market street (Broadway). Bank of Albany building east side of Broadway at foot of State street, removed to permit widening of latter street to river, and moves into No. 42 State street. Temperance societies in the city number 14, with membership of 4,164, and statistics are announced to show that with about 400 deaths caused by cholera only two of the fatal cases were mem- bers of temperance societies, Oct. 15. Peter S. Schuyler dies, Nov. i. Close of three days' election of a governor, Albany county giving Gov. Wm. L. Marcy a majority of 49 over Francis Granger, and for the President Jackson electoral ticket 104 majority, Nov. 7. Meeting of citizens at the City Hall results in subscription commit- tees to raise money for famine sufferers Cape Verde islands, Nov. 13. William James, public-spirited merchant, aged 63, dies, Dec. 19. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 21. City Hall's cost of construction (marble edifice with gilded dome) reported to the Common Council as $92,336.91, the county paying $7,500 of this amount. Dec. 27. Francis Bloodgood elected by the Common Council to succeed John Townsend as Mayor of Albany, Dec. 27. • • • (See No. 38.) No. 38. iiffrauris 1Bl00iig00&. Jan. 1, 1831 Dec. 31, 1831. * * * Jan. 1, 1833-^ Dec. 31, 1833. No. 38. FRANCIS BLOODGOOD. Date, of .office: (a) Jan. i, 1831 — Dec. 31, 1831. (b) Jan. I, 1833 — Dec. 31, 1833. Date of election: (a) December 29, 1830. (b) December 27, 1832. Political party: Democratic. Vote: (a) 12. (b) 14. Opponent: (a) John Townsend. (b) John Townsend. Political party: Whig-. J^ote: (a) 9. (b) 3- Total vote: (a) 21. (b) 17. Date of birth: July 18, 1768. Parents: James (B.) and Lydia Van Yalkenburgh. Education: Yale. Married to: (a) Eliza Cobham. (b) Anna Shoemaker (Morris). Date: (a) September 15, 1792. (b) November 3, 1823. Children: (a) (2) Margaret (Hall), Anna Maria (Paige), m. 44th Mayor (2nd husband. Major William), (b) None. Residence: No. iii State street. Occupation: Lawyer. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: March 5, 1840. Place of burial: A^ale Cemetery, Schenectady. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Clerk of Supreme Court. The 2d President of New York State Bank. President Albany Insurance Company. Noted for integrity. 38. FRANCIS BLUUDGOOD. 1833. From a photograph made by Floyd from the oil painting by Ames, owned in 1904 by his grandchildren (Paige) in Schenectady. No. 38. FRANCIS BLOODGOOD. 497 1831. (Continued from No. 27-} 1831. Francis Bloodgood having been elected Mayor of Albany on Dec. 29, 1830, he is sworn into office and signalizes the event by paying all the debts of those confined in jail as debtors, Jan. i. Applications made to the Legislature for the construction of a bridge across the Hudson at Albany and to incorporate a medical col- lege and hospital, Jan. i. Museum removed from the old City Hall building, n. e. corner of Broadway and Hudson avenue, to the new marble pillar build- ing of Thorpe and Sprague, n. w. corner of Broadway and State street, Jan. i. Soup-house opened in City Hall basement and 200 apply, Jan. 28. William L. Marcy resigns position of Judge of Supreme Court and Legislature elects him United States Senator for 6 years, Feb. I. Abraham Keyser is elected State Treasurer, Feb. I. Common Council authorizes city chamberlain to issue licenses to four chimney-sweepers, P'eb. 7. Proposals for excavating Patroon street (Clinton avenue), Feb. 7. Partial eclipse of sun witnessed, Feb. 12. Common Council orders paving of Lydius street (Madison avenue) from So. Pearl street westward, Feb. 21. Fires during year ended numbered only two, seven alarms, March i. Gen. Philip Henry Sheridan born in this city, on Canal street (Sher- idan avenue), March 6. B. P. Staats and others petition the Common Council to widen Green street between State and Beaver streets ; Margaret Cooper objects, March 7. Mr. Seymour recommends that lots be set aside for building of schoolhouses, as 1,694 scholars had attended district schools during the previous year, March 7. Resolution by Barnum Whipple passed by Common Council, that the City Chamberlain advertise a reward of $500 to the person discovering a coal mine of good and sufficient quantity to supply the city, within five miles of the river north of Pough- keepsie, March 7. Effort made to have Pine street opened from Broadway to Chapel street, the expense estimated at from $45,000 to $60,000; but It was compared with the stupidity of opening Clinton Square, March 9. 498 FRANCIS BLOODGOOD. No. 38. 1831. Common Council decides to widen Green street by taking a certain width from the east side, March 10 Resolved to raise money by tax for support of schools, March 10 Rev. William B. Lacey's wife, Hannah, aged 38, dies, March 11 River opens, March 15 Swiftsure and Constitution first boats to arrive, March 17 Rutger Bleecker dies, March 17 Common Council resolves to widen Green, State to Division street, March 24. Citizens meet at " Old "" Capitol and advocate a branch of the new Mohawk & Hudson railroad running down Washington avenue to State street from a junction out on Western avenue, Har- manus Bleecker introducing a resolution to that effect. The turnpikes were represented by John L. Wendell, who was voted down, March 28. Paul Clark, keeper of the famous tavern called Paul Clarke's Cor- ner, aged 67 years, dies, March 28. Albany Orphan Asylum incorporated, March 30. Jonah Scovel, Revolutionary soldier, who raised a company of yeomanry in Connecticut and marched them to Stillwater, aged 81, dies, April i. Common Council grants two acres at north end of Washington square for an orphan asylum building, April 4. Albany Pier covered by two and a half feet of water, April 7. Military men meet at Crosby's Hotel, s. w. corner So. Pearl and Beaver streets, and name committee to remonstrate with Com- mon Council against use of any part of Washington Parade Ground for orphan asylum, April 9. Professor Joseph Henry's paper on an electric telegraph printed. Firemen's Insurance Co., Jas. Stevenson, Pres., incorporated, April 23. Legislature adjourns, session of sixteen weeks, passing act abolish- ing imprisonment for debt, April 26. Broad street changed from Malcolm street. South Ferry first operated by steam. Isaac J. Fryer, long an alderman, aged 64, dies. May 10. William Thornburn (later becoming Price & Reed and in 1900 Geo. H. Reed) establishes a seed store corner Broadway and Maiden Lane. Fur shop of Packer, Prentice & Co. on the Pier destroyed by fire with loss of $12,000, May 12. Mechanics & Farmers' bank stock selling at $141.50 and United States Bank, New York city, stock at $128.36, the latter being the highest quoted in the metropolis, May 19. >-, h/l u ^ rt -o V-, a; ■n x: -4 .n C u :§ u i; o K s t^ lO M fX) u 00 -e , no o 1— 1 CN b/) u r u o. '?. > •5 ^ o 03 l-H rt O « P3 00 1 1 M '-' 3 j3 o oT m j2 r/l n - 4J U, -13 . S .. •^u « -a fo OJ t« 00 "H'c ". 3 o w ^.i c en ^ n! ? o ►-. ^f^ c C c- . 3 S C be ■" ti "^ rt "■ fd ^ E (U 00 bo SO Tt ;2 <" • ^ •- a , o lu 5 ^^ tl " c "J - o ~ <^ "3! ^ 3 3 X No. 38. FRANCIS BLOODGOOD. 5OI 1831. Charter election. Common Council : Barent P. Staats, Erastus Corning-, I. William Seymour, Seth Hastings, II. Elisha W. W. Skinner, Isaac W. Staats, III. James Maher, Lemuel Steele, IV. James Gibbons, Stephen Van Rensselaer, Jr., V. Election, Sept 27; sworn in, Oct. 11. Rev. John DeWitt, former pastor of Dutch Church on Beaver street, born at Catskill, dies at Brunswick, N. J., aged 42 years, Oct. 12. The state requiring an active militia and drills, the plan is ridiculed by a mock parade with a burlesque regiment, Oct. 15. A vessel constructed as a packet for Havre but entered into the government service, on completion at New York is christened Albany, Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer breaking a bottle of wine upon her bow as he pronounces the name, Oct. 25. Mayor Bloodgood proposed the purchase of firewood for the poor to use in winter and on Mr. Coming's resolution $600 was appropriated for the purpose, Oct. 25. Grand jury having visited the jail recommends a new one, the present building having been in use since 1809 and was fast decaying, the prisoners numbering at the time 56, Nov. i. Common Council resolves to take 33 feet from the Arsenal lots and 14 feet from property of Gilbert Davis, to open a street from Broadway to Montgomery and name it DeWitt street, Nov. 3. Common Council decides to widen State street, below Broadway, Nov. 14. Mayor Bloodgood, Recorder McKown, and aldermen make formal presentation of the set of colors to the packet Albany, as pro- vided by resolution of Oct. 24th, and partake of a bountiful repast, Nov. 17. Hosford & W^ait unite the " Christain Register " with the " Journal " of Utica, issuing the "Journal and Telegraph," Nov. 21. Common Council orders crosswalk over State street on east side of Lodge street in spite of considerable opposition from those who thought the " Church and State " walk (so called because paid for by St. Peter's church and the state) was sufficient there, Nov. 28. Common Council authorizes construction of Academy Park, with iron fence, citizens having subscribed $3,200 for the purpose, the movement being agitated by Dr. Barent P. Staats and Jas. Maher, Nov. 28. Apportionments confirmed for paving Lydius street (Madison ave) from So. Pearl st. to Hallenbake (Grand) street, Nov. 28. Capt. Peter Dox, born at Albany in 1742, a participant in French and Indian War and later in the Revolution, dies at Hopeton, Yates CO., N. Y., aged 89 years, Nov. 28. 502 FRANCIS BLOODGOOD. No. 38. 1831-1833. John Stihvell. many years alderman, assemblyman in 1824, major- general of artillery, aged 52, dies, Dec. 2, Francis Bloodgood and Gideon Hawley officiate at meeting dis- cussing sending delegates to Leedsville to promote a railroad to New York, Dec. 2. River closed to navigation, Dec. 5. Fifth Presbyterian Church organized, Rev. Alfred Welton, pastor, Dec. 5. Thomas Kendall, first manufacturer of thermometers in this country and celebrated the world over, dies, Dec. 11. Common Council elects John Townsend Mayor, Dec. 29. • • • (See No. 37.) (Continued from No. 37.) 1833. Francis Bloodgood, having been elected by a vote of the Common Council on Dec. 2"], 1832, to be Mayor of Albany, takes the oath of office and delivers an address in which he speaks of the growth of the city in hiaterial prosperity, and presents an elabo- rate statement of its financial condition, Jan. i. Legislature meets and hears message of Gov. Wm. L. Marcy, Jan. i. Steamboat arrives from New York with mails, Jan. 5. Mohawk & Hudson railroad cars commence running from the head of State street, the station being within about fifty feet of n. e. corner of State and Eagle streets, whence each car or carriage was drawn by single horse to the Junction, (Western and Madi- son avenues) with the track running down to Gansevoort street. Locomotives were attached at the Junction, where they received wood and water. Stock at this time selling at $1.25, Jan. 8. Steamboat Wads worth departs and river closes again, Jan. 10. Robert Dunlop's malt house on Orange street burned, Jan. 21. Reported to Common Council cholera expenses were $18,000, Jan. 21. Anna Pruyn, much esteemed, 70 No. Pearl and Maiden Lane, dies, Feb. 3. Yates & Mclntyre announce to discontinue lottery next year, Feb. 6. Dr. T. Romeyn Beck reads paper showing by his records that mean temperature here is 49.4, during 17 years, and less snow than vicinity, Feb. 7. No. 38. FRANCIS BLOODGOOD. 5O3 1833. Benjamin Knower's wife, Sarah, mother-in-law of Gov. Marcy, dies, Feb. 19. Reported to Legislature that cost of constructing Mohawk & Hud- son railroad was $42,600 per mile ; Schen. & Saratoga $22,000, Feb. 19. Archibald McClure and Geo. Dexter form a drug firm, March i. Subscriptions raising for new Female Academy, No. Pearl st., March 4. River open before the city, March 21. Paul Cushman, aged 78, dies, March 28. John Wilson, maker of geographical globes that were acknowledged by the foreign manufacturers to be best in the world, aged 39, dies, March 18. Athenaeum closes for lack of patronage, April 22. Rev. Horatio Potter installed rector of St. Peter's Church, May ii. Greatest freshet of years ; lower Broadway navigated by scows to State St. Damage to 11 farms on Van Rensselaer Is. $6,000, May 14. Freshet subsides, showing all vegetation gone. May 17. Benjamin D. Packard, bookseller ; had recently begun publication of The Albany Evening Journal, aged 54, dies. May 18. Hudson River Association Line formed by consolidation. Cornelius Van Rensselaer's wife, Eveline, dan. of Leonard Ganse- voort, aged 40, dies, May 25. Common Council raises chamberlain's salary to $1,000 and that of the poormaster to $500, Jluic 4. Vanderheyden house demolished as site for Baptist church, west side of North Pearl St., south of Maiden Lane, June 5. Albany P'emale Lundy Society organized, Ji^me 19. John B. Southwick, son of Solomon Southwick, aged 28, dies, June 23. Spring street directed to be opened Hawk to Swan street, June 24. Independence Day oration by Adj. -Gen. Levi Hubbel, and Declara- tion read by John V. L. Pruyn, 24 Schenectady girls depicting states, July 4. Subscription books opened for a railroad to connect with New York, July II. Considerable difficulty between the city and those who owned swine, and particular attention given to it by suit of the chamberlain against James Blackall to recover $6 as a fine for allowing them to roam. The defense claimed it was a greater evil to have pigs confined near dwellings instead of roaming and eating garbage, and furthermore that the city's employee, " Pig 504 FRANCIS BLOODGOOD. No. 38. 1833. Baker," connived to liberate pigs from the pound that he might again impound them, July i6. Universalist Church, Green street, corner-stone laid, July 25. Grand Jury recommends converting Lancaster school into work- house, ^"'^ug. 6. Grain worm and weevil constitute serious plague. New York & Erie railroad commenced. Stanwix Hall being erected at s. e. corner Broadway and Maiden Lane, named in honor of Brig-Gen. Peter Gansevoort who had distinguished himself at Fort Stanwix (Rome, N. Y.) and died in 1812. The name first carved on the stone tablet on Broad- way side was The Pavilion. Chas. F. Durant ascends 5,000 feet in balloon, alights at New Scot- land, Aug. 8. City surveyor reports cost of $60,000 to raise grade of that territory between the river, So. Ferry and So. Pearl streets, Aug. 19. Philip Van Rensselaer, who lived at Cherry Hill, southern part of city, was commissary during Revc^lution and had charge of stores for the Northern army which he kept on east side of Aliddle Lane (James st.) about 100 feet north of State st. While digging foundation for new livery of Wasson & Jewell, many loaded bombs found there, Aug. 20. Charter election for aldermen and assistants, Sept. 24. Albany Burgesses' Corps organized, Oct. 8. Charter election, Common Council : John E. Lovett, Levi Cornell, L Seth Hastings, James D. Wasson. H. Tennis Van Vechten (Isaac W. Staats, vice T. Van Vechten, resigned), HL Israel Williams, III. Lemuel Steele, James Maher, IV. John N. Ouackenbush, lames Gibbons, V. Election, Sept. 24; sworn in, " Oct. 8. Albany Library released from all debt by contributions, makes agreement to use rooms in Female Academy building on No. Pearl st. Later these books became merged with the school's library, Nov. i. Adam and Eve, great moral paintings, exhibited at City Hall, at- tracting imusual attention, the profits of one day ($38) desig- nated for any charity the mayor might select. Nov. i. Common Council decides not to open Hudson avenue above Eagle, Nov. 4. Albany Orphan asylum. Western ave. and Robin st., opened. Dr. March secures promise of gift after death to Albany Medical College of body of Calvin Edson, " Living Skeleton," age 45 years and his weight only 45 pounds, exhibited at the Museum. o ^ o >> M (U C r^ o !/l o O K o J2 n ir: m o o nt CIh -C > ■;; CJ r, H a o c5 o o O u en 0) o in a; o ^ ^ O (U •^ rn rt i~ OJ J 00 ^ kJ c 0^ o X w X = 005 ??: rt ^ -r; r^ ;3 n H T3 C >> a c >. ^ C o '}i o > C -; -,-. -a £ = .5 W G '^ C 00 u S rt t; z ^ >> n Q tie -n ^ ,-Tl H— 1 'O ^ '.J. 05 cq XI ::J ■^ c o (U o :z; ■ h ,-- p u o c -M u o u u ^ V) ^; w -G tn +-• ■— ' ^ •" O ^ C c c« (J -a rt !?S!**«- S£S^ e«B ,' lEFrtl i; vD rt ^ a; ^ -a ^ -o S .S nj Q. (U t/i O J; ^- rt y o No. 39. ERASTUS CORNING. 519 1837. Robert Gray, first librarian of Y. M. A., aged 35. dies, Feb. 19. Mrs. Rachael Bleecker, widow of James Bleecker and mother of G. \\ S. Bleecker, aged 79, dies, March 22 Ice moves out and navigation commences. March 28. The Daily Advertiser sold by J. B. Van Schaick & Co. to Rensselaer \^an Rensselaer, this paper printing in the morning news from evening New York papers brought by boat, April 18. Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer by his will of this date bequeaths the manor and lands on this side of river to eldest son, Stephen, those on east side to second son, William Patterson, April 18. Third Dutch Reformed Church corner-stone, corner of Green and So. Ferry streets, laid by Rev. Drs. Ferris, Vermilyea and I. N. Wyckoff of the Dutch Reformed churches and Rev. Dr. Wm. B. Sprague of the Presbyterian Church, the act performed by the venerable Christian Miller ; ground given by Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer, April 20. Experiment with steamboat N. Cobb, using Bennett's improved steam generator, to reach New York using only 31/2 cords of wood ; but ran only two-thirds of the distance with that amount, ^lay 8. Hon. Erastus Corning, Mayor, resigns the office which he had filled for several years with universal satisfaction. May 8. Banks cease specie payments. New York banks day previous. May II. (See No. 40.) No. 40. S^unta Han H^rlit^it. May 15, 1837 — Dec. 31,1837. Jan. 1, 1838 — Dec. 31, 1838. Jan. 1, 1839 — Jan. 21,1839. May 11, 1841 — May 9,1842. No. 40. TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN. Date of office: (a) May 15. 1837 — December 31. 1837. (b) January i, 1838 — December 31, 1838. (c) Tanuary 1,1839 — January 21. 1839 (resigns). (d) ^lay II, 1841 — May 9. 1842. Date of election: (a) May 15, 1837. (b) December 27, 1837. (c) December 2y, 1838. (d) April 13, 1841. Vote: (a) 14. (b) Unanimous. (c) Unanimous. (d) 2,449. Opponent: (a) John Woodworth. (b) None. (c) None. (d) Gerrit Yates Lansing. l^ote: (a) i. (b) o. (c) o. (d) 2,339, blank and scattering 40. Total vote: (a) 15. (b) 21. (c) 21. (d) 4,828. Date of birth: November 4, 1785. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Teunis (V. V.) and Elizabeth De Wandelaer. Education: Union College. iMarried to: Catherine Cuyler Gansevoort. Date: December 4, 1810. Children: (10) Elizabeth Anna, Leonard Gansevoort, Hester Eliza- beth, Samuel, Teunis, John Beekman. Cuyler, John, Catherine Cuyler, Cuyler. Residence : No. 15 Montgomery street. Occupation: Lawyer. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: February 4, 1859. Place of death: No. 725 Broadway. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Alderman. Supervisor. President Albany Insurance Co. Attorney for Patroon (Gen.) Stephen \"an Rensselaer. Noted for integrity, industry, economy, hospitality. Admitted to the bar in 1870. From a Twitchell, Albany. 40. TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN. 1837-39; 1841-42. photograph by Brown, xA^lbany, from an oil painting by Asa W. owned in 1904 by his granddaughter, Miss Anna Van Vechten, No. 40. TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN, 523 1837. (Continued from No. 39.) 183 7. Teunis \'aii A'echten elected Mayor by Common Council, 14 votes, May 15. Charter election, Common Council : Gerit Van Sant Bleecker, Charles S. Olmstead, I. Ichabod .L. Judson, Josiah Winants, II. John W. Bay, John Groesbeck, III. Henry A. Williams, Seth Jarvis, IV. James Gibbons, Daniel D. Shaw, V. Election, May 2; sworn in. May 15. Legislature adjourns, session of 134 days, passing 478 laws, May 16. Richard S. Treat, alderman many years, aged 68, dies. May 22. Elisha B. Janes, late principal Pearl street Academy, 36, dies. May 22. At Common Council meeting John Townsend and others petition Board to issue bills under five dollars to supply change ; but it was later on adversely reported by finance committee. May 29. Grocers meet and protest that they are merely collectors for bakers, and would take no more bread for sale until a reform, June 6. Francis C. Pruyn dies, June 14. Steamboat Utica built by William Capes of Brooklyn, 340 tons, 180 X 21 X 8y2 feet, 43 x 120 in. engine. Benjamin Van Benthuysen's wife, Susan, aged 52, dies, June 22. Gen. Robert Dunbar, Jr., more than 30 years principal agent for the Patroon, aged 64, dies, June 30. Pier Company refused by Common Council permission to widen the Pier by 15 feet, July 13. Five large lines of steamboats to New York in operation, namely Old Line, People's Line, Night Line, Day Line, and Eagle Line, some days the rate, 50 cents, then $3 for passage per person, July 15- Steamboat Utica built by People's Line, July. Eagle Tavern, made famous by Landlord Leverett Cruttenden, taken over by H. H. Crane of Rochester, July 20. Disastrous fire in So. Market street (Broadway) sweeping block bounded by that street, Hamilton, Division and Quay streets, July 21. Leonard Gansevoort Van Vecliten, aged 25, dies, July 24. Catherine Clinton, wife of ex-Mayor Ambrose Spencer, aged 58, dies, Ausf. 20. 524 TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN. No. 4O. 1837. Common Council refuses license to a circus that had been erected on Kane's Walk, advocated by Aid. John Groesbeck, Aug. 26. Common Council repeals a law prohibiting circus exhibitions in the city, by a vote of 11 to 6, Sept. 4. Common Council appropriates $1,000 to improve river channel, which could not have resulted in extensive good, Sept. 5. Eagle street, still unopened, directed to be pitched and paved fron\ Hudson street (avenue) to Lydius street ( ^ladison ave.), Sept. 5. Albanv City Bank sued for extending building beyond street line, judgment of ^2^ ; but continue to build, Sept. 5. Robert Martin, proprietor of Albany Daily Advertiser, 39, dies, Sept. 8. Wife of Rev. Dr. W'm. B. Sprague, Alary L., aged 33. dies, Sept. 16. Common Council elects San ford Cobb city chamberlain in place of P. A\ Shankland, who resigned, /' Sept. 29. Alban}' Water-works Co. uses Middle creek (in conjunction with the Maezlandt kill). Common Council discusses instituting a city comptroller, as about $400,000 passes annually through the chamberlain ; referred, Oct. 2. Simeon l)e\\ltt lUoodgood, Britton B. Tallman and Isaac N. Corn- stock elected commissioners under Legislative act to attend to the erection of district school houses, Cct. 2. Douw Fonda's wife, Matilda, dies, Oct. 3. Pearl Street Theatre (Leland, Proctor) managed (until March 30, 1839) by Thomas Fuller, Oct. 5. (Jbadiah R. \ an Benthuysen's wife, Sarah, aged 52, dies, Nov. 7 Daniel D. Barnard elected to Assembly, and John B. Van Schaick to the vSenate ; Michael Artcher, sheriff, Nov. 9. Albany Evening Journal for first time displays the cut of an eagle, reaching across the top of the front page, wdiich for fifty years afterwards was used by it or loaned to Argus, depending on results of the political victories ; and on this occasion sarcas- tically queried the old saying of the Democrats, " As goes the Fourth ward, so goes the state.'' Nov. 9 American Lodge, No. ^2, 1. O. O. F., instituted, Dec. 5. River closed to navigation (official record), Dec. 13. Mayor Temiis \'an A'echten re-elected by Common Council, Dec 2y. • • • n! " u "^ ■Xi o .s w w H IS ?i rt -^ > 4J No. 40. TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN. 525 1838. 1838. Mayor Tennis Van Vechten again assumes office, Jan. i. Firemen's Lodge, No. 19, I. O. O. F., instituted, Jan. 4. The Family Newspaper first issued by Solomon Southwick, weekly, Jan. 6. Medical fraternity meets, Dr. Jonathan Eights presiding, and passes a resolution advocating a city hospital, Jan. 7. O. M. Coleman, local mechanic of ingenuity, displays his automaton, a female figure playing a musical instrument, Jan. 10. Commercial Bank, ahead of others, resumes specie payments, Jan. II. Packer, Prentice & Co.'s fur manufactory on Water street de- stroyed by fire, with loss $5,000, Jan. 29. Alms-house superintendent reports 639 paupers therein, Feb. 5. Superintendent of alms-house salary raised to $550, Feb. 5. Orville L. Holley appointed State surveyor-general, Feb. 5. Common Council petitioned to open Colonic street from No. Market (Broadway) to Orchard (No. Pearl) street, Feb. 5. Mail from east lost by ice of river breaking, Feb. 5. Isaiah Townsend, native of Orange county, senior member of I. & J. Townsend, iron founders and metal merchants for 36 years, enterprising and liberal, aged 61, dies, and at a meeting of merchants that day, Erastus Corning presiding, it was resolved to close all the stores of the city and attend his funeral, Feb. 17. Columbia Distilling Co. (John Tracey,— existing in 1906) Dean street, established. Common Council orders Fifth ward burial-ground closed, March 19. River opened to navigation, March 29. Sloops running to New York number 249, schooners 129, April i. Common Council passes law to have excavated the enormous mound on north side of Hamilton street, west of Eagle street, April 2. Common Council unanimously adopts resolution of John Davis to lease the Lancaster school building on west side of Eagle street free of rent for five years to the Albany JMedical College, April 16. E. C. Delavan's mother, Mrs. Hannah Delavan, dies, April 20. Bank of Albany recovers from recent panic and pays out again its own bills, made from new plates, April 26. Benjamin Lattimer, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 78, dies, April 30. City expenses for past year were $240,426.92, reported, May i. 526 TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN. No. 4O. 1838. Charter election, Common Council : G. V. S. Bleecker, Charles S. Olmstead, I. Ichbold L. Jiulson, Josiah Winants, II. John W. Bray, John Davis, Hi. Henry A. Williams, Seth Jarvis, IV. Thomas McElroy, Andrew Kirk, V. Election, May 2. Albany Daily xA-dvertiser passes into hands of former owners, E. W. and Chas. Skmner, and is edited by John B. Van Schaick, May 8. Common Council orders paving of Hallenbake (Grand) street from Hudson avenue to Lydius ( Madison ave. ) street, on petition of Abram Koonz, owner of first house so far south in the city as northeast corner of Grand and Hamilton streets, standing as an outpost, May 8. Douw Fonda, aged 74 years, dies. May 17. Albany Medical College founded by Drs. Alden March and James H. Armsby, with the following professors: Dr. Alden March, surgery ; Prof. E. Emmons, chemistry and natural history ; Dr. J. H. Armsby, anatomy and physiology ; Dr. Henry Green, obstetrics and diseases of women and children ; Dr. David McLachlan, materia medica and pharmacy ; Dr. Thomas Hun, institutes of medicine; Amos Dean, medical jurisprudence; David M. Reese, theory and practice of medicine ; fees for the course $75, May 16. James Goold & Co.'s coach factory destroyed by fire with loss of $45,000, and being considered a public calamity citizens loaned him $20,000 without interest for five years to build anew ; insur- ance having been but $19,000, May 25. Common Council removes John O. Cole, police magistrate and a terror to evildoers, appointing thereto H^azael Kane, June 4. Erastus Corning is elected president of the new Utica & Schenec- tady railroad, later to be part of N. Y. Central road, June 4. The state purchases the residence of Edwin Croswell, No. 29 Elk street, as a home for its governors, paying $19,000, June 8. Celebration of Independence Day, Thomas W. Harman, orator ; John B. \^an Schaick, reader, riiiladelphia State Fencibles parading, July 4. J. Silk Buckingham, famed traveler, delivers course of lectures on Egypt at Female Academy, July 4. The Daily Patriot, abolition, started by J. G. Wallace. July 4. Death of Leverett Cruttenden at Bridgeport, Conii., aged 67, long the landlord of Congress Hall, and subsequently of the Eagle Tavern. His establishment known as the House of Lords lie- cause of the prominent characters stojiping there, was started m 1814 and conducted by him with great eclat for sixteen years, July 14. A,J0. 40. TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN. 527 1838-1839. Third Presbyterian Church, Montgomery street, opened on repair- ing, J"iy 22. Watts Sherman's wife, Sarah L., aged 22, dies, Aug. 4. Third Dutch Church receives new bell, weighing 3,123 lbs., Aug. 23 Second Methodist Church opens meeting-room. No. 2 Green street, Aug. 31. Navigation committee of Common Council reports expendmg $96,090.55 improving the basin, and requiring $36,250 further, Sept. r/. Harmanus Bleecker given public dinner on going abroad, Sept. 2^. Common Council passes law for paving of Eagle street for first time between Hudson avenue and Lvdius street (Madison ave.), Oct. 14- Daniel D. Barnard elected to Congress and John Davis to Assembly ; the vote for Governor Marcy 518 less than Wm. Seward's, Nov. 7. Mrs. Anne Grant, author of " Memoirs of an American Lady," re- ferrino- to Mrs Philip Schuvler, dies at Edinburgh, aged 84, "^ ■ Nov. 7. Elsie A'an Rensselaer, aged 79, dies, . Nov. 21. River closed (official record), ^^o^- ^S- Hector H. Crane, keeper of Eagle Tavern, aged 44, dies. Nov. 27. Albany Exchange Bank formed with capital of $100,000 and John O Wilson 'its first president-, Geo. W. Stanton, vice-president. ^ Dec. 12. Joseph Russell, president of Canal Bank, aged 62. dies. Dec. 25. Barnum Whipple, harbor-master, reports that exclusive of canal- boats 6 180 vessels had arrived and departed during season, Dec. 26. Teunis Van A^echten re-elected Mayor, Dec. 27. 1839 Mayor Teunis Van \'echten again assumes office, Jan. i. William H. Seward inaugurated Governor, Jan. i. Albany Medical College opened by Dr. David M. Reese lecture. -^ Jan. 2. Col. Tohn B. Van Schaick, cultured in literature and editor of the Albany Daily Advertiser, aged 35, dies, Jan. 3. ')2S TEUNIS VAxV VECHTEN. No. 4O. 1839, 1841. Common Council discusses at a special mcelint;- propriety of assum- ing all c.\])ense constructing Albany & West Stockbridge rail- road, ' Jan. 3. Erection of a hospital advocated at meeting by Dr. Jonathan lights and Dr. John Mason F. Cogswell, former presiding, latter sec- retary, Jan. 7. John Wan Ness Yates, son of Chief Justice Yates, and who came to city at age of 14 to study law in ofifice of John \\ Henry. 60, dies. Jan. 10. ]May(^r Teunis ^'an A'echten resigns, Jan. 21. • • • (See No. 41.) (Continued from Xo. 41.) 1841. Teunis \ an \ echten, following J. L. Rathbone, again assumes office of Ma}'or. May i t . Charter election, Mayor, Teunis V-au A'echten ; Common Council: John Simpson, Francis Drvan, I. Thomas Blank, William F. Malburn, TI. G. ^^ S. F.leccker, William Stead, III. John D. Hewson, Charles S. Olmstead, IV. John O. Wilson. Robert C. Russell, V. Thomas McElroy, Thaddeus Joy, W. Charles Chapman, John Kenyon, VII. John Mc Knight, William P>. Stanton, \'1IT. George Merrifield, Thomas Kirkpatrick. TX. r^lichael Artchcr. Joshua T. Jones, X. Election, April 13 ; sworn in. ^lay 1 r. Albany Gaslight Co., incorporated March 27th, plans building a plant, May 12. Steamboat Troy makes trip to Xew \'ork in 8 hrs. 10 mins.. claimed fastest trip on record. Mav 13. Albany Rural Cemetery site selected, four miles north of citv, to west of IVoy Road, Mav 14. George Pomeroy inaugurates first express line in America, his com- pany, with headquarters here, running to Buffalo. May 15. Common Council resolves to remove the South Market located at the Steamboat Square, formerly called the Watering-Place when owned by the Dutch Church, and to lease the same as a steamboat landing. May 21. LAKE BETHESDA. CYPRESS WATER, RURAL CEMETERY GROUNDS. The place is noted throughout America as being unsurpassed for scenery of natural beauty ; site to west of Troy Road, midway Albany and Troy, selected A^ay 14, 1841 ; grounds laid out by David B. Douglas, LL. D. There were 400 acres and 30 miles of drives in 1906; interments to 1907 about 65,000. Xo. 40. TEUXIS VAX VECHTEX. 529 1841. Beth Jacob congregation dedicate new synagogue at Xo. 8 Rose ( Mosher ) street, the first of the kind in the city, ^lay 25. Albany GasHght Co. subscription books opened. May 25. Legislature adjourns after session of 140 days ; t,^- ^^ws, ^lay 26. Trinity Church built. Franklin and Herkimer streets. June. Common Council elects Robert Hewson Pruyn city attorney. June 14. Tames King, eminent attorney, member Board of Regents and Chancellor since death of Simeon DeWitt. aged S^. dies. June 20. Samuel S. Lush, assemblyman and leading lawyer, aged 58, dies, Jime 21. State Agricultural Society re-organized. Common Council passes law to fill in LIudson street pond. June 28. Independence Dav orator. John A. Dix : reader, Thos. :Mc:\Iullen. July 4- A Xorth ferry operated by steam power, July ^O- Bethel Church opened on Pier near Hamilton street bridge. July 14. :\rechanics opposed to state prison labor system meet at City Hall, George Yance presiding, address by H. H. Van Dyck, nothing accomplished bv the heated discussion, July 22. Board of Trade organizes, George W. Stanton acting as chairman, Daniel Fry assecretary. and constitution adopted. July 2/. Henry Van Benthuysen's widow. Cathline, aged 79, dies. Aug. 13. Albert Ryckman. long an alderman, aged 77, dies, Aug. 24. Ambrose' Spencer Townsend. aged 28. dies. Aug. 24. St. John's cemetery on Delaware avenue purchases site. Aug. 28. State Fair first held. Citizens favoring protection to American industry by government hold meeting in ("Old") Capitol. Thomas W. Olcott pre- siding, and resolutions presented by ISIarcus T. Reynolds, John A' L^ Pruvn Stevens, and from Xew York city Joseph Blunt, Sept. 2. Mechanics hold state convention to oppose prison labor. Sept. 2. Board of Trade fullv organizes. John Townsend, president, Sept. 9. Sheriff Adams goes 'to the Helderbergs with a posse in order to ac- complish sale of farms for back rentals. Sept. Q. State Fair of X. Y. State Agricultural Society. (Joel B Xott. Pres't.) first held. Syracuse. Board of Trade condemn the change of terminus of the :Mohawk & Hudson railroad to foot of So. Ferry street, abandoning head of State street station for passengers, Sept. 16. 530 TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN. No. 4O. 1841. MoliHwk (S: Iliulson railroad commencing" to remove tracks leading to the station from junction on Western avenue to head of State street, citizens organize a stage line and begin transfer- ring about 200 passengers daily to the Junction. Sept. 22, Elizabeth Bayard Camj^bell dies at \"an Rensselaer Manor, Sept. 25. Rev. Hodge, Green street Baptist church pastor, preaches farewell, Sept. 26. Third, or South, Dutch Reformed Church, So. Ferry and Green streets, erected 1837 at cost $13,000, burned to the walls, Sept. 28.. Line of 12 stages from Schenectadv, 112 aboard, pass down State street, Oct. 9. John A. Dix elected to Assembly, 535 majority over Azor Taber, and Erastus Corning State Senator, majority 571, Xov. 2. Methodist Episcopal Church, Washington avenue and Swan street, corner-stone laid ceremoniously by Rev. Wm. B. Sprague of the Second Presbvterian church, exercises being held in " Old "^ Capitol, under the pastoral charge of Rev. James Rawson, Xov. 9. Common Council accepts proposition of directors of ^Mohawk & Hudson road ofifering the city for $150,000 their State street property, city to bear expense of doing away witli inclined planes at both ends of the road, the Albany terminal to be by locomotive power as near centre of city as possible, Nov. 16. Jacob N. Clute, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 82, dies, Xov. 21. David Wood, president of Canal Bank, aged 48, dies, X'^ov. 26. Common Coimcil ]:)etitioned by J. Hall and 42 others to remove Arbor Mill burial-ground, as a nuisance to vicinity, Dec. 13. I'irst locomotive ai rives from Boston on Western Railroad Com- pany's line, thus oj^ening a winter route to Xew York by wa}- of Hai tf;)rd and Xew Haven, in 32 hours without night travel, passengers leaving train at Greenbush and crossing on ferr^^ Dec. 19. River closed to navigation, Dec. K). Rev. Duncan Kennedy inslalled pastor X'orth Dutch Church, Dec. 23. Alargaretta Wright, wife of (future ^layor ) William Parmelee, aged 2^, dies at Lansingburg, Dec. 2.\. Celebration in honor of first train from Boston and com])letion of the Western Railroad, bringing 125 Massachuse+.ts guests, ^vho are escorted by the military from Greenbush. ferry to Stanwix Hall for a l)an(|uet given by Air. Landon, Dec 28. No. 40. TEUNIS VAN VECHTEN. 5311 1842. 1842. Lyman Root, an eminent and wealthy citizen, identified with city's commercial enterprises forty years, aged 63, dies, Jan. i. Abraham Cuyler's widow, Elizabeth, dies, Jan. 17. First Presbyterian Church gives concert participated in by lamous English singer, Braham, Jan. 24. Gideon Hawley chosen Regent, vice late James King, Feb. i. River open to navigation, Feb. 4. Steamboat Telegraph arrives despite great freshet, Feb. 6. Azariali C. Flagg appointed State Comptroller a second time. Feb. 7. Mr. Samuel F. B. ^lorso. of New York city, had invented a practical form of machine by which to operate an electric telegraph, its primitive form intended to make use of movable type, to print characters on a paper tape, employing the " intensity " magnet that Professor Henry, of Albany, had discovered in 1828, and which he had publicly described in his paper read before The Albany Institute in March, 1829, and also published, without which peculiar magnet and until its application was pointed out to Morse by his assistant, L. D. Gale, he could not make an electric current operate (by Gale's own testimony) doing the best they knew how, for a distance any greater than from 15 to 40 feet, at which distance the current was so weak as to be barely discoverable. Morse had come to Professor Henry at Princeton several times, while the former was perfecting his in- vention, about 1837, seeking scientific advice in relation to his machine that he was inventing, and Henry had freely accorded it to him, placing all his knowledge at his disposal. It is inter- esting to note (in view of a published attack of Morse of 90 pages printed in a work for which he was responsible, in 1845) that when the Government was deciding the advisability of ap- propriating the sum of $30,000 to allow Morse to run an experi- mental line between Washington and Baltimore, it had sought first the knowledge, as to whether it was likely to work, from Professor Henry, and on him the decision as to making an ap- propriation rested. (Henry endorsed Morse's machine as prac- tical ; the bill for the appropriation was introduced by Hon. C. G. Ferris of New York, in December, 1842; passed the House Feb. 23, 1843, and the Senate on ]\ larch 3rd, to be operated under Morse's patent filed April 7, 1838, issued June 20, 1840; the four \vires extended between the two cities, 40 miles, and 532 TEUNIS N'AN VECHTEN. No. 40. 1842. the first message was sent on May 24, 1843.) This letter, writ- ten by Professor Henry to Morse (described by Morse's biogra- pher as " the most encouraging communication Professor Morse received during the dark ages between 1839 and 1843,") was appended to the Congressional bill to influence its passage, and shows Henry's willingness to help even those working along similar lines, and for which aid Henry was never accorded any- thing but jealous antagonism by Alorse : " My Dear Sir: I am pleased to learn that you have again petitioned Congress in reference to your telegraph ; and I most sincerely hope you will succeed in convincing our Representatives of the importance of the invention ■'■ '■•'■ * Science is now fully ripe for this ap- plication, and 1 have not the least doubt, if proper means be afforded, of the perfect success of the invention * * * and unless some essential improvements have lately been made in these European plans, I should prefer the one invented by your- self. Yours truly, Joseph Henry, Princeton, N. J.," Feb. 24. Common Council by vote 10 to 6 agrees to widen So. Pearl street by taking 15 feet from west side, from State to Howard street, March 7. State Plouse on Eagle street. Pine to Steuben street, completed, costing $350,000. Charter election: Mayor ^ — Barent P. Staats, Democratic, 2,868 votes ; John Townsend, Whig, 2,532 votes ; total votes cast, 5,400; Staats' majority being 336 votes, April 12. (See No. 42.") No. 41. Jan. 24, 1839— Dec. 31, 1839. Jan. 1. 1840— May 1 1, 1840. May 12, 1840— May 11. 1841. No. 41. JARED LEWIS RATHBONE. Date of office: (a) January 24. 1839 — December 31. 1839. (b) January i. 1840 — ]\Iay 11. 1840. (c) May 12, 1840 — May 10, 1841. Date of election: (a) January 21, 1839. (b) December 30, 1839. (c) ]\ray 5, 1840. Political /^arty: Whig. Vote: (a) Appointed bv Common Council, A'an A'ecbten resigned. (b) . (c) 2,466. Opponent: (a) None. (b) None. (c) Erastus Corning, (cc") Barent Sanders. Political party: Democrat. Vote: (a) None. (b) . (c) 2,099, (cc) 4, blank and scattering 19. l\:>tal vote: (a) None. (b) . (c) 4.588- Date of birth: August 2, 1791. Place of birth: Salem, Conn. Parents: Samuel (R.) and Lydia Sparhawk. Education: Good schooling. Married to: Pauline Noyes Pinney. Date: June 26, 1834. Children: (2) Henry Reed, Jared Lawrence. Residence: No. 28 Eagle street, corner State street. Occupation: Provision merchant. 51 Quay street. Rclii^ion: Baptist. Date of death: May 13, 1845. Place of death : No. 28 Eagle street. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Last Mayor chosen by Common Council. Elected to complete Van \ echten's term. Eirst Mayor elected by popu- lar vote. President Alban\- Medical College. .\lderman. Benevolent. No. 41- JARED LEWIS RATHBONE. 535 1839. (Continued from No. 40.) 1839. Jared Lewis Rathbone, having been elected Mayor by the Common Council on January 21st, Mayor Teunis \'an \"echten having resigned, assumes the duties of that office, Jan. 24. Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer, III., aged 75 years, Patroon of the Van Rensselaer Manor, dies. He had lived a life that had brought him honor and esteem of his fellow citizens, and his reputation as a cultured, liberal and virtuous man extended well beyond his city. He was fifth in descent from the original founder or patroon, and was born Nov. i, 1764, in New York city, his mother being Catherine, daughter of Philip Livingston. He married Margaret, third daughter of Gen. Philip Schuyler, at Saratoga, before twenty years of age, and, as a widower, he married Cornelia, only daughter of William Paterson. in May, 1802. Was member of State Assembly and State Senate, Lieu- tenant-Governor, and Congressman ; in military affairs dis- tinguished himself as major-general by placing the American flag victoriously on the Heights of Oueenstown, Canada, in the War of 1812, on Oct. 13th. Daniel D. Barnard's discourse, a complete sketch of life and character, delivered before The Albany Institute, of which Gen. A^an Rensselaer was its first president, delivered April 15, 1839, will be found occupying 46 pages in Munsell's Annals, Vol. Ill, p. 281, Jan. 26. Express messenger, Dimmick, despatched by Baker & Walker at 5 46 p. m., within two hours after death of Patroon Van Rens- selaer, to convey the intelligence to New York, after swimming two rivers where the bridges had been swept away by floods, Redhook and Fishkill, arrives at Carlton House, a distance of more than 150 miles, in 14 hrs. 31 mins.. at 8:20 a. m., Jan. 27. John Townsend elected to succeed Stephen \ an Rensselaer as presi- dent of Albany Savings Bank, January. Soup house opened in the City Hall for those driven from homes by unusually high freshet, Jan. 27. Number of paupers in the alms-house at this time is ^;^2.. Jan. 31. Profits of the Greenbush ferry for past year were $1,081.92. Feb. i. Rev. Edward Allen installed at Fourth Presbyterian Church, Feb. 6. Aid. Richard S. Treat's widow, Gertrude, dau. of Dr. Stringer, dies, Feb. 15. 536 JARED LEWIS RATHBONE. No. 4I. 1839. John Tayler Cooper api^ointed niajor-i>eneral ist Division of New York State Cavalry in place of late Gen. Stephen Van Rens- selaer, Feb. 15 James Boyd, aged yj, dies, Feb. 22. Chamberlain reports to Common Council that the cost of the new steam ferry to Greenbnsh is $8,688.25, Feb. 26. Common Council passes resolution allowing the Alohawk & Hudsoa railroad to extend tracks from Gansevoort to So. Ferry St., Feb. 26. Museum Building' greatly damaged by fire, March 2 H. W. Preston announces that owing to the sudden transfer of the Theatre to St. Paul's Church vestry he should build a new one, March 16. River open and the Swallow arrives, March 2^. Gen. Solomon Van Rensselaer, postmaster 17 years, removed and succeeded by Azariah C. Flagg, ]\Iarch. Pearl Street Theatre, H. W. Preston manager, last performance be- fore being converted into St Paul's Church. March 30. Pearl Street House afire and greatest conflagration in years, burn- ing the block. Pearl, ]\ladison ave., Hamilton and Rose streets. April 20. Relief committee reports expenses of soup kitchen since Jan. 2Sth, and supplying 1,530 persons at one-third of a cent each, April 30. Dr. John F. Townsend, aid to Gov. Seward, unanimously elected brigadier-general, ist Brigade of Horse Artillery, May 6. Legislature adjourns, May 8 Charter election. Common Council: G. \'. S. Bleecker, Ralph Pratt, I. lchal)od L. Judson. George Merrifield, H. Elisha W. .Skinner. John Groesbeck. HI. Stephen T. Thorn. Joel R. Dickerman. W . Adolphus Colburn. Timothy Spears, V. Elec- tion. iNIay 8. North Dutch Church relinquishes rights to the Watering Place. (Steamboat Square) in payment of a claim of the corporation, May 13. Election to decide whether to authorize Coiumon Council to borrow $400,000 to aid construction of Albany & West Stockbridge railroad, resulted in its favor, 3,245 votes for the loan and 625 in opposition to the movement. May 20. Gen. H. V. Du Coudray Holstein, distinguished diplomat and officer under Bonaparte, native of German}-, teacher of French in Female Academy, aged 76, dies, May 2}, VAN RENSSELAER MANOR HOUSE OF 1765. This shows how ihe residence erected in 1765 by Stephen Van Rensse- laer, II., the Patroon, looked until reconstructed in 1843. Portico was small and wings octagonal. From a painting made in 1839. His son, Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer, III., died here on Jan. 26, 1839. No. 41- JARED LEWIS RATHBONE. 537 1839. Common Council appoints George Weed clerk and Robert H. Pruyn city attorney, Hazael Kane police justice, May 27. Bell directed placed in cupola of the jail for fires, June 10. Committees appointed to conduct the city loan to the railroad com- pany, Marcus T Reynolds, Thomas W. Olcott and Lewis Bene- dict for the Albany & West Stockbridge railroad and Pratt, Ten Eyck, Skinner and McAIuUen appointed by mayor for the city, June 10. Francis Bloodgood elected president of New York State Bank, and Rufus H. King vice-president, June 12. Common Council resolves to borrow $650,000 with which to purchase stock of the. Albany & West Stockbridge railroad to amount of $300,000, and to loan remainder to subscribers to stock, July i. Independence Day celebrated, Solomon Southwick orator, July 4 Smith Weed, native of Stamford, Conn., a commissary during the Revolution, wounded at Battle of Danbury, a merchant, aged 85, dies, July 10. President Martin Van Biu^en arrives and is addressed by Gov. William L. Marcv before immense audience before City Hall, July 24. Henry Clay, great American statesman, arrives and puts up at Eagle tavern on So. ]\Iarket street (Broadway), arriving by way of Troy in a barouche, accompanied by John Townsend, Daniel D. Barnard and John I 'ay, and when nearing the city joined by a large procession. Gen. Townsend. marshal, to act as escort, Aug. 17. Plenry Clay leaves in morning by steamboat for New York, Aug. 19. Benjamin Knower, prominent in commercial life, aged 64, dies, Aug 23. Steamboat Albany, Capt. Jenkins, makes 15 landings and makes the trip in 9 hrs. 7 mins. from New York. Aug. 23. Francis P>ret Harte, famous author (dies in England, May 5, 1902) born here, . Aug. 25. Steamboat Rochester arrives, without landing. 8 hrs. 35 mins., Sept. 2. Trinity Churcli. third Episcopal congregation in city, organized, services held in Westerlo, between Church and Dallius streets, Rev. Isaac Swart subsequently chosen rector, Sept. 4. State street bridge to Pier gives way and 21 drown. Steamboat Nortli America built by Devine Burtis. 494 tons, 48 x 132 in. engine. Steamboat Albany makes speed record, arriving in 8 hrs. 49 mins., less TO landings, running time 7 hrs. 49 mins.. never equaled, Sept. 25. :^38 JARED LEWIS RATIIBONE. No. 4I. 1839. Judge Jesse Buel, native of Coventry, Conn., originally a printer, came to Albany in 1814, established The Argns, state printer 1814 to 182 1, many years in Assembly, a regent, candidate for governor in 1836, retired in 1821 to his farm. Albany Nursery, and became world-known as an agriculturist, dies at Danbury, Conn., age 63, Oct. 6 Dr. Rensselaer Gansevoort dies in Louisiana, aged 39, Oct. 19. James D. Wasson's wife Harriet E., dies, Nov. 3. Friend Humphrey elected Senator, H. G. Wheaton Assemblyman, Nov. 6. Solomon Southwick, prominent publisher, aged 66, dies, sketch of his life printed in " Annals of Albany," Vol. V, p. 104. Nov. 18. County Sheriff Michael Artcher resisted by anti-renters in several Helderberg towns, calls out the posse comitatus, and about one thousand citizens accompany him to the Helderbergs, Nov. 30. Sheriff Artcher's posse sets out for Reidsville and meets with oppo- sition four miles beyond Clarkesville, several hundred farmers on horseback forcing the sheriff and posse to turn back, and they arrive at their homes at Albany at 9 p. m., worn out with fatigue, Dec. 2. Sheriff Artcher, reinforced by a number of military companies from Albany, Troy and other places, marches to Clarkesville and maintains military jurisdiction, Dec. 9. Governor issues a proclamation declaring supremacy of laws, Dec. 10. Gen. Averill, with 500 men arrives in Albany from ]\Iontgomery county, for invasion of the Helderbergs against the anti-renters ; but they find they are outnumbered and capitulate. He serves the summonses without opposition, Dec. 11. Sheriff' and the military companies, worn with trudging twelve miles in a deep snow, arrive back at Albany and Troy, the commands being the Albany Burgesses' Corps, Capt. Bayeux ; Albany Union Guards, Capt. Brown ; Albany Republican artillery, Capt. Strain; ist Company Van Rensselaer Guards, Capt. Kearney; 2nd Company Van Rensselaer Guards, Capt. Berry ; Troy Ar- tillery, Capt. Howe ; Troy Citizens' Corps, Capt Pierce ; Troy City Guards, Capt. Wicl-ces. They were composed of the edu- cated men of the respected families. Dec. 15. River closed to navigation, Dec. 19. Jared Lewis Rathbone re-elected ALayor by Common Council. Dec. 30 • • • No. 41. JARED LEWIS RATHBONE. 539 1840. 1840. Jared L. Rathbone again assumes office of Mayor, Jan. i. Population of the city at this time 33,762. Population of the State of New York 2,428,921. Slaves in New York State number only four. Female Academy obtains a fine collection of busts from George Combe, of Edinburgh, who lectures there on phrenology, Jan 6. Meeting- held in St. Peter's church vestry to consider providing a place of worship for boatmen of the harbor, Jan. 31. Solomon Van Rensselaer's wife, Arriet, aged 65, dies, Feb. 3. Wm. E. Bleecker elected president of Young Men's Association, Feb. 4. American Lodge, No. ^2, I. O. O. F., re-instituted, Feb. 11. St. Paul's Church, So. Pearl street, formerly the Theatre, (west side, bet. Beaver st. and Hudson ave.) consecrated by Bishop Onderdonk, Feb. 22. River open to navigation, Feb. 25. Kosciuszko, famous Polish patriot (born in Lithuania, Russia, Feb. 12, 1746) who served with the Americans in the Revolution, and commander-in-chief and dictator in the Polish insurrection of 1794, arrives by boat from New York as a visitor to the city, Feb. 26. Post-Office moved into the Exchange Building, Feb. 2y. Grade of Lodge between Howard and Beaver streets established, March 2, Francis Bloodgood, former Mayor, a graduate of Yale, lawyer, many years clerk of Supreme Court, a founder of New York State Bank and president at this time, a man of unusually fine disposition, kindliness and integrity, aged 72, dies, March =;. Tennis Van Vechten elected president of Albany Insurance Co. to fill vacancy caused by death of Francis Bloodgood, March 16. Rufus H. King elected president of the New York State Bank to fill vacancy caused by death of Francis Bloodgood, March 16. Oratorio of " The Creation " at 2nd Presbyterian Church, April 9. Y. J\L A. removes from No. 451 Broadway to Exchange Building. " The Cutivator " and "' Genesee Farmer " consolidated by Luther Tucker. Common Council appropriates $50 towards purchase of a bell for the Third Dutch Reformed Church in So. Ferry street, April 13, 540 JARED LEWIS RATHBONE. No. 4I. 1840. Chamberlain reports city expenses past year as $246,055.47, April 21. Jared L. Rathbone resigns office of Mayor, April 27. Charter election, at which Jared L. Rathbone, Whig, receives 2,466 votes ; Erastus Corning, Democrat, receives 2,099 votes ; ma- jority for J. L. Rathbone, 2)7- votes, May 5. • • • Jared Lewis Rathbone assumes office of Mayor, May 12. Charter election. Mayor, Jared Lewis Rathbone ; Common Council : G. V. S. Bleecker, John D. Hewson. L George Merrifield, Visscher Ten Eyck, IL John Groesbeck, Arnold Nelson, IIL James Robinson, Joel R. Dickerman, IV. Thomas McElroy, Charles Chapman, V. Election, May 5 ; sworn in, May 12. Legislature adjourns, having passed 318 laws, May 14. A count made on So. Market street (Broadway) corner of Hudson avenue, shows that on this day there passed 9,762 persons on foot, 407 wagons, 146 stages and 234 other vehicles before night. May 14. Expenses of Fire Department for year to May ist, $10,950, May 15. Barent Bleecker, some years president of Bank of Albany, 80, dies, June I. Edward Livingston, distinguished citizen, Assembly clerk, district- attorney, speaker of Assembly, dies, June 16. Log cabin erected at corner of Maiden Lane and Dean street by followers of the party of " Tii)pecanoe and Tyler, too," built by hundreds of voters in one day, as a rallying point, June 27. Independence Day orator Uriah Marvin, Jr., reader, Geo. Vance, Jr., July 4- Robert Packard, of the printing firm of Packard & Van Benthuysen, aged 66 years, dies, July 15. Common Council receives petition signed by Dr. Charles D. Town- send and 180 others requesting that the name of North Market street be changed to Broadway. Teunis \^an \^echten opposed, July 20. Name of Capitol street changed to Park street, July 20. Bank of Albany elects Jacob H. Ten Eyck its (7th) president, to succeed Barent IHeeckcr, deceased. Common Council resolves to change name of North Market street to Broadway by a vote of 9 to 3. Aug. 3. Draw of the bridge at foot of State street, leading to the Pier, falls, and 21 persons in the crowd watching an insane man escape are drowned because of the nunil)er overwhelmed and strug- o-iino- Aug. 22. GOVERNOR \V. L. MARCV. REV. BARTHOLOMEW T. WELCH. RURAL CE:\IETERY. Rev. Bartholomew T. Welch, D. D., publicly advocated a common burial- ground outside the city at a meeting held in Exchange Building, Dec. 31, 1840. Archibald Mclntyre presiding: chartered April 2, 1841. Gov. Marcy died July 4, 1857. In 1868 about 40,000 removed here from State and Knox sts. No. 41. .TARED LEWIS RATHBONE. 541 1840. Elizabeth Ann Dexter, wife of Hon. Marcus T. Reynolds, residing in Park Place, later site of the new Capitol, dies, Aug. 30. Steamboat Eureka, Capt. Sherman, using boilers transferred from the Novelty, makes her first appearance, Sept. 9. Van Rensselaer Manor House at head of Broadway and east about 200 feet of Troy Road, being remodeled by Architect Upjohn, east and west wings added, addition of a stone porch of the Corinthian order, the cream-colored bricks covered with sanded mastic and the whitestone replaced by New Jersey sandstone. Steamboat South America built by Devine Burtis, 638 tons, 260 x 26 x9 feet, engine 54 x 132 in. Jacob L. Lochner, fruit merchant, continues the firm established by August Wolenman on No. Market st. (Broadway). Van Alstyne & Son, hardware merchants (conducted by Alexander Davidson in 1845, afterwards by Maurice E. Viele and later by Albany Hardware & Iron Co.) establish business at corner State and Green sts. Elisha Kane, long a prominent citizen, dies Washington, 63, Oct. 3. Phoenix Lodge, No. 41, I. O. O. F., instituted, Oct. 3. Harmanus Bleecker elected president of St. Nicholas Society, Nov. 18. Thaddeus Kingsley, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 82, dies, Nov. 29. City canvassers report the population as follows : White males, 15,729; white females, 17,021; colored males, 378; colored females, 499 ; total population, 33,627, Dec. 4. River closes to navigation, Dec. 5. Common Council, seeking a good source of water for city, reports consent of Air. Van Rensselaer to lease the flow of Patroon's creek for $800 per annum, Dec. 21. Benjamin Covell, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 88, dies, Dec. 24. Albany Rural Cemetery first projected at a meeting of citizens held at Young Men's Ass'n rooms, Archibald Mclntyre presiding and Ira Harris serving as secretary, addressed by Rev. B. T. Welch, D. D., of the Baptist Church. Resolutions reported by a com- mittee consisting of Marcus T. Reynolds, Amos Dean, Thomas Worth Olcott, Tennis Van Vechten, Geritt Yates Lansing and Lewis Benedict. A committee on organization and to select site was named as follows: Rev. B. T. Welch, Stephen Van Rensselaer, John A. Dix, John O. Wilson, James Horner, An- thony M. Strong, Peter Gausevoort, Ezra P. Prentice, Ira Harris, Thomas W. Olcott, Ellis Baker, Otis Allen and John ■ Y. Wendell, Dec. 31. 542 JARED LEWIS RATHBONE. No. 4I. 1841. 1841. Express statue run from Albany to New York by the New York American publishers in the speediest time ever made, 12 hrs. 40 mins., Jan. 5. Freshet within a few inches as high as the great freshet of 1839, Jan. 9. James INlcKown resigns office of Recorder of the city, occupied fif- teen years, and is succeeded by William Parmelee, Jan. 10. Charles E. Dudley who had been the 34th Mayor, dies. His father, Charles, had been the King's collector of customs in Rhode Island, and the son, born at Johnson Hall, Staffordshire, Eng., May 23, 1780, was educated at Newport and came here in 1819, engaging in mercantile pursuits and making several trips to India; was State Senator 1820-24, ^"^1 United States Senator 1829-33, Jan. 23. Citizens meet at Y. M. A. Hall and discuss making application to Legislature for a bridge across river because of the many days of no communication, when neither sleighs upon the ice nor ferries are able to run, the Mayor presiding and Messrs. Samuel Stevens and John V. L. Pruyn speaking. A committee named to apply. Jan. 30. Peter Gansevoort's wife. Mary Sanford. aged 27, dies, Feb. 5. James G. Brooks, former editor of Daily Advertiser, dies, Feb. 20. Alderman McElroy reports favorably to Common Council dividing the city into 10 wards and holding annual charter election on second Tuesday in April, the same date as observed by New York, and thus shut out traveling voters, Feb. 23. Ezra P. Prentice and others petition Common Council owning prop- erty in Fox street to change the name to Canal street, Alarch i. Fire chief reports that during past six months there were only three fires, and the total loss not over $250, March 3. Cannon fired at sunrise and general celebration until evening, closed with fireworks in honor of inauguration of President William Henry Harrison, March 4. River ice passes out from before the city, March 2t,. Assembly committee on a bridge over Hudson reports adversely. March 26. Gen. Solomon \'an Rensselaer reinstated as postmaster, March 26. Henry G. Wheaton appointed district attorney, March 2/. ^^°-4I- JARED LEWIS RATHBOXE. r^o 1841. Albany Gas Light Company incorporated, Henry L Webb presi- dent, March 27 EHzabeth A'an Rensselaer, wife of John Bleecker, aged 72,, dies! March 29. 1 iniothy Powers, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 90, dies, April 2 Albany Gas Light Co. locates at Arch and Grand streets' capitalized at $100,000; President, Henry L. Webb; Thomas W. Olcott, James Stevenson and Joel Rathbone, directors, April i.' Albany Rural Cemetery Association chartered, ' April o Steamboat Troy built by William H. Capes, 724 tons, 295 x 30 x~9 feet, engine 44 x 120 in. Steamboat Columbia put in commission. News of the death of President William Henry Harrison on April 4th, received at Albany on April 6th, and the day of the funeral was observed by exercises in the Second Presbyterian Church ; but the firemen's torchlight procession postponed until following night because of inclement weather, April 10. Low buildings at s. w. cor. State and Broadway being removed for erection of a 4-story block to be known as Douw Building, April 12. Charter election in which the vote for j\Iayor results : Tennis Van Vechten, Whig. 2,449; Gerrit Yates "Lansing, Democrat, 2,339; blank and scattering, 40 ; total, 4,828 ; \^an Vechten's majority over Lansing, no, and he is declared elected Alayor of Albany, April 13. • • • (See No. 40.) No. 42. Saratt ptiltp S^taate. May lO, 1842 —April 17. 1843. No. 42. BARENT PHILIP STAATS. Date of office: May 10, 1842 — April 17. i'^43. Date of election: April 12, 1842. Political party: Democrat. Vote: 3,031. Opponent: (a) John Townsend, (aa) Wrr^. Mayle. Political party: Whig. Vote: 2,429, (aa) 54, blank and scattering- 18. Total vote: 5,532. Date of birth: September 25, 1796. Place of birth: Staats Island, Rensselaer county. Parents: Philip (S.) and Annatje Van Alstyne. Education: Medical College. Married to: (a) Maria Goiirlay. (b) Maria Ann Winne (d. May 9, 1830). (c) Caroline Porter. Date: (a) (b) November 24, 182^. (c) 1835. Children: (a) Plelen (d. y.), Helen (Stokes). ( b ) John ( d. y. ) , Anna Sickler. Residence: No. 53 North Pearl street. Occupation: Physician. Religion: Episcopalian. Date of death: July 9, 1871. Place of death: No. 61 North Pearl street. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Doctor. Remarks: Alderman. Assembly, 1834. Supervisor, old fifth ward. First penitentiary physician. Strictly temperance, genial, generous, and possessed of a strong sense of justice. 42. BARENT PHILIP STAATS. 1842-1843. From a photograph made from life by J. H. Abbott, Albany, owned in 1904 by his granddaughter, Mrs. Charles W. Abrams. No. 42. BARENT PHILIP STAATS. 547 1842. (Continued from No. 40.) 1842. Dr. Barent Philip Staats assumes the office of Mayor of Albany, having been elected at the Charter election held on April 12, 1842, when as the Democratic candidate he received 2,868 votes to the 2,532 votes cast for the Whig candidate, ex-Mayor John Townsend; majority 336, May 10. James R. Rose elected clerk of the Common Council by that board, Andrew J. Colvin city attorney, John Bratt surveyor and S. A'. R. Ableman alms-house superintendent, by vote 12 to 10, May 10. Charter election. Mayor, Barent Phili]) Staats; Common Council: William Chambers, William L. Osborn, I. William P. Mal- burn, David Burhans, II. Bradford W. Hand, Argalus W. Starks, III. Chauncey Whitney, Abram Koonz, IV. Visscher Ten Eyck, Andrew White, V. Cornelius Ten Broeck, Jacob L. Winnie, VI. Charles Chapman, John \'an Volkenburgh, VII. John McKnight, Jacob Downing, VIII. Hazael Kane, William R. Ford, IX. Michael Artcher, Joshua I. Jones, X. Election, April 12; sworn in. May 10. Common Council discusses the case of Engine Company No. 9, which at the recent fire dragged its engine up the hill and left it standing before the City Hall because of certain remarks by the previous Common Council, and expecting to be exon- erated by the new board ; but decision went against the company by vote of 10 to 9, May 16. Captain Samuel Schuyler, aged 61, dies. May 16. Methodist Church, A\'ashington ave. and Swan St., dedicated. May 22. Capt. David Olmstead, native of Ridgefield, Conn., who came to this city in 1798, and for many years prominent as a river navigator and city superintendent, aged 72 years and surviving his wife, Dorcas, aged 71, by only four days, dies. May 31. City treasurer reports expenditures of past year as $193,877.50 and the receipts as $197,639.16. June i. Case of Engine Company No. 9 again before the Common Council and a vote to adjourn without action resulting in a tie, 8 to 8, the Mayor cast a vote against adjourning; but the Whigs with- drew and left the board without a quorum, Jwne 22. People's Line first operates its boats as a night line, June. Schuyler & Brainerd Towing Line formed, June. 548 BARENT PHILIP STAATS. No. 42. 1842. Independence Day celebrated ; Rev. John N. Campbell, orator, and William N. Strong the reader. The temperance societies and the Young Men's Association also hold ceremonies, each witii orator and reader, and the Germans hold a celebration of their own, jnly 4. Forbes Mansion built at Bath-on-the-Hudson (opposite the north end of this city) a mile above Greenbush on an elevation over- looking the Hudson river, by William Patterson \^an Rensse- laer, younger brother of Stephen A"an Rensselaer, the patroon residing in the Manor House at the head of Broadway. Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer's century plant that he had owned more than fifty years, having purchased it soon after the Revo- lution at an auction sale of a confiscated estate in New York city, when it was full-grown, advanced to maturity by artificial heat in his extensive conservatory and exhibited for a small fee for the benefit of the Albany Orphan Asylum building, July 23. Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer's century plant putting forth a high stalk and about to bloom, growing at rate of i8 to 24 inches in a day, now 21 feet in height, persons coming specially to view it even so far as from Ohio, Sept. 13. Citizens assemble at the Capitol, Erastus Corning presiding, in opposition to grading of State street at a time of financial dis- tress, Sept. 17. South Market, erected in 1829, at the ancient Watering Place, later the Steamboat Square, taken down and the place graded for steamboat wharfage, leased to Isaac Newton at $1,000 a year for term of three years, Sept. 17. Oliver Teall, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 84, dies, Sept. i(). Mrs. Christina Heaxt, oldest citizen, aged 102 years, dies, Sept. 20. State Fair held for the second time, James S. Wadsworth it'^ president, and the first time exhibiting at Albany. Musical instruction given in city schools for the first time. Prof. Ferdinand 1. llsley. Boston & Albany or " Middle " ferry established. State House, east side of Faglc street. Pine to vSteuben st., costing $350,000, completed. Herkimer street ordered excavated from Eagle to Eark st., Oct. 3. Common Council accepts invitation to attend celebration of the Croton aqueduct extended bv New York's Common Council. Oct. 3. Capt. Franklin Townsend and his \\'ashington Artillerists go on first target practice excursion, Oct. 18. m ■-2 o H H o X ^ C o hfl rt 03 O. u j; c •u \- t; o c T) in en 3 " hr 4> jj rt (Y) C/) ro hfl F ^ 03 O CO "o IT) \n t-^ h- 1 o bn c -o 2 ^ \ No. 43- FRIEND HUMPHREY. 555 1843-1844. use, and the company agreeing to proceed at once to construct a rail route along Patroon's creek, to connect with the Boston ferry at foot of Maiden Lane, Nov. 27. River frozen over on the 5th and closed to navigation, Dec. 10. Abraham Van Vechten elected city attorney to succeed Horace B. Webster, deceased, Dec. 11. South Baptist Society dedicates new edifice on west side of So. Pearl street at head of Herkimer street, Dec. 25. 1844. Gerrit V. S. Bleecker's wife, Jane Shepherd, aged 43, dies, Jan. i. Otis Dimmick. renowned as a rapid messenger on horse, carries the Governor's Alessage to Troy in 24 minutes, Jan. 2. Nicholas Bleecker, aged 86, dies, Jan. 8. Anthony Rhoades Armington, aged yj, dies, Jan. 22. Thermometer 14 degrees below zero, Jan. 28. Charles Smyth, first agent of tow-boats on river, aged 60, dies, Feb. 6. Benjamin Austin, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 87, dies, Feb. 14. Washington Rifle Company organized, Feb. 22. Salem Dutcher, a prominent merchant, aged 41, dies in New York, Feb. 25. Col. Robert Elliott, assistant postmaster quarter of century, dies, March, 10. John V. Henry, Jr., who had been postmaster at Ann Arbor, Mich., dies at Jackson, Mich., March 11. Ice in river breaking up, no communication with east shore, March 14. River open to navigation (Government record), March 18. Third Presbyterian Church sells its place on Montgomery street and buys a lot on Clinton Square and Chapel street, March 29. Common Council takes steps to aid establishment of a State Normal school in this city, April i. Albany Hydrant Co. formed by John Townsend, John Keyes Paige and some others. Law for incorporation of the Albany Penitentiary on April 13th, is prepared by the city attorney, April 10. Albany Waterworks Co. increases capital, $40,000 to $80,000. 3:3 50 FRIEND IIUMPIIREV. No. 43. 1844. Mayor Friend f luniphrey re-elected at the Charter election, receiving 3,268 votes as the Whig candidate ; George W. Stanton, 2,638 votes as the Democratic candidate ; Thaddeus Joy, 143 votes ; Nathaniel Safford, 30 votes ; blank and scattering, 7 ; total. 6,086 votes cast; Humphrex^'s majority over Stanton, 630 votes, April 9. • • • Mayor Friend Flumphrey again assumes office, he having been elected at the Charter election held on April 9th by a majority of 630 votes, as the Wdiig candidate, April 16. Common Council elects Sylvanus FI. H. Parsons clerk of board; H. H. Hickcox, deputy chamberlain ; Abraham Van Vechten, city attorney, April 16. Common Council lets contract to Kirkpatrick &: LaGrange to supply the alms-house with meat at 2J/2 cents per pound, April 16. Charter election, Mayor Friend Humphrey ; Common Council : William Chambers, Homer R. Phelps, F Peter Carmichael. Packard Van Benthuysen, H. Robert Freeman, G. \\ S. Bleecker, HF William Adams, Denison Worthington, IV. Thomas McMullen, George Dexter. V. William McElroy, Edward AF Teall. XL John \^an Ness, Jr., Timothy Spears, VH. John McKnight, David D. Ramsey, Ylll. Alfred B. Street, Christopher Adams, IX. Michael Artcher, Philander Coley, X. Election. xA.pril 9; sworn in. April 16. Hugh Humphrey, for 26 years superintendent of the Water Works Co., resigns, April 25 Montgomery Hall demolished, April 30 Citv chamberlain reports for past year expenditures, $303,344.98 and receipts, $322,809.65. Alay i New York State Normal wSchool established at x\lbany (David B Page its first principal) by Fegislative Act, ]\Iay 7 Remains of Col. John Mills, who fell in the Battle of Sackett's Harbor on May 29, 1813, interred in centre of Capitol Park, on a line with centre of State street ; Robert E. Temple delivering a glowing eulogy in his memory, May 29. Steamboat South America makes record trip from New York, run- ning time only 7 hours. May 30. Capt. Thomas Bayeux, aged 43, dies, June 4. Stanwix Hall, renovated, opened Ijy Wheeler & Bromley, June 10. Common Council petitioned by John F. Winne, Joseph Hall and others to do away with the Arbor Hill burial-ground on Ten Broeck street, as adjacent land had been graded lower and falling soil revealed coffins ; decision to remove remains to Rural Cemeterv, June 10. No. 43. FRIliXD HUMPHREY. 557 1844. A hospital for the city demanded by twelve clergymen writing to The Argus, June 12. DeWitt Clinton's remains, interred in the burial-ground on Swan street, removed to New York for burial, June 21. Independence Day celebrated ; oration by Charles L. Austin ; A. D. Robinson, reader of the Declaration ; Col. Sam'l Van Vechten marshal of the parade, July 4. Westerlo A^an Rensselaer dies, July 8. Resolutions passed on " repeal movement " in Ireland, at a meeting held in the " Old " Capitol, John L. Schoolcraft presiding, July 8. Hope Lodge, No. 2, I. O. O. F., (instituted April 24, 1826) re-in- stituted, July 15. Delavan House (Broadway, Steuben, Montgomery and Columbia streets) being erected by Edward C. Delavan, July 20. Third Presbyterian Church, facing Clinton Square at southwest corner of Patroon street (Clinton ave.) corner-stone laid, July 29. Philomathean Lodge, No. 711, G. L^. O. of O. F. granted dispensa- tion. July. Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer's wife, Cornelia, aged 64, dies at New York, Aug. 6. Wm. L. Stone, former editor of Daily Advertiser, aged 52, dies, Aug. 15. Hudson Avenue Methodist Church dedicated, Sept. 27. Col. Nicholas Van Rensselaer's wife, Eliza, aged 85, dies at Green- bush, Sept. 28. Mohawk & Hudson railroad trains first pass down new tracks of Tivoli Hollow to depot at foot of IVIaiden Lane adjacent to the Boston ferry, which makes Stanwix Hall a most popular hostelry, Sept. 30. Albany Rural Cemetery consecrated, military, fireman and civic bodies uniting in an imposing procession, the clergy carrying out religious exercises, and Hon. Daniel D. Barnard delivering address. Oct. 7. John Cook organizes the second band Albanv ever had. Henry G. Wheaton elected Congressman and Ira Harris Assembly- man, Nov. 5. Albany Gas Light Co. (incorporated March 27. 1841) subscribed for successfully in the sum of $100,000, Nov. 13. Albany Savings Bank first open daily in the Fall. Henry Trowbridge, Albany Museum's founder, aged 69, dies, Dec. 5. 558 FRIEND HUMPHREY. No. 43. 1844-1845. Christian Miller, present at the inauguration of Washington when an artillerist, coming to Albany in 1789, agent for John Jacob Astor in fur trade (born in Hanau, Ger., Mch. 7, 1767) aged 78, dies. Dec. 6. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 17. New York State Normal School opened in building formerly the Mohawk & Hudson depot, near the northeast corner of State and Eagle streets, and later Van Vechten Hall, David Perkins Page created its first principal, paying rental of $1,200 to rail- road, Dec. 16. Mayor, recorder and supervisors directed to secure site for the Albany Penitentiary, (authorized by Act of April 13th), Dec. 19. First Methodist Church, south side of Hudson street (avenue) be- tween Grand and Philip streets, dedicated, Dec. 25. Albany Burgesses' Corps, Emmet Guards, Van Rensselaer Guards and Washington Riflemen (protect Hudson, N. ;Y., against Anti-renters, Dec. 31. 1845. Silas Wright inaugurated Governor of New York, Jan. i. Population of the city at this time 41,152 persons, Jan. i. Townsend House, on site of Montgomery Hall, opened as hotel, Jan. I. Common Council directs that the morning bell be struck from Feb. I St, at sunrise instead of at 8 a. m., and that the bell of the Fourth Presbyterian also be struck, Jan. 6. David \". P. Colvin, aged 45, dies, Jan. 7. Telegraph line first completed from Albany to Utica, Jan. 31. First telegraj)h office in city opened under O. S. Wood, in Exchange Building, Feb. i. John \'an Ruren appointed state attorney-general, Feb. 3. River open (Government record), and steamboat Norwich arrives, Feb. 24. The city having obtained possession of Arbor Hill cemetery, on Ten Brocck St.. which was conveyed to Dirck Bradt and 11 others bv Ste]:)hcn \'an Rensselaer Oct. 31, 1764, to bury corpses of Ren^- selaerswyck. decides to convey the property to Stephen Van Rensselaer, March 25. Steamboat Swallow wrecked near Athens, and among the 35 persons drowned three from this city, April 6. >» X3 tn tn ' " ^! a^^fo^ rih^- -' ^--^'-- ^- - ^~ March 15. ( See Xo. 40. ) No. 4-6. April 18, 1848 — April 16, 1849. No. 46. JOIIX TAYLOR. Date of oflicc: April 18, 1848-April 16, 1849. Date of election: Ay,v'\\ 11, 1848. Politieal party: Wliig. l^ote: 3,120. Opponent: Thomas lluii. Political party: Democrat. J'ote: 2, 991, ])laiik and scatterings 4. Total vote: 6,1 15. Date of birtli: March 13. 1790. Place of birth: Chester, England. Parents: John ( T. ) and Phoebe Bnrnop. Education: Common school. Married to: (a) Mary Richmond, (b) Esther E. Wiltse. Date: (a) ]\lay 13, 1819. (b) ?\Iay 15, 1844. Children: ( a-5 ) Joseph P)nrnop, Anna Gascoigne (Gilbert). John Richmond, Edmund Briggs, William Henry, (b-i) Elizabeth Ellison. Residoice: Xo. 73 Lyrlins street (Madison avenue). Occjipatio)i : Brewer. Religion: Episcopalian. Date of death: September 13, 1863. Place of death: Xo. 2=^y State street. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Honoraljle. Remarks: X'^oted for his charitw integrity, industry, and possessed finest private library. 46. JOtlN TAYLOR. 1848- 1849. From a photograph made from life by McDonnald & Sterry, and owned in 1904 by his daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth E. Taylor. No. 46. JOHN TAYLOR. 593 1848. (Continued from No. 45.) 1848. John Taylor is sworn in as the Mayor of Albany, having been elected at the Charter election held on April nth, when he received 3,120 votes as the Whig candidate, his opponent, Thomas Hun, receiving 2,991 votes as the Democratic candi- date; blank and scattering, 4 votes; total, 6,115 votes; Taylor's majority over Hun being 129 votes, April 18. L. D. Holstein elected Clerk of the Board of Aldermen ; Hooper C. Van Vorst, City Attorney; Geo. W. Carpenter, Surveyor; Nelson W. Scovel, Marshal; John McBride, Overseer of Poor; Henry B. Fay, Aims-House Physician, April 18. Charter election, Mayor, John Taylor; Common Council: William L. Osborn, Lucien B. Laney, I. George B. Riggs, John W. Harcourt, H. Charles W. Godard, Stephen T. Thorn, HI. George T. Ladue, Abram Koonz, IV. Henry B. Bleecker, James McNaughton, V. John A. Livingston, Charles M. Jen- kins, VI. John Benson, William Gillespie, VII. Patrick M. McCall, John Plarrison, VIII. William Gumming, Richard H. Thompson, IX. Michael Artcher, Daniel E. Bassett, X. Elec- tion, April II; sworn in, April 18. Steamboat Armenia makes first appearance, leaving New York at 7 a. m. and arriving at 4 o'clock, making usual landings, April 22. Two large fires, one bounded by Church, Westerlo, Dallius and John streets, destroying 20 buildings, loss $30,000; other start- ing at Green and Beaver, destroying 20 buildings, loss $60,000, April 24. Beth Jacob, Jewish synagogue, Fulton St., consecrated, April 28. Harmanus P. Schuyler's widow, Sarah, dies, April 30. Common Council offers reward of $100 for discovery of anyone setting any building in the city afire. May i. Steamboats Alida and Hendrik Hudson race from New York to Albany, both leaving at 7 a. m., the former arriving at 2 :55 p. m., and the latter at 3:10 p. m., never more than a mile apart. May 5. Steam propeller named Albany, built in Philadelphia, passengers and freight, 140 feet long, 240 tons, arrives from Hartford, May 8. Severe frost, injuring buds. May 14. 594 JOHN TAvr.oK. No. 46. ^ 1848. r.oard of Trade starts operations in Rotunda of the Exchange, May 15. ]()}• & Alonteath's office on the dock robbed of $800 in counterfeit money that had accumulated in business, May 20. Matthew Gregory, Revohitionary officer, merchant, age 91, (hes, June 4. Apphcation made to Albany County Court for incorporation of Cohoes village, (under Act of 1847) area, i34- sq. miles; pop- ulation, 4.200, Jime 5. I'oys fight with cobbles at a fire on Arbor Hill for lionor of drawing the hose-cart, June C. Edward C. Delavan's wife, Abliy AI., aged 47, dies, Jime 17. Datus E. Frost's provision store, I.ydius street (Madison ave. ) and Swan street afire and firemen fail to attend, engaging in a pitched battle because of rivalry, at State and Pearl streets, during whicli all the windows of the neighborhood are broken by missiles, June 22. l)ishop Hughes lays the corner-stone of the Cathedral of the Im- maculate Conception, • . July 2. Capt. Abraham Van O'Linda's remains arrive from -Mexico and are given military escort to the City Hall, July 4. Capt. A. A"an (_)"Linda buried, eulogy by Col. John Sharts, July 7. Workman killed working on foundation of new Cathedral, J"iy 7- Canal Bank closed by Comptroller, investigation ordered, July 1 1. Hon. Erastus Corning presides at the " Old " Capitol at an enthusi- astic meeting of the Friends of Ireland, July 13. Workmen numbering 300 engaged in erecting a new depot. 750 x 133 feet, to accommodate the Boston trade, July 17. Rev. Benj. X. Martin installed at 4th Presbyterian Church, July 19. Ex-IVIayor l'>arent P. Staats presides at a meeting of the liarn- burners in the Capitol to aid nomination of Martin \ an I'urcn for President, July 19. Co. H, 1st Reg't N. Y. Volunteers under Capt. John G. Farnsworth, who succeeded the late Capt. Abraham A'an O" Linda, killed, arrive on the Hendrik Hudson on return from war in Mexico, only 45 of the 70 privates surviving, and are escorted by a dozen military bodies in a i)arade in which they are loudly cheered, July 25. District school children luunbering 2,000 hold anniversary exercises in Capitol ])ark and ])roceed to Kane's Walk, So. Pearl and VVesterlo sts. for an enjovable time, Julv 28. niMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHEDRAL. Organized in 1847; corner-stone laid July 2, 1848; Patrick C. Keely, architect; dedicated November 21, 1852. No. 46. JOHN TAYLOR. 595 1848. Middle Dutch Churcli (Second) operates its new organ, costing $4,000, and largest in the city, July 31. Mayor John Taylor presides at a meeting of the Friends of Ireland held in the "Old" Capitol, to advocate freedom, Julv 31. Dr. Jonathan Eights, a foremost physician of his day and who had practiced with eminent success for half a century, dies at his residence corner of No. Pearl and Columbia streets, aged 75^ ^ _ Aug. 10. Dr. Morrell ascends in a balloon from jNIineral vSpring Garden on So. Ferry street and sails northward, Aug. 15. Thomas Alaher, 8 years old, drowned in the Foxen kill pond at the head of Canal street, being the sixth similar fatality there in past two years, Aug. 15. " The Great Fire " started by a washerwoman's bonnet at the Albion Hotel, corner of Broadway and Herkimer street, the flames spreading to the north by a strong south wind, sweeping both sides of Broadway and Church street, and crossing the water to the Pier, devastating everything to Maiden Lane and along Broadway to Hudson avenue ; but at night lessened by heavy rainfall ; 600 buildings burned, including the Eagle Tavern on Broadway ; loss $3,000.000 ; burnt area 37 acres ; greatest width being 700 feet west from the river on Herkimer st., and greatest length on one street being 1,600 feet along Quay St., Aug. 17. Jealous fire companies engage in riot at So. Pearl and State streets, and manv of the firemen are seriouslv injured, Aug. 19. Common Council ordains that no wooden building or one covered with wood be erected east of Lark street, and that cornices must be of metal or incombustible material, Aug. 21. James Hanley who was shot on the 19th at the riot among jealous fire companies at State and Pearl streets, dies, Aug. 26. Common Council determines to improve the grade of streets in the recently Inu'ued area, especially raising the level of Broadwav between Hamilton street and Lydius street (Madison ave. ) which was under water each spring, Aug. 28. Schuyler Steamboat Tow-line started. Col. Robert E. Temple returns from the Mexican war, Sept. i. Rev. Elias Vanderlip, patriach of the Methodist Episcopal Church in this city, dies. Born at Carl's Neck, Staten Is., Feb. 10, 1765, he came to Albany fatherless in 1796, and opened a shoe shop; ordained deacon in 1800 and elder in 1804, preach- ing here 1805 to 1836, wlien he rested from his labors because of his age, Sept. 3. Mulford & Wendell's jewelry store, Samuel Stevens' law library and Gavit's daguerreotype studio burned; loss $12,000, Sept. 9. 59^ JOHN TAYLOR. No. 46. 1848. New steam ferry, T. W. Olcott, put on for the Boston road, Sept. 12. Gen. John A. Dix nominated at Utica for governor by the Barn- stormer or Free vSoil party, Sept. 13. Common Council determines to extend the steamboat landing to Lydius street (Madison ave.), Sept. 18. City officers and Common Council call in a body upon General Worth, who is staying at Congress Hall, Sept. 19. New York city remits $12,035 to sufferers from the great fire that devastated the southeastern part of the city on the r7th of last month, Sept. 19. The new rails of the Mohawk & Hudson railroad being completed and the coaches fitted with india-rubber springs, the trip from Schenectady made in 24 minutes, a record for 42 miles per hour, Sept. 22. Rufus W. Peckham address the Old Hunkers at a ratification of Democratic nominations in the " Old " Capitol, Sept. 26. Anti-renters endorse nomination of John A. Dix for governor, Sept. 28. Common Council committee reports in favor of paying firemen $30 per annum, and a fire chief, to devote his entire time to fire.^, $700 a year as salary, Oct. 2. Nicholas Van Schaack's widow, Jane, dies, Oct. 4. Rev. F. W. Ingmire installed at Pearl street Baptist church, Oct. 8. Steam propeller Hartford, to run in conjunction with the propeller Albany to Hartford, passengers and freight, first arrives, Oct. 14- Geo. C. Treadwell's fur shop and Clement Warren's saw-mill in Water street burn with a loss of $10,000, Oct. 15. Rev. John Bassett's widow, Ann (he was pastor of Ref'd Dutch Church) at Penn Yan, Pa., aged 86, Oct. 17. Under the new regime a train arrives from Buffalo, reducing the record from 24 to 17 hours, Oct. 23. Odd Fellows' Hall, s. w. corner Green and Beaver streets, dedicated with ceremonial, Oct. 26. William Annesley, aged 81, dies, Nov. 3. Rev. B. T. Welch of the ist Pres. Church, called to Pierrepont Street Church in Brooklyn, Nov. 5. Plan to supply the city with water at public expense receives 4,405 votes in its favor and 6 against, Nov. 7. Major Lewis N. Morris' grave in Rural Cemetery marked with a monument, he having fallen at the Battle of Monterey, Nov. 21. No. 46. JOHN TAYLOR. 597 1848-1849. Common Council passes law organizing the fire department, Nov. 27. Firemen hold an indignation meeting in the Capitol, being wrought up over the new fire department organization, Nov. 28. Teunis G. Visscher's widow, Alida, aged 82, dies, Dec. 5. New York's presidential electors meet at Capitol and cast unani- mous vote for Gen. Zachary Taylor for President, Dec. 6. River traffic competition causes reduction of fare to New York to 50 cents by the opposing steamboats, Isaac Newton and Rip Van Winkle, Dec. 7. Death in the Capitol of Dr. John H. Douglass of Troy, who was there on business, Dec. 9. Charles R. Webster's widow, Cynthia (he a foremost publisher and bookseller at n. w. corner of State and Pearl streets) at Albion, N. Y., aged 78, Dec. 22. Rail communication established with New York, the Housatonic railroad opened, promising its passengers to get them through by daylight, or 8 hours from Albany to New York city, Dec. 25. Rev. Rutger Van Brunt installed at Third Ref'd Dutch Church, Dec. 27. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 28. Jane Ann Boyd, daughter of the late Peter Boyd, dies, Dec. 29. General Wool, of Mexican war fame, presented with a sword cost- ing $1,700, the gift of the State, Gov. John Young making the presentation in the Capitol, Dec. 30. Trinity Church, Franklin and Herkimer streets, first used by the South Baptist Society, its purchaser, Dec. 31. Commitments to penitentiary during year, 363; jail, 1,961, Dec. 31. 1849. Hamilton Fish inaugurated Governor of New York, Jan. i. Governor Fish's message transmitted during delivery very success- fully by the new invention called the telegraph, one wire con- veying it to New York city, and another to western part of the State, Jan. 2. Petition to Legislature for power to remove Hallenbake Cemetery from the vicinity of So. Pearl and Hamilton streets, Jan. 5. City real estate valuation, $8,209,957; personal $2,729,881: total, $10,939,838, Jan. I. 59^ JOHN TAYLOR. No. 46. 1849. Rev. Orville Dewey engaged by Unitarian Society, Jan. 7. St. \ incent's Orplian Asylnm fair by Sisters of Charity nets tb.c handsome sum of $3,144.64, Jan. 11. All)any California Company, gold-seekers, afterwards known as the Albany " Forty-niners," sail from New York in the Tarolinta. Jan. 13. Hon. Daniel D. Barnard delivers address on the late Alayor Am- brose Spencer (Chief Justice) at the City Hall, Jan. 15. Trinity Episcopal Churcli on Uroad street (later Trinitv Place) first used for service, and consecrated, Jan. 21. John IJattersby establishes a meat market (which existed until closed in 1905 at n. w. corner of Clinton ave. and No. Pearl St.), January. Rapid travel from Albany to New York, accomplishing the trip by the Housatonic road in 9 hours, leaving New York at 8 a. m., and arriving here at 5 p. m.. Jan. 2=^. At caucus in Assemblv Chamlier Hon. William H. Seward is nomi- nated for U. S. Senator in place of John A. Dix, Feb. i. Ship Robert Browne sails with 20 prospective gold-miners of Albau}', from New York, around tlie " Horn " to California, Feb. 6. Medical library of late Dr. Jonathan Eights sold, Feb. 7. Announcement made by the governor to the Legislature of a gift of many engravings by the best masters from Pope Gregory, in return for a Natural Historv of the State sent to him, Feb. 13. Pair of oxen from Wvoming countv weighing 5,000 lbs. shown, Feb. 15. Tlu-rmometer 11 degrees below zero, Feb. 16. Hog weighing 049 lbs. (dressed) shown b\- Jennings, Careen street, I-eb. 24. Duff's Broadway House, Broadway, near the old depot, where many famous men had stopped, totally destroyed by tire, Feb. 25. Mrs. Leslie, residing corner of I^umber (Livingston ave.) and Water streets, gives birth to four children, March 3. President Zacharv Tavlor's message received l)y telegrai)h, which is considered a great feat, ^larch 5. River open, steamboat Columbia arriving through floating ice, March 17. Slooj) Miriam, under Captain Johnson (colored) makes a record tri]) from New York, covering fully 150 miles in 17 hours, March 21. Bill to establish a hospital here passes the Assembly, March 26. No. 46. JOHN TAYLOR. 599 1849. Jonathan Kidney, Revolutionary soldier, who prevented firing of cannon into a procession in lower part of city because of a difference regarding- ratifying the Constitution, 1788, dies, March 28. First machine " for sewing and stitching " exhibited at the Man- sion House, Broadway, above State street, and causes wonder- ment, March 31. Common Council appropriates $100 for alarm-bell. Little Basin, April 4. Wives of boatmen present an extraordinarily elaborate quilt of their handiwork to Rev. John Miles, pastor of Sailors' Bethel, April 5. Legislature given a banquet at Congress Hall bv the city. April 7. Geo. W. Stanton, president of Exchange JJank, aged 60, dies, April 8. Rensselaer \'an Schellu}'ne, leaving a brother as the last of a line of men distinguislied in city management, dies, April 8. Charter election, at which Friend Humphrey is elected Mayor, re- ceiving 3.142 votes a.s the Whig candidate ; Thomas LIun. ^l. D., receiving 2,925 votes as the Democratic candidate ; total, 6,072 votes; Humphrey's majority being 217 votes he is declared elected INIayor, April 10. • • • (See No. 43.) No. 47. April 16. 1850 — April 14, 1851 No. 47. FRANKLIX TO\\XSEXD. Date of office: April 16. 1850-April 14, 185 1. Date cf election: April 9, 1850. Political party: Whig. Vote: 2i-22(). Opponent: Eli Perry. Political party: ]3emocrat. Vote: 3.217, blank and scattering 10. Total vote: 6,456. Date of birth: September 28, 1821. Place of birth: Xo. 146 State street. Parents: Isaiah (T.) and Hannah Townsend. Edncation: Albany Boys' Academ}-. Married to: Anna Josephine King. Date: January 15, 1852. Children: (2) Riifus King. iM-anklin. Residence: No. 144 State street. Occupation: Iron founder and banker. Religion: Presbyterian. Date of death: September 11, 1898. Place of death: Xo. 4 Elk street. Place of btirial: Albany Rin-al Cemetery. Title: General. Remarks: Adjutant-General. January i, 1869-January i, 1873: lanuary i, 1875-April 7, 1879. Alderman. Assembly. Su- pervisor. President N'ew York State X^ational Bank. Vice- President Albany Savings Bank. 47. FRANKLIN TOWNSEND. 1850-1851. From a photograph made from life by Pirie Macdonald. and owned in 1904 b}- his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Franklin Townsend. No. 47- FRANKLIN TOWNSEND. 603 1850. (Continued from No. 43.) 1850. Gen. Franklin Townsend assumes the office of Mayor, having- been elected at the Charter election held on April 9th,' when he re- ceived 3,229 votes as the Whig candidate, his opponent, Eli Perry, the Democratic candidate, receiving 3,217 votes, blank and scattering 10 votes; total votes cast, 6,456; Frankhn Townsend's majority over Eli Perry, 12 votes, April 16. Charter election. Mayor, Franklin Townsend; Common Council: William L. Osborn, Bernard Lynch, I. Edward Satterlee, Joseph Courtney, II. Garret V. S. Bleecker, Levi Phillips, IIL John D. Hewson, Alden March, IV. Henrv Bleecker, Visscher Ten Eyck, V. James A. Wilson, George Dexter, VI. Henry B. Hewitt, Joseph Clinton, VII. Chauncey Pratt Williams, William B. Scott, VIII. William Gumming, Richard J. Grant! IX. George M. Sayles, Daniel E. Bassett, X. Election, April 9; sworn in, April 16. American Express Co. formed by consolidation of the several small companies doing an express business at this city. Division street the southern end of So. Pearl street now. Albany. Bennington & Rutland Railroad Company organized, elect- ing following directors, all Albanians: Marcus T. Reynolds, John Tayler Cooper, Samuel Pruyn, Charles Van Benthuysen' Frankhn Townsend, James Kidd, Wm. W. Forsyth, James A.' Wilson, John B. James, Wm. V. Many and John L. School- ^.^^^*' April 25. OReilly telegraph poles, surmounted by gilded eagles erected through the city, Xpril 26, Rev. M. Van Waggoner preaches farewell at Universalist Church, Lydia Colhns, wife of Eli Perry (48th mayor), dies, April 28. Marcus^ T. Reynolds elected president of the Albany & Rutland Railroad Company at a meeting of directors, April 30. Van Rensselaer island, just south of the city, under water for the eighth time this spring and greatly damaged, April 30. Recently appointed water commissioners meet to consider an in- creased supply, and name Wm. J. McAlpin to study various projects, Mav i. Ex-Mayor B. P. Staats presides at a meeting in " Old " Capitol at which flogging in the navy is condemned. May 6. Omnibus line starts running from North to South ferry. May 6. Holy Cross (German R. C.) Church corner-stone laid, s.'w. corner 604 FRAXKLIN* TOWXSRND. No. 47. 1850. Hamilton and Phili]) streets, by IJishop McCloskey, Western New York, May 12. Albany City Savings Institution, recentl)- chartered, opens, May 22. Homeopathic Aledical Society of the State of New York formed. Journeymen Printers' L'nion meets at Clinton hotel on So. Pearl street and elects Giles K. Winne president, June i. Steamboat Kosciusko leaves for New York, charging only 6j4 cents for passage, June 12. O'Reilly telegraph line connected with New York, June 25. Horticultural exhibit at Geological Hall shows 50 varieties of straw1)erries, June 26. Independence Day celebrated with processions, William Barnes de- livering the oration and Walter R. Cush reading the Declara- tion, July 4. Grace (Episcopal) Church corner*-stone laid, corner of Washington avenue and Lark street, by Bishop Whittingham, July 8. Gen. Zachary Taylor's death on July ()th announced in this city (born in Orange county, Va., Sept. 24, 1784, 12th President, inaugurated on March 4, 1849), July 10. City draped in mourning, all stores closed, in honor of the funeral of President Zachary Taylor at Washington. July 14. Funeral procession in this city honoring memory of the late Presi- dent Zachary Taylor, July 17. Anshe Emeth synagogue organized by Rabbi Isaac \\"ise. South Pearl and Herkimer streets. Albany Burgesses' Corps returns from an excursion, started nn the 5th, to New York, Providence and Boston, and l3an(|uet at John McCardel's refectory on Beaver street, Aug. 10. City Water Commission purchases Patroon's creek, with sufficient land, for $150,000, including water leases, which paid about $8,000 annually, Aug. 23. Thomas W'. Olcott's wife, Lucia JNIarvin, aged 2^, dies, Aug. 25. City decides to adopt gas instead of oil, Sept. 2. Home for the Friendless established by Mrs. Lee. Holy Innocents' Church consecrated by Bishop Whittingham, Sejit. 3. Frederika IJremer. Swedish authoress, comes to the city, Sept. 3. New York State Fair held at Albany for the second time, the tenth annual exhibition, Ezra P. Prentice of this city, president, at the Bull's Head on the Troy road. Sept. 4. Hon. Daniel D. Barnard a])i)ointed L^. S. ^Minister to Berlin, Sept. 5. State i-air closed, having sold 40,000 admissions, 6,000 vehicles there, net income $10,465.10, Sept. 7. No. 47- FRANKLIN TOWNSEND. 605 1850. Water commissioners award work on projected waterworks sys- tem at West Albany amounting to about $600,000, Sept. 17. Sanders Lansing prominent in Revolutionarv sceiies, and a brother of Chancellor John Lansing, county judge and register of the court of chancery, dies at Manheim. aged 85, Sept. ig. James Kidd appointed postmaster to succeed Lewis Benedict, Sept. 28. Contract closed for construction of the Albany & Rutland railroad, conditioned on the work being completed in one year, Oct. i. Steamboat Reindeer built by Thomas Collyer, 260 feet long, 34 feet broad, 9 feet deep, 56 x 144 in. engine. State Library building being erected on north side of State street, opposite High street. Colored citizens meet in the City Hall to discuss the " fugitive slave " law, Oct. 3. Eagle Tavern site built upon by Air. Delavan, for stores, east side of Broadway, from Llamilton street southward, Oct. 8. Benjamin R. Spelman elected captain of the Burgesses, Oct. 8. East Albany freight traffic increased to 250 cars loaded daily, Oct. 12. Matthew Trotter, after whom Trotter's Alley named (Broadway to the river, south of Hudson avenue) dies at sea returning from France, Oct. 17. Greenbush horse-boat, in tow of ferry, sinks, and four horses are drowned, Oct. 29. House's Telegraph Line, the third, begins working, Oct. 31. Albany & Mohawk plank road completion celebrated, Nov. 9. James H. Armsby, jNF. D., elected president Albany County Medical Society. Nov. 14. Hon. Erastus Corning, first president of the Utica & Schenectady Railroad Co., voted a silver service, having long given freely his valuable services, Nov. 19. Scho-negh-ta-da Lodge, No. 87, L O. O. F., instituted, Dec. i. Mount Carmel Lodge, No. j(), \. O. O. F., instituted, Dec. i. New York State Bank's building, on reorganizing under new charter to be issued in January, sold at auction for $19,000, Dec. 4. Thornas McCredie's wife, Helen, daughter of Robert Dunlop, dies, Dec. 6. Reuben Dunbar, having been on trial for two weeks, is convicted of the mysterious and brutal murder of two Lester boys in the woods at Westerlo, on Sept. 28th, Dec. 10. Rev. Ray Palmer installed pastor First Congregational Church, Dec. 10. 6o6 FRANKLIN TOWNSEND. No. 47. 1850-1851. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 17. New York State Bank's original charter expires, t)ec. 31. riiermometer 15 degrees below zero, Dec. 31. 1851. Washington Hunt inaugurated Governor of New York, Jan. i. New York State Bank, with new charter, reorganizes with capital of $350,000, as the New York State National Bank, Jan. i. Cathedral of Immaculate Conception fair, to aid building fund, nets $7,600, closed, Jan. 4. First Baptist Church holds last service at its Green street building, which it sells to the People's Church, newly organized under Rev. Geo. Montgomery West, Jan. 5. Reuben Dunbar, for killing the two Lester boys in the Westerlo woods on Sept. 28th, is executed in the jail, Jan. 31. Dr. James P. Boyd's residence, n. e. corner of Hudson avenue and Grand street, burned with loss of $6,000, Jan. 31. Several railroad lines extending across the State combine as the New York Central road. Albany Weekly Express appears, issued by Stone & Henly, Feb. i. Freshet carries away 200 feet of the Government embankment ex- tending to the island opposite North Albany from mainland, Feb. 12. Albany & Northern Railroad Co. incorporated for purpose of con- structing a road to Eagle Bridge, Feb. 20. William Allen, a Revolutionary soldier, aged 94, dies, Feb. 23. River open to navigation, Oregon arriving, Feb. 25. John C. Feltman, born at Osnaburgh, Hanover, Germany, Oct. 8, 1775, and emigrated here in 1806, a prominent citizen, dies, March i. Common Council decides to increase the Mayor's salary to $1,000, beginning with the next incumbent, Feb. 3. Anti-renters convene at Beardsley's hotel to revive party. March 19. Regular police department established by Laws of 1851. City divided into four police precincts. Eli Perry elected Mayor of Albany at the Charter election, receiv- ing 3,542 votes as the Democratic candidate ; Franklin Town- send receiving 3,176 votes as the Whig candidate; blank and scattering, 14 votes ; total votes cast, 6,732 ; Perry's majority over F. Townsend, 366 votes, and Eli Perry is declared mayor- elect, April 8. No. 48. April 15, 1851— Jan. 12, 1852. Jan. 13, 1852— Jan. 9, 1854. May 6, 1856 -May 3, 1858. May 4, 1858 — April 30. 18e>0. May 6, 1862 — May 2, 1864. May 3, 1864— April 30. 1866 No. 48. ELI PERRY. Date of office: (a) April 15, 1851-Januarv 12, 1852. (b) JaniiarA' 13, 1852-Januarv 9, 1854. (c) May 6,' 1856-May 3. 1858. (d) May 4, 1858-April 30, i860. (e) May 6, 1862-May 2, 1864. (f) May 3. 1864-April 30. 1866. Date of election: (a) April 8, 1851. (b) November 4, 1851. (c) April 8, 1856. (d) April 13, 1858. (e) April 8, 1862. (f) April 12, 1864. Political party: Democrat. Vote: (a) 3,542. (b) 4,022. (c) 2.990. (d) 4,702. (e) 5A35- (f) 5.375- Opponent: (a) Franklin Townsend. (b) Thomas McMullen. (c) John \'. P. Quackenbush, ( cc ) X'isscher Ten Eyck. (d) Dr. John Quackenbush. (e) George W. Luther. (f) Gen. John F. Rathbone. Political Party: (a) Whig. (b) Whig. (c) Republican. (d) Republican. (e) Republican. ( f ) Republican. Vote: (a) 3,176, blank and scattering 14. (b) 3,050, blank and scattering 22. (c) 2,1^2, (cc) 1,100, blank and scattering 14. (d) 4,601, blank and scattering 26. (e) 3,146, blank and scattering 40. (f ) 3,462. blank and scattering 42. Total rote: (a) 6,732. (b) 7,094. (c) 6,276. (d) 9'329- (e) 8,821. (f) 8,879. Date of birth: December 25, 1799. Place of birth: Washing-ton county, N. Y. Parents: John (P.) and Jeannie Searles. Ediieatioii: Country schools. Married to: (a) Ehzabeth Clark. (b) Lydia Collins. (c) Matilda Caroline Todd. Date: (a) (b) (c) New York, June 22, 1853. Cliildren: (a-4) Oliver Hazard, (3 dau. d. v.). (b-i d. y.) (c) None. Residence: No. 85 Washint^ton avenue. Occupation: Live stock and provisions. Religion: Baptist. Date of death: May 17, 1881. Place of death: No. 85 Washington avenue. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Alderman, April 2, 1845. Assembly (fourth district) 1850-51. Contracted to supply provisions in Civil War and fulfilled, althoug^h he lost his fortune in so doing, by raise in prices. Offered Congress Park for State Capitol site, Febru- ary 23, 1865. Livingston avenue railroad bridge opened Feb- ruary 22, 1866: 21 piers, 4,253 feet. Secured $350,000 for new Federal building, February 13. 1872. Congressman, 1870-72. Presidential elector, 1876. School Commissioner. President Board of Trustees Pearl Street Baptist Church. Member of blasters Lodge, No. 5, F. and A. M. ; Temple Commandery, No. 5, R. A. M. ; Albany Burgesses Corps ; life member of Albany Jackson Corps. Organized personally 43d Regiment. Organized Albany Orphan Asylum. School No. 13 completed 1859. built in 1779, State Arsenal until 1859. 48. ELI PERRY. 1S51-54; 1856-60; 1862-66. From an oil painting made from life and owned' in 1904 by The Albany Institute. No. 48. ELI PERRY. 611 1851. (Continued from No. 47.) 1851. Eli Perry sworn as the Mayor of Albany, havint;- been chosen at the Charter election held on April 8th, when he received 3,542 votes as the Democratic candidate ; his opponent. Gen. Frank- lin Townsend, receiving 3,176 votes as the Whig candidate; blank and scattering, 14 votes ; total number of votes cast. 6,732 ; Perry's majority over Townsend being 366 votes he was declared chosen mayor of Albany, April 15. Charter election, Mayor, Eli Perry ; Common Council : Bernard Lynch, Thomas Leonard, L Joseph Courtney, William P. Mal- burn, IL Levi Phillips, Garret \\ S. Bleecker, IIP Alden March, Jacob Hendrickson, lY. \'isscher Ten Eyck, Alfred Van Santvoord, \'. Oorge Dexter, William Eggleston, VL Joseph Clinton, John J. Jarvis, ATI. William B. Scott, Elias Vanderlip, VTIL Richard J. Grant, James D. Wasson, IN. Daniel E. Bassett, George M. Sayles, N. Election, April 8; sworn in, April 15. Twelve Democratic senators resign refusing to sanction the bor- rowing of $9,000,000 for enlargement of the Erie canal, and Legislature adjourns, April 17. Large Democratic meeting in the Capitol because of the Erie canal discussion and sudden adjournment of the Legislature, April 18. Albany & Susquehanna railroad incorporated, April 19. Water mains in the city at this time measure 29 8/10 miles, April 20. Albany Law School organized. Chief Justice Greene C. Bronson, Pres't, April 21. Great meeting of Whigs in the Capitol to denounce action of the Democrats in attacking the constitutionality of law planning enlargement of the Erie canal, April 23. Bleecker reservoir, west of Ontario street, being constructed, April 25. Frederick W. Ridgway, prominent citizen, aged 34, dies. May 2. Thomas Hurst falls from railroad bridge over Patroon's creek, aged 55, and dies. May 3. Steamboat New World, trip in 7 hrs., 43 mins., commissioned. May. 6l2 ELI PERRY. . No. 48. 1851, President Millard Mllmore arrives at 3 p. m. from the West and is taken about the city, escorted by military bodies, amid great enthusiasm, and is escorted to the night boat at 7 p. m., May 22 Steamboat Reindeer makes record trip in 7 hrs. 44 mins., ^lay 31 N. Y. Central railroad leases Troy & Greenbush railroad, J'-ine i Weekly Knickerbocker commenced by Hugh J. Hastings, June 8 Legislature meets in extra session, June 10 Patroon's creek being dammed six miles west of the city to form Rensselaer lake, also known as the Tivoli lakes, the Upper and Lower, covering an area of 40 acres, capacity of 200,000 gallons, William J. Mc Alpine, engineer, J«ne 15. Legislature passes a bill for the erection of a fireproof building on State street, opposite High street, west of the Capitol, June 18. Strike of laborers at work on constructing waterworks, contractors agreeing to pay 87^2 cents for 10 hours, or $1 for 12 hours, June 2}^. Demolition of No. Pearl street ]\Iethodist Church, originally a circus, begun, June 24. Independence Day celebrated, oration by S. H. Hammond, Dudley Farlin the reader, and poem by William H. Green, July 4. Jenny Lind gives her first vocal concert here as the greatest living singer, at Third Presbyterian Church, July y. Ojibway Indians make encampment on shore across river, July 10. Legislative extra session adjourns. July 11. Jenny Lind gives second concert in Third Presbyterian Church. July II. Albany Plospital board of governors organizes, choosing John C. Spencer president, and naming a committee to procure build- ing, July 14. Albany Academy students present Rev. Dr. William H. Campbell, principal, on retiring, with a gold watch ; George H. Cook- elected (4th) principal in his stead, July 15. Steamboat Trojan, own.ed here, burns at New York city dock, Aug. 7. Jennv Lind arrives on steamboat Reindeer and takes rooms at Congress Hall, Aug 8. American Association for Advancement of Science meets in hall of Albany Institute in the Albany Academy, ^ug. 18. Ground broken for State Lil)rary building, rear of Capitol, Aug. 24. STATE LIBRARY OF 1851. Established by Act of Apr. 21, 1818, and opened in old Capitol (1808), John Cook, Librarian, in July ; bill for a building passed June 18, 1851 ; ground broken, Aug. 24, 1851 ; erected on north side State St., adjoining rear of old Capitol, two stories, 45 x 114 ft., of brownstone ; removal authorized July 19, 1883, and books placed in new Capitol in September, occupying western end 25 years. No. 48. ELI PERRY. 613 1851. Excavating- for water-pipes at foot of State street, two graves of the old Dutch Church opened and bodies exhumed, Aug. 28. Albany Daily Eagle first issued by John Sharts, editor, Sept. i. Central railroad starts excavations for Maiden Lane bridge, Sept. 9. Father Matthew, Apostle of Temperance, arrives from Utica, Sept. 12. Jews having inirchased the So. Pearl Street P.aptist Church, at the head of Herkimer street. Rev. Mr. Howard preaches parting sermon, Sept. 28. Bishop McCloskey of tlie Roman Catholic diocese. preacUes parting sermon, receives a gift of $1,500 and leaves for Europe, Sept. 29. First train on the Hudson River railroad arrives from New York, Oct. I. Jews consecrate the former So. Pearl Street Baptist Church at the head of Herkimer street as the Anshe Emeth Svnagogue. Oct. 3. Mrs. Blandina increases contribution to erect the Dudley Observ- atory to $13,000 and Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer donates the hill at North Albany, to the west of his Manor House estate, October. Great celebration of Hudson River railroad, 1,100 sitting down to dinner here, a train coming from New York on the new road in 3 124 hours running time, Oct. 8. City Temperance Society organized, Hon. Bradford R. Wood, presi- dent, ' ' Oct. 14. Water let in the new aqueduct at Rensselaer lake at 9:19 a. m., reaching the weir at head of Washington street at 11 :3i a. m., Oct. 24. Methodists occupy building erected on site of the old circus on No. Pearl street, near Clinton avenue, Oct. 26. Albany City Hospital dedicated at the corner of Dove street and Lydius street. (Madison avenue) addresses by President John C. Spencer of the board of governors, followed by remarks by Rev. Dr. Potter and prayer by Rev. Dr. Pohlman, Nov. i. William J. McAlpine of this city elected State engineer and sur- veyor, Nov. 4. Eli Perry re-elected the Mayor of Albany at the Charter election, receiving 4,022 votes as the Democratic candidate ; his op- ponent, Thomas McMullen, receiving 3,050 votes as the Whig candidate; blank and scattering. 22 votes; total number of votes cast, 7,094; Perry's majority over McMullen being 972 votes he is declared elected IMayor of Albany, Nov. 4. 6 14 ELI PERRY. No. 48. 1851-1852. Holy Cross Church, organized by German Cathohcs, dedicated at the s. w. corner of Hamilton and Philip streets, by Very Rev. . John Conroy, cost, $9,000, Nov. 23. Young- Men's Association enters new rooms in the recently erected Commercial Bank building- on south side of State street, Dec. 10. River closed to navigation, official record, Dec. 14. Robert Dunlop, eminent merchant of this city who had acquired a fortune, dies at his home in Watervliet, aged 75 years, having come here from Scotland in 1806, Dec. 15. Law Department of the University of Albany opens, Ji-iclg-e Amasa J. Parker delivering a course of lectures in the Y. M. A. rooms in the new Commercial Bank building, Dec. 17. William L. Marcy presides at a meeting in the Capitol before the friends of Louis Kossuth and Hungarian freedom, Dec. 19. Margaret Whetten widow of the late Captain Stewart Dean, the navigator of this city after whom the street was named, aged 95 years, dies in New York city, Dec. 21. Canal commissioners award large contracts for enlarging the Erie canal, Dec. 30. 1852. Rain causing high water, the ice sweeps down, bearing past the city a canal-boat with woman and child aboard, who cannot be rescued because of the swift current and water filled with huge cakes of ice; but at Castleton they are rescued, Jan. i. Rev. W. W. Moore begins pastorate of South Baptist Church, corner of Herkimer and Franklin streets, Jan. 4. The fair held for the benefit of the new Orphan Asylum at Bleecker Hall, No. 527 Broadway, nets v$3,249, Jan. 7. New North Methodist Church, erected on site of the old No. Pearl street circus, dedicated. Jan. it. • • * Hon. Eli Perry is sworn a second time as the Mayor of Albany, at his home because of sickness, having been chosen at the Charter election held on Nov. 4, 185 1, when his majority as the Democratic candidate, over Thomas McMullen, the Whig candidate was 972 votes, Jan. 12. Charter election. Mayor, Eli Perry ; Common Council : Thomas Leonard, John McEvoy, L Wiilliam P. Malburn, Richard Godley, IL Garret V. S. Bleecker, John A. Sickles, HL Jacob Hendrickson. Charles Gay, IV. Alfred Van Santvoord, N0..48. ELI PERRY. 615 1852. Visscher Ten Eyck, V. William Eggleston, George Dexter, VI. John J. Jarvis. Thomas Higgins, MI. Elias Vanderlip, Richard Stafford, VIII. James D. Wasson, Thomas W. Valen- tine, IX. George M. Sayles, Philip Fredcnrich, X. Election, Nov. 4, 1851 ; sworn in. Jan. 13. The first train on the Harlem Railroad, invited guests aboard, comes through to Albany and all dine at Congress Hall, Jan. 19. The Police Department succeeds the constabulary system. Third Police Precinct occupying building on Jackson street. Fourth Police Precinct station located n. w. Lancaster and Dove. Enormous procession of Temperance societies marches to the Cap- itol, but not all can be accommodated and some proceed else- where, Jan. 28. John Gott, born in \'ermont in 1786, removed to this city in 1799, and engaged in tobacco business, described as " a fine old gentle- man," aged 68 years, dies, Feb. 2. Sylvanus J. Penniman, coming here from Lansingburg in 1823 and opening the drug house that was bought out by J. and Archibald JMcClure in 1832, which firm continued it under similiar name (McClure & Co.) for half a century, aged 71 dies, Feb. 7 William Gould's ( law-book seller) wife, i\Iary, aged 75 years, dies Feb. 7 A posse of 22 policemen visit the scene of the anti-renters in the Helderbergs. where Mr. Fish had been tarred and feathered, returning with two prisoners, after being attacked with weap- ons, Feb. 23. The Bethlehem Washington Guards, attacked while on parade by a mob of young rufifians, necessitating the visit of police, March 6. Albany City Hospital's board of governors purchase the old jail at s. e. corner of Eagle and Ploward streets for purpose of con- verting it into a hospital, ' March 20 River open to navigation, official record, March 28 Hugh Denniston, prominent citizen, dies aged 57 years, March 30 Legislature adjourns after a session continuing through 24 hours April 13 After a session of 102 days the Legislature adjourns, April 17 Foundations of the First Baptist Church, (Hudson ave., Philip and Plain streets) commenced, April 20. Mount Moriah Lodge (Ancient City) No. 143, instituted. Gen. Solomon Van Rensselaer, a distinguished fighter and leader at the battle of Queenstown on Oct. 13, 1812, congressman, 6l6 ELI PERRY. No. 48. 1852. son of Gen. Henry K. A'an Rensselaer, (b. Greenbush, in the old Cienet ?kIansion) aged ']'], dies at his Cherry Hill mansion south of the city, April 23. Funeral of Gen. .Solomon Van Rensselaer attended by military honors, April 26. Louis Kossuth, the Hungarian exile of note, arrives by eastern train, is received by military bodies and escorted to Congress Hall (hotel) where he is addressed by Gov. Washington Hunt, May 18. Louis Kossuth makes an address at Third Presbyterian Church, May. 20. Kossuth leaves by railroad for Niagara, having received a fund of $2,000 here to aid the Hungarians. ]\Iay 21. Lots sold north of AJadison avenue for opening Steamboat Square, May 27. IMeeting of the trustees of the proposed Dudley Observatory, Thomas W. Olcott chosen president, plans of Mr. Downing examined and a building committee named. May 28. Louis Kossuth, on second visit to the city, addresses a large audi- ence at Association Hall, stating that he was through traveling in this country, Rabbi Wise opening the exercises. June 5. Kossuth departs for New York aboard steamboat Alida, June 7. New express train starts running to Buffalo, making the trip in the fast time of 14 hours, June 14. New Steamboat, Francis Skiddy, built by George Collyer, 1,235 tons, 322 feet long, 38 feet broad, 11 feet deep, 71 x 168 in. engine, arrives for first time, making trip in 7 hrs., 24 minutes, record, June 21. Nail works of Erastus Corning, below Troy, burn with a loss of $50,000, June 27. The Freie Blaetter, a German newspaper, Aug. Miggael editor, No. 44 Beaver street, established. New steamboat Francis Skiddy makes record trip from New York, 6 hrs., 55i/> mins., deducting landings, June 30. James Stevenson, former mayor, lawyer, estimable citizen and ever working assiduously to advance the city's interests, a member of a number of large business interests, aged 65 years, dies, July 3- Independence Day celebrated, J. L Werner the orator, July 4. Remains of Hon. Henry Clay arrive at night and are escorted by a torchlight procession to the City Hall by military companies, July 5. Green Street theatre opened after being used by the Baptists as a church for 40 years, July 5. No. 4^. ELI PERRY. 617 1852. Remains of Henry Clay escorted to the railroad station by the Ihirgesses' corps, who accompany them to Syracnse, July 6. A. AlcClure's large paint and drug-store on State street consumed by fire resulting from alcohol, July 23. Steamboat Henry Clay burned on its way to New York and nearly one hundred lives lost, July 28. New York & Erie railroad completed. First public procession of the Turn-Verein and Sing-Verein, Aug. 16. Ferry-boat capsizes and 20 of 25 passengers drown, Aug. 22. Steamboat Reindeer bursts a flue at Bristol (40 miles south of this city) and seven persons are killed, Sept. 4. City authorities take possession of the South Ferry, Sept. 7. Copper kettle of Taylor & Son's brewery, containing 200 barrels of beer, falls, doing great damage, Sept. 10. Akin & Schuyler take ferry rights, paying city $2,200 annually, Sept. 29. Steamboat Mary Powell first in commission. Sacred Heart convent or academy opened in Westerlo building on So. Pearl street, with 30 scholars. Normal School elects Samuel B. Woolworth its (3rd) principal, succeeding George R. Perkins who came into that office in 1848. Gen. Winfield Scott arrives here and is escorted to the Capitol by military bodies, where he is addressed by Judge John C. Spencer, Oct. 16. General Scott departs for New York, Oct. 18. Gen. Chauncey Humphrev, former prominent citizen, dies at Aliddlebury, Vt., ' Oct. 18. Albany City Volunteers organize, John Arts captain, Oct. 21. Citizens assemble at the City Hall to express resolutions on the death of Daniel Webster, Oct. 26. On Mayor Perry's recommendation, citizens close all places of business out of respect to Daniel Webster, at noon, during his funeral at Marshfield, Oct. 29. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception dedicated by Archbishop Flughes, in presence and assisted by another archbishop, 5 bishops and 50 priests, with an audience of 4,000 persons, Nov. 21. Rev. A. A. Thayer installed at Universalist Church, Dec. i. City Volunteers, under Capt. John Arts, makes first appearance, Dec. 9. John Taylor's malt-house partly destroyed, loss $15,000, Dec. 10. Grace Episcopal Church dedicated by Bishop Vv^ainwright, Dec. 14. 6l8 ELI PRRRY. No. 48. 1852-1853. The steamboat TIendrik Hudson frozen in while going" to New York, Dec. 22. River closed to navigation, official record, Dec. 23. New edifice of First Baptist Society, Hudson ave.. Plain and Philip sts. first opened for service, Dec. 26. Steamboat Isaac Newton, having been sheathed with iron, forces her way to Coeymans, and liberating the Hendrik Hudson, brings that steamer to this city, Dec. 29. 1853. Horatio Seymour inaugurated Governor of New York, Jan. i. " Country Gentleman " assumed as name of L. Tucker's farm journal, Jan. i. Charter officials, Mayor, W^illiam Parmelee ; Common Council : John McEvoy, Stejjhen Harris, I. Richard Godley, Ebenezer G. Chesebro, H. John A. Sickles, Gerrit V. S. Bleecker, HL Charles Gay, John McBride Davidson, IV. Visscher Ten Eyck, Richard D. Van Rensselaer, V. George Dexter, Henry Russell, VI. Thomas Higgins, George Vanderlip, VII. Richard Stafford, Patrick M. McCall, VIII. Thomas W. Valentine, David H. Gary, IN. Philip Frederich, Theodore Townsend, X. In office on, Jan. i. Legislature convenes, Jan. 4. In row at Green Street theatre policeman stabbed by bayonet in hands of one of a dozen who had forced entrance to take possession for JMr. Preston, Ian. 11. Anna Maria Saltus, wife of Lansing Pruyn, dies, Jan. 29. L. R. Brock appointed keeper of almshouse, vice Ilalliday, Jan. 31. Evening Transcript first published by Cuyler & Henly, the seventh city paper at this time, Feb. i. Survivors of campaign of 181 2 arrive from New York and are joined here by tliirty-cight Albany conu-ades who parade under Col. Haight, escorted by Republican Artillery, Feb. 3 Survivors of 1812, one hundred in number, joined by thirtv-eight of Albany, addressed by Gov. Seymour at Capitol, Feb. 4. Green Street theatre sold for $6,975 under sheriff's hammer. Feb. 8. Mr. Forsyth presents petition to Legislature for establishment of a House of Refuge at Albany, Feb. 18. Bill to consolidate the various railroad lines between Albany and Buffalo passed by Assembly, March 2Ty. River open to navigation, official record, March 23, No. 48. ELI PERRY. 619 1853. Last rail of the Northern Railroad connecting" Albany and Cohoes, laid, March 24. Green Street theatre opened by Edmund S. Connor, March 28. Bank of the Capitol goes into operation, April i. New York Central Railroad organized on plans by Edwin Dean Worcester of this city. April 2. Experimental trip on the Albany Northern Railroad as far as Cohoes, April g. Albany Northern Railroad commences regular trips to Cohoes, April II. Legislature adjourns, April 13. Meeting held to organize Albany County Agricultural Society, April 14. Mary, wife of Daniel Boughton, dies, April 19. Dr. Lewis C. Beck, aged 55, chemistry professor in Medical College and engaged in scientific enterprises, dies, April 20. Albany Northern Railroad open to Waterford. May 7. Capt. John Bogart, aged 92, in command of a vessel transporting officers on the Hudson in 1776. dies, May 22. Prisoners in the jail, s. e. cor. Eagle and Howard streets, removed to the new lockup on north side of Alaiden Lane, east of City Hall, June 2. Members of Legislature accept trip on the Consolidated Railroad to Niagara Falls, June 4. Legislative train returns from Niagara in 7 hrs. 44 min., June 6. Last rail laid on Albany Northern Railroad connecting at Eagle Bridge with the \ ermont road. June 29. First locomotive passes over Albany Northern from Eagle Bridge. June ^o. Boiler of steamboat New World explodes, killing four, July i. Directors of the consolidating railroad to Buffalo elect first officers, Erastus Corning, Pres., J. A\ L. Pruyn, Sec. and Treas., J"iy 7 New York Central railroad and the Hudson River railroad consoli- date under plan of Edwin Dean Worcester of this city, Aug. i. Deaths by heat during the week number 28, Aug. 13. First passenger train on Northern Railroad comes through from Eagle Bridge, Aug. 16. Woman weighing 764 pounds and her daughter, aged 15 years, weighing 340 pounds, shown at Bleecker Hall, No. 527 Broad- way, Aug. 17. Worth Guards on an excursion to Coxsackie attacked by ruffians who had come along, and villagers drive the boat away, Aug. 22. 620 ELI PERRY. No. 48. 1853, 1856. John Morgan, chief of poHce since organization of present force, resigns, Sept. 4. Gronnd broken for the .Vh)any & Snsqnehainia raih-oad, Sept. 5. First of tlie enlarged Erie canal boats arrives, with .3,720 Imshels of wheat, Sept. lo. Albany forwards $1,535.25 to New (Orleans yellow fever snfferers, Sept. 20. Albany Academy elects Rev. Wm. A. Miller. D.D., its (5th) presi- dent. Edmund Marcy. aged 22, youngest son of Gov. W. L. Marcy, dies at sea on July 5th and is buried from father's house on State street. Sept. 2C). County Fair held on Troy Road, receipts $2,000, Oct. 6. Miss Catherine Springsteed award a silver cup at Countv Fair here for equestrianism. Oct. 7. Green Island village incorporated. Oct. 14. Rev. \Vm. Ingraliam Kip of St. Paul's Church (rector and author) appointed missionary bishop to California, Oct. 22. First train of cars comes down from Rutland over the Albany Northern Railroad Co.'s line. Nov. 5. William Parmelee chosen the Mavor a thirfl time at the Charter election, receiving 3,073 votes as the \\niig candidate; his op- Donent. Eli Perry, receiving 2.692 votes as the Democratic candidate; Chauncey Pratt Williams receiving 1,165 votes; William Eggleston receiving 6 votes ; blank and scattering, 36 votes; total number of votes cast, 6,972; Parmelee's majority over Perry being 381 votes, he is declared elected the Mayor of Albany, Nov. 8. River closed to navigation, ofhcial record, Dec. it. • ^ • rSee No. sr^A r Continued froiu No. 56.) 1856. Hon. Eli Perry is sworn as the MaA'or of Albany a third time, having been chosen to succeed l\Iayor William Parmelee at the Charter election held on April 8th, when he received 2,990 votes as the Democratic candidate ; his opponent, John V. P. Ouackenbush, receiving 2.172 votes as the Rcpuljlican candi- date; Visscher Ten Evck receiving 1,100 votes; blank and No. 4^. ELI PERRY. 621 1856. scattering, 14 votes; total number of votes cast, 6.276; Perry's majority being; 818 votes, he was declared chosen the flavor of Albany, Alay 6. Charter election, Mayor, Eli Perry ; Common Council : Cornelius ]\IcCloskey, Michael Cassidy, I. George !>. Johnson. Thomas S. Knight, II. George A. H. Englehart, John Hurdis, III. Erastus H. Pease, Richard Merrifield, IV. Richard Van Rens- selaer, Joseph C. Y. Paige, V. Henry Russell, Henry Lansing, VI. John Benson, Thomas Kearney, \TI. Hiram Gilbert, James Jones, VIII. Henry J. Wells, Henry Crandall. IX. Andrew M. Bullock, Robert Harper, X. Election, .Vpril 8; sworn in, ]\Iay 6. The 76th Regiment organized by Col. Frederick Townsend. Funeral of Cyrus Edson, killed with two others, by explosion on the 15th at his distillery at lower end of Broadway, jNIay 18. Corner-stone of St. Joseph's Church laid, June i. Workmen tear down the old City hotel, June 16. The old Yates Alansion on Broad street sold to Thomas W. Olcott for use of the principal of the Female Academy, $16,000, June IQ. Albany Bridge Co. stock subscribed for $500,000 in few hour:;, June 25. The 25th Regiment erecting a high flagstaff at Steamboat Square, General Frisby raises the national flag while a salute of 13 guns is fired, Julv 2. Common Council changes name of Patroon street to Clinton ave., July 7. John I. Boyd, a founder of St. Andrew's Society, aged 76, dies, July 12. Archibald Campbell, proiuinent citizen, born at Glenlyon, Scotland, in 1779, ^^^^^ coming here in 1798, a founder of St. Andrew's Society, aged yy years, dies, July 14. One of the earliest torchlight parades for a political candidate, transparencies and Roman candles, ratifying the nomination of Millard Fillmore for President, Aug. 14. American Society for the Advancement of Science meets in the Capitol, Aug. 20. Total amount raised for the Dudley Observatory, $98,850, Aug. 21. Robert M. K. Strong, one of the brightest in the legal profession, aged 44 years, dies, Aug. 24. State Geological Hall opened by the famous Louis Agassiz and the American Scientific Association, Aug. 27. 622 ELI PERRV. No. 48. 1856. Co. B of the loth Battalion joins State militia, attached to 76tli Reg't, Aug. 28. Imposing" and enthusiastic ceremonies at the dedication of the Dudley Observatory, exercises held in an immense canvas tent erected in the Academy Park, ex-Governor Washington Hunt speaking a forceful eulogy of the late Mayor Charles E. Dud- ley, after whom it is named, and then the youthful astronomer, Benjamin Apthorp Goold speaks, followed by Prof. Bache. At this point Judge Harris reads a letter from Mrs. Blandina Dudley, his widow, offering the additional sum of $50,000, which news is received with uproarious applause. Edward Everett of Boston tlien delivers an oration in polished phrasing, and at its close the assemblage calls for Mrs. Dudley, who rises and bows, while shedding tears of deep emotion, overcome by the compliment, Aug. 28. Albany Academy elects David Murray, Ph.D., its (6th) president. Albany Evening Union first published by James ^lacfarlane, Sept. 8. Albany Exchange Bank incorporated. City Tract and Missionary Society incorporated. Westerlo Mansion on Pearl street sold at auction, $17,000, Sept. 18, Hudson River Bridge Co. organizing elects Erastus Corning presi- dent, Sept. 24. Fire destroys the Argentina works of Smith & Co., Kenwood, $50,000, Oct. 2. Albany Rural Cemetery appoints James W. Green (3rd) superin- tendent. Steamboat America sunk by collision with a sloop, Nov. i. Albany County Medical Society celebrates semi-centennial, Dr. U. G. Bigelow presiding, and Dr. S. D. Willard reading a history, Nov. II. Maria Banyar, widow of Goldsborough Bandar and daughter of John Jay, aged 75, dies in New York city, Nov. 21. Children's Friendly Society organized, November. Mansion House on west side of Broadway north of State street, sold at auction and bought for $60,000 by A'an Heusen & Charles, Nov. 22, Two immense stones, weighing 10 tons each, arrive for the Dudley Observatory from Kingston, Nov. 25. River closed to navigation, official record. Dec. 14. Samuel Pruyn re]:)orts the Penitentiary earnings for year as $3,178.04, bee. 19. DUDLEY OBSERVATORY— OLD. Erected on a N. Albany hill given by Gen. S. Van Rensselaer, and named in honor of late Mayor Chas. E. Dudley. His widow (Blandina, died Mch. 6, 1863) gave $13,000 on Oct. I, 1851, and $50,000 in 1856. Organized, T. W. Olcott, Pres't, May 28, 1852 ; dedi- cation ceremony in Academy Park, Edward Everett, Orator, Aug. 28, 1856 ; abandoned (for new) 1893 : burned May 16, 1904. No. 48. ELI PERRY. 623. 1857. 1857. John A. King- escorted from Congress Hall by Albany Burgesses' Corps, to the Capitol, where he is inaugurated Governor, Jan. I. Charter officials holding office for this year: Mayor, Eli Perry; Common Council: Alichael Cassidy, Owen Golden, I. Thomas S. AIcKnight, Thomas B. Morrow, II. John Hurdis, Samuel W. Gibbs, III. Richard Merrifield, John D. Serviss, IV. Joseph C. Y. Paige, John Winne, V. Henry Lansing, James B. Sanders, VII. Thomas Kearney, John Benson, VII. James Jones, Charles Snowden, VIII. Henry Crandall, Richard Bar- hydt, IX. Robert Harper, Isaac Vanderpoel, X. In office on, Jan. I. Folsom's Business College established by H. B. Bryant and II. D. Stratton. State Medical Society celebrates semi-centennial with banquet at the Delavan House, Feb. 4. Clinton Cassidy elected president of the Y. ^I. A., Feb. 5. ^^^ater so high that it enters stores on west side of Broadway, Feb. 9. Subscriptions to flood sufferers here reach $5,100, Feb. 12. Convention of abolitionists at the Young Men's Association rooms, Wm. H. Topp, a colored man presiding, and Miss Susan B. Anthony speaking with great earnestness, (she died in 1906), Feb. 20. Capt. Barnum Whipple, who projected the series of dykes and sought to overcome the Overslaugh, (buried here), 60 years a resident, dies at Staten Island, aged JJ years, Feb. 28. River open to navigation, official record, March 18. Y. M. C. A. (No. 124 State st.) organized, March 23 Henry II. A'an Dvke appointed (the 2nd) State superintendent of public instruction, April 7. Albany Morning Express established by Stone & Henly, May 4. Pioneer Rowing Club, the first in the city, founded. Ex-Gov. William L. ]\[arcy. for 40 years a resident of the city, born in Worcester county, ]Mass.. Dec. 12, 1786, graduate of Brown Universitv in 1808, studied law at Troy, served with ability in War of 1812, appointed recorder of Troy in 1816, moved to Albany in 1821, made judge of supreme court in 1829, elected to U. S. Senate in 1831, elected Governor in 1832, and served six years, in 181.5 made secretary of war by Presi- 624 ELI PERRY. No. 48. 1857-1858. dent Polk, made secretary of state by President Pierce, dies at Ballston of heart trouble, aged 71 years, July 4. Ex-Gov. Wm. L. Marcy's funeral, 27 military companies, July 8. Albany & Vermont railroad chartered, Oct. 17. Lyman Tremain of this city elected State attorney-general, Nov. 3. John Keyes Paige (ex-mayor) dies at Schenectady, Dec. 10. -Beck Literary Society of Albany Academy founded, Dec. 11. River closes to navigation, Government record, Dec. 27. 1858. State Museum collection placed in Agricultural Hall, s. \v. corner State and Lodge streets. River open to navigation, official record, March 20. Hon. Eli Perry elected the Mayor of Albany a fourth time, at the Charter election, receiving 4,702 votes as the Democratic candi- date ; his opponent. Dr. John Quackenbush receiving 4,601 votes as the Republican candidate ; blank and scattering, 26 votes; total number of votes cast, 9,329; Perry's majority over Quackenbush being loi votes, he is declared elected the Mayor of Albany, April 13. State Armory site, s. w. cor. Eagle and Hudson ave. bought, April 17. • • • Hon. Eli Perry is sworn as the Mayor of Albany, having been chosen such at the Charter election held on April I3tli, when his majority over Dr. Johu Quackenbush was loi votes. May 4. Charter election, Mayor, Eli Perry: Common Council: Owen Golden, James Schuyler, L Thomas P. Morrow, Michael Dcle- lianty, H. Samuel W. Gibbs, Nehemiah Osborn, HL John D. Serviss, Philip Wendell, IV. John Winne, Albion Ransom, A'. James B. Sanders, James A. Wilson, VL John Benson, Thomas Kearney, VH. Charles Snowden, John Evers, VH. Richard Barhydt, Ichabod L. Judson, IX. Isaac Vandcrpoel, Christo- plier W. Bender, X. Election, April 13 ; sworn in. May 4. Albany Rural Cemetery receiving vault erected. Knickerbocker Rowing Club founded. Ancient Order of Hibernians organized. Atlantic cable laying celebration, Sept. i. Firemen's jubilee for three days. 3,000 coming from six other States. Sept. 29. ^B^t, .■^' * ^^Stti^ HH^^lH RECEIVIXG \ AULTS. RURA.L CEMETERY CHAPEL AND VAULT. The vaults, for convenience in winter, were constructed in 1858, and the Chapel, for free use at burials, in 1884. They are conveniently near each other on opposite sides of the main driveway. No. 48. ELI PERKY. 625 1858-1859. Common Council minutes first printed, Oct. 6. Union Musical Ass'n ( R. L. Johnson, Pres. ) organized, October. Joel Munsell's "Annals of Albany," consisting of 10 volumes, be- ginning with " Notes from the Newspapers " at about 1770, a very few notes at the start, but a source of much information furnished thereby up to Sept. 7, 1847, at which time the " annals '" (or daily chronicle) commence, and terminate at this date, December. 1859. Edwin D. Morgan becomes Governor, Jan. i. Charter officials holding office for this year — Mayor, Eli Perry ; Common Council : James Schuyler, Henry Mix, I. Michael Delehanty, Thomas Schuyler, II. Nehemiah Osborn, Isaac N. Keeler, III. Philip Wendell, Horace L. Emery, IV. Albion Ransom, Charles B. Redfield, V. James A. Wilson, George Thacher, VI. Thomas Kearney, Thomas Mattimore, VII. John Evers, Martin White, VIII. Ichabod L. Judson, Charles Bell, IX. Christopher W. Bender, William P. Brayton, X. In office, Jan. I. River closed to navigation, Government record, Jan. 17. Teunis Van Vechten (ex-mayor) dies, Feb. 4. Piccolomini at Association Hall, Feb. 14. Commerce Insurance Company of Albany, capital $200,000, (Silas B. Hamilton, Pres.) organized. River opens to navigation. Government record, March 13. Nicholas Flill, (able lawyer) dies. May i. Hiawatha and Excelsior Rowing Clubs founded. St. Peter's church ('2nd edifice) demolished and work on new one commenced, Richard M. Upjohn, architect ; Rev. Thomas Clapp Pitkin, rector; length, 136 ft.; breadth, 68 ft; height, 64 ft., Gothic ; corner-stone laid, June 29. Sacred Heart Convent remvose to its thir quarters, from Hlilhouse property on Troy Road, to Joel Rathbone estate, Kenwood. First match rowing race at Albany. Tabernacle Bap. Cb. organized, Clinton ave. and Ten Broeck, October. State Fair, the 19th (Abraham B. Conger, Pres.) held at Albany 3rd time. School No. 13 occupies .State Arsenal. Broadway and Lawrence. River closes to navigation. Government record^ Dec. lO. 626 ELI PERRY. No. 48. 1860, 1862. 1860. Population of the city 62,367. Population of New York State 3,880,735. William IJarnes, Sr., appointed the first State superintendent of insurance, Jan. 12. St. George's Benevolent Society re-organized, Jan. 27. River opens to navigation. Government record, March 3. Kerosene oil introduced in Albany. Time-ball dropped on Capitol by Dudley Observatory. George Hornell Thacher elected the Mayor of Albany at the Charter election, receiving 4,825 votes as the Democratic candi- date ; his opponent, John Taylor, receiving 4,090 votes as the Republican candidate ; Hiram Perry receiving 334 votes ; blank and scattering, 19 votes; total number of votes cast, 0,268; Thacher's majority over Taylor being 735 votes, he is declared elected the Mayor of Albany, April 10, • * • ( See No. 50.) ( Continued from No. 50.) 1862. Hon. Eli Jr'erry is sworn as the Mayor of Albany a fifth time, suc- ceeding Mayor John Taylor, liaving been elected at the Charter election held on April 8, 1862, when he received 5,635 votes as the Democratic candidate ; liis opponent George W. Luther, receiving 3,146 votes as the Republican candidate; blank and scattering, 40 votes; total number of votes cast, 8,821 ; Perry's majority over Luther being 2,489 votes he was declared chosen Mayor of Albany, ]\Iay 6. Charter election. Mayor, Eli Perry ; Common Council : John Tracey, Bernard Reynolds, L Lemuel M. Rodgers, Thomas AlcCarty, H. John W. Harcourt, John Kennedy, HL William Hastings, \\'illiam ( )rr, I\'. Erastus Corning, Jr., James L Johnson, \\ .Samuel Anable, Abraham A. Wemple, VL Ed- ward Mulcahy, Terrence J. Quinn, \TL Michael A. Sheehan. Thomas J. Cowell. \TIT. John Phillips, George L Amsdell, IX. Joseph T. Rice, Edward Wilson, X. Election, April 8 ; sworn in, * May 6. ST. PETER'S CHURCH — THIRD EDIFICE. The second edifice, built in 1802 at N. W. cor. of State and Lodge sts., was taken down, and the cornerstone of this one laid on June 29, 1859; Gothic style; Richard M. Upjohn, Architect; first service Sept. i6th, and consecrated by Bishop Horatio Potter, Oct. 4, i86c. No. 48. ELI PERRY. 627 1862-1863. National Commercial Bank obviates calling extra Legislative session by paying bounties amounting to $3,500,000, .Uilv- Dr. John Swinburne, appointed chief of Gen. John F. Rathbone's medical staff at the begimiing of the war, given full command by Major-General McClellan of all surgical cases at Savage Station sick camp, near Richmond, Va., one of the most im- portant hospital stations throughout the war, June 20. Ex-President Martin Van Buren, who had had a law office in this city; born at Kinderhook on Dec. 5. 1782, Governor of New York, 1828-29; Secretary of State under President Jackson; U. S. Minister to Gt. Britain, 1831 ; Vice-President, 1833-1837; 8th President, 1837-1841 ; dies at his home, Kinderhook, July 24. Steamboat Mary Powell starts first trip, July- Departure of 113th Reg't, Col. Lew O. Morris, for Washington, D. C, ^ ^ Aug. 19. Recruiting offices kept open on Sunday because of the stress, the clergy delivering stirring patriotic addresses on State st., Aug. 31, Tenth Regiment's services acceoted, Sept. 2. St. Paul's Episcopal Church (its 3rd edifice) south side of Lan- caster, west of Swan St., first occupied, Sept. 21. State Street Presbyterian Church (south side, west of Swan) dedi- cated, Oct. 12. Trinity Place ordered so designated, Oct. 20. Albany Zouave Cadets (Co. A) mustered into U. S. service as Co. A, 177th N. Y. Vols., Nov. 21. Departure of the loth Regiment for seat of war, crowds standing in the streets and swarming in windows and upon roofs, women crying and flags waving, which in conjunction with the patri- otic martial music makes a stirring scene, remembered by all long years after, Dec. 16. River closes to navigation, official record, Dec. 23. 1863. Horatio Seymour becomes Governor, Jan. i. Charter ofificials holding office for the year, but not tlie result of election this year — Mayor, Eli Perry ; Common Council : John Tracey, Bernard Reynolds, L Lemuel M. Rodgers, Thomas McCarty, IL James McTntyre, John Kennedy, Jr., TIT. Fran- cis N. Sill, William Orr, IV. Erastus Corning, Jr., James I.. Johnson, V. John R. McCollum, Charles E. Bleecker, VL Edward ]\Iulcahy, Terrence J. Quinn, \TI. James C. Nolan, 628 ELI PERRY. No. 48. 1863. J. Cowell, VIII. Richard Barhydt, George I. Amsdell, IX. Edward Wilson, William Gould, X. In office on, Jan. i. First fire steamer house. No. 4, " the McQuade," opened. Post-office opened in the Exchange Building, Jan. 24. Rufus H. King elected president of Albany Savings bank, because of death (1862) of Gerrit Y. Lansing. Albany Academy celebrates semi-centennial, March 4. ]\Irs. Blandina Dudley, widow of late Mayor Charles E. Dudley and founder of the Dudley Observatory, dies, March 6. River open to navigation, official record, April 7. Children's Friend Society incorporated, April 7. Resolution of Senator James A. Bell to erect new Capitol, April 24. Capt. Wm. James Temple, aged 22, dies of wounds at Chancellors- ville, May i. Clinton avenue changed from Patroon street, May 4. Board of Lumber Dealers organized, Henry O. Hawley, president. John Meads, prominent citizen, aged 60, dies. May 11. Adjt. Richard Marvin Strong dies at Camp Bonnet Carre, La., of typhoid, May 12. Recruiting tents again erected in the middle of State street, May 12. Third Regiment returns, having left here May 16, 1861, with 780 strong, under Col. Frederick Townsend, only 422 coming back alive. May 15. Gen. Geo. B. McClellan a visitor of the city. May 23. Steamboat St. John of I*eople's evening line, built by John Englis. New York, to run following year, 2,645 tons, 420x51 x 10 ft. Steamboat Milton Martin (General Grant's dispatch boat on James river) built at Jersey City, put on Newburgh line. Steamboat Thomas Cornell built by E. S. Whitlock, 1.256 tons, 310 feet long, 34 feet broad, 10 feet deep, 72 x 144 in. engine. Steamboat Berkshire built by Morton & Edmonds, 253 x 37 x 10 feet, 54 X 132 in. engine. Strike of formidable proportions, dock laborers and Central railroad employees seeking advance of 37>4 cts., mob ruling city and marching with clubs to all workshops, requiring services of 25th Reg't, June 15. Horse-cars start running on Broadway. June 22. Albany Boys' Academy celebrates semi-centennial, Orlando Meads the orator, at Tweddle hall, June 23. Watervliet Turnpike & Railroad Co. operates horse-cars from Broadway and S. Ferry st. to 25th street in Watervliet, July 4. 3 ^ ^ c O j2 be < 2 O o ■p pq ni K w n r U o H rt ^ -'^ ^ c/l Hh r- rt C/} 'Z^ ^ CO ^ ii H O ■ •-< jO -I-. (L) < d rt t. ^ „ (x: o > _>. 3 3 ^ ^ J 4-J V- o 1— 1 C 2 03 ^ o ■? eq u .z, : Q!i ^bfi < cq J C/3 (L) c l-H o 0H 'c w !g -^ D hJ & S c OQ o "^ u ^ 01 <; > < be \ - ;_ O Xi a c ~ in J4 ■< No. 48- ELI PERRY. 633 1866. 1866. Ladies' Army Relief Association that had a large " Bazaar " in Academy Park, reports having raised $19,712.30. Jan. i. Board of Public Instruction created by Chapter 444. Laws of 1866. Board of Public Instruction elects John O. Cole its first ^iresidcnt. Board of Public Instruction appoints Henry B. Haswell the first superintendent of schools. Prof. James Plall made director of N. Y. State Museum. Dr. Eliphalet Nott, some time an Albany pastor, (b. Ashford, Conn., June 25, 1773) president of LTnion College, 1804-1866, dies at Schenectady, Jan. 29. Caecilia Singing Society (John Waas, Pres.) organized, Feb. 3. " L^pper " ( Lumber street or Livingston ave.) bridge, 21 piers, 1,953 ft., a total of 4.253 ft., opened. Feb. 22. River opens to navigation. Government record March 20. George Hornell Thacher elected the Mayor of Albany a second time, being chosen at the Charter election when he receives 5,600 votes as the Democratic candidate : his opponent, Robert Hewson Pruyn, receiving 4,867 votes as the Republican candi- date; blank and scattering, 18 votes; total number of votes cast, 10,485 ; Thacher's majority over Pruyn being 733 votes, he is declared elected the Mayor of Albany, April 10. • • • (See No. 50.) No. 49. OIljarbH Uateon ^niari. April 28, 1&56 — May 5, 1856 No. 49. CHARLES WATSON GODARD. Date of office: April 28, 1856-May 5, 1856. Date of election: Appointed by Common Conncil to fill vacancy. Political party: Republican. Vote: Unanimous. Opponent: None. Vote: None. Date of birth: July 2^, 1817. Place of birth: Granby, Conn. Parents: Drayton (G.) and Achsah U. Gaines. Education: School at Sauquoit, N. Y. Married to: Lydia Lorraine Wilson. Date: Canastota, N. Y., March 17, 1841. Children: (4) Helen (Powell), Clara, Lillie (Rietz), Josephine (Crosman). Residence: No. 79 Hawk street. Occupation: Agent for lake boats, 98 Pier. Religion: Baptist. Date of death: February 19, 1883. Place of death: Brooklyn. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Captain. Remarks: Appointed by Common Council, on the death of Mayor Parmelee. Captain of the Port of New York, Governor Fen- ton's administration. First Vice-President of the Union League of America. Prominent lecturer and philanthropist. Warm friend of Garfield, Blaine, Greeley, Fenton and Thur- low Weed. 49. CHARLES WATSON GODARD. 1856. 1 1. frn.n life bv B Grey, Bloomington, 111., and No. 49. CHARLES WATSON GODARD. 637 1856. (Continued from No. 45.) 1856. Mayor William Parmelee's funeral attended by a vast concourse of sorrowing friends, members of the bar, political officers and those who had been connected with him by those institutions with which he had been associated, despite a blinding snow- storm, March 19, Tannery on lower Broadway destroyed by fire, loss $16,000, March 20. Albany Morning Express discontinued, March 22. Albany Daily Statesman, advocate of "American " party, started, March 24. Gorham A. Worth, former cashier of Mechanics & Farmers' Bank and author of " Random Recollections of Albany," aged 73 years, dies in New York city, April 3. Ice moves from before city front, April 4. At the Charter election, held to fill the office of Mayor, William Parmelee having died on March 15th, the count showed Dr. John V. P. Ouackenbush had 20 votes more than Eli Perry, but notice of contest given, April 8. Hudson River Bridge Co. incorporated, April 9. Legislature adjourns, April 9. River open to navigation, official record, April 10. Wadsworth Lodge, No. 417, instituted. Joseph Fry, prominently known as the publisher and collaborator of the first Albany City Directory (1813), born at East Green- wich, R. L, in 1774, and came to this city in 1796, where two years later he joined with Solomon Southwick in publishing the Albany Chronicle ; but gaining most of his competence from tobacco business, dies, April ii. Recent charter election declared fraudulent, and an indignation meeting is held in the " Old " Capitol, followed in the evening by a meeting of the Common Council at which the returns of the 7th and 8th wards are asserted to be fraudulent, and the Board votes 1 1 to 9 that Eli Perry is elected mayor, April 14. Normal school elects David H. Cochrane its (4th) principal, suc- ceeding S. B. Woolworth. 638 CHARLES WATSON GODARD. No. 49. 1856. Albany Evening Times (Dem.) founded by Stone & Co., April 21. Common Council elects Charles Watson Godard Mayor of Albany to fill the unexpired term of the late William Parmelee, April 28. Common Council (newly elected board) elects Dr. John V. P. Quackenbush to be ]\Iayor ; but as the previous Board had chosen Eli Perry, the city was in a quandary with its two mayors. . Alay 6. • • • fSee No. 48.) No. 50. (Btxiv^t ^omtll ®l)arl|^r. May 1, I860 — May 5, 1862. * * -;{- May 1, 1866 — May 5, 1868. -jfr * # May 6, 1870 — May 6. 1872. May 7, 1872— Jan. 28, 1874. No. 50. GEORGE HORNELL THACHER. Date of office: (a) May i, 1860-May 5, 1862. (b) May i, 1866-May 5, 1868. (c) May 6, 1870-May 6, 1872. (d) May 7, 1872-January 28, 1874. (resigned). Date of election: (a) April 10, i860. (b) April 10, 1866. (c) April 12, 1870. (d) April 9, 1872. Political party: Democrat. Vote: (a) 4,825. (b) 5,600. (c) 7,221. (d) 0.588. Opponent: (a) John Taylor, (aa) Hiram Perry. (b) Robert EI. Pruyn. (c) Edmund L. Judson, (cc) John Fair. (d) Edmund L. Judson, (dd) John McCarty. Political party: (a) Republican. (b) Republican. (c) Republican. (d) Republican. Vote: (a) 4,090, (aa) 334, blank and scattering 19. (b) 4,867, blank and scattering 18. (c) 5-983. (cc) 489- (d) 6.387, (dd) 2,157. Total vote: (a) 9,268. (b) 10,485. (c) 13,693. (d) 15,132- Date of birth: June 4, 1818. Place of birth: Hornellsville, N. Y. Parents: Samuel Olney (T.) and Martha Hornell. Education: Academic; Union, '43. Married to: Ursula Jane Boyd. Date: Schenectady, June 15, 1843. Children: John Boyd (Mayor, 1886). George Hornell. Residence: No. 729 Broadway. Occupation: Car-wheel manufacturer. Religion: Presbyterian. Date of death: February 5, 1887. Place of death: St. Augustine, Fla. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Came to Albany in 1849. Alderman, 1859. School No. 14 completed, 1861. Work begun on New York Central Maiden Lane bridge, May, 1870; opened 1872; 22 piers; length, 2,665 feet. School No. 15 completed, 1871. School No. II completed, 1873. 50. GEORGE HORNELL THACHER. 1860-62; 1866-68; 1870-74. From a photograph made from life by J. N. McDonnald, and owned in 1904 by his son. Hon. John Boyd Thacher. No. 50. GEORGE HORNELL THACHER. 64I 1860. (Continued from No. 48.) 1860. George Hornell Thacher is sworn in as Mayor of Albany, having been elected at a charter election held April loth, when he re- ceived 4,825 votes as the Democratic candidate, his opponent, John Taylor, receiving 4,090 votes as the Republican candi- date ; Hiram Perry receiving 334 votes ; blank and scattering, 19 votes; total number of votes cast, 9,268; Thacher's major- ity over Taylor being 735 votes. May i, St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church consecrated, May 13. Weather observations started methodically by Prof. Geo. W. Hough at the Dudley Observatory. 13 years previous to establishment of the Government weather bureau at this city. May. Charter election, Mayor, George H. Thacher ; Common Council : Henry Mix, Owen Golden, L Thomas Schuyler, Michael Dele- hanty, H. Isaac N. Keeler, John C. Feltman, HI. Horace L. Emery, Philip Wendell, IV. Charles B. Redfield, James I. Johnson, V. Henry A. Allen, Alanson A. Sumner, VI. Thomas Mattimore, Terrence J. Ouinn, VII. Martin White, John Evers, VIII. Charles Bell, William J. Humphrey, IX. Wil- liam B. Brayton, George W. Luther, X. Election, April i ; sworn in. May i. Steamboat Daniel Drew (which was to run for next 20 years as a day boat between New York and Albany) built by Thos. CoU- yer, 880 tons, 251 feet long, 30 feet broad, 9^ feet deep, 60 X 120 in. engine. Tenth Regiment, Col. Ira W. Ainsworth, organized. Co. A, Tenth battalion, organized as Albany Zouave Cadets June 7. Albany & V'ermont railroad leased to Rensselaer & Saratoga road, June 12. National Commercial bank elects Ezra Parmelee Prentice (fourth) president, because of death of J. L. Schoolcraft, June 13. Schreiber's Albany Cornet band organized. Tweddle Hall, site of Philip Livingston's house, opened, June 29. Congress street changed from Spring street, Aug. 6. St. Peter's Church (3rd) building consecrated, Oct. 4. Lord Howe's remains (believed to be) placed in foundation of St. Peter's church vestibule. Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII.) visits Albany, Oct. 16. River closes to navigation (ofificial record), Dec. 14. 642 GEORGE HORNELL THACHER. No. 50. 1860-1861. Jephthah Lodge, No. 13, F. & A. M., constituted, Dec. 26. Co. B, of Tenth battalion, assigned from 76th to 29th Reg't, Dec. 26. Albany Zouave Cadets (Co. A) joins the National Guard and loth Regt., Dec. 29. 1861. United Presbyterian Church, Lancaster near Eagle street, occupied, January. Albany was made notable throughout the country when, during the State Anti-Slavery Convention (Feb. 4 and 5, 1861) the right of free speech was here first vindicated. Frederick Douglass, Lucretia Alott, Gerrit Smith and other Abolitionists, after fail- ing in securing a hearing in Bufifalo and several other cities, decided to come here. At this time a petition was presented to the Mayor requesting him to use his authority to suppress free speech and prevent the meeting of the Abolitionists. The answer of the Mayor was a noble one, and closed as follows : " Let at least the Capital of the Empire State be kept free from the disgraceful proceedings which, in other localities, have brought dishonor upon our institutions. At all events, come what may, mob law shall never prevail in our good city with my consent and connivance, George H. Thacher, Mayor." The meeting was held in the Young Men's Association Hall, and a riot ensued ; but Mayor Thacher, with the police, drove out the toughs who had instigated it, and a full and peaceful hearing was obtained,— the first in New York State, Feb. 4. Grace (Epis.) church institutes first boy choir in city. Third Precinct police station uses dwelling. No. 799 Broadway. Freshet carries away three bridges leading to pier, Feb. 13 President Lincoln welcomed as guest, Feb. 18 Albany Evening Times united with Courier, March i Burgesses corps acts as escort at inaugural of Lincoln, March 4 River open to navigation (official record), March 5 Emerson W. Keyes appointed State superintendent of public in- struction, April 9. Charter officials holding office for one year from this date (the second named alderman of each ward being elected on this date) the mayor holding office at this time being Eli Perry; Common Council : Owen Golden, John Tracey, L Michael Delehanty, Lemuel M. Rogers, IL John C. Feltman, John W. Harcourt, IIL Philip Wendell, William Hastings, IV. James ST. PETER'S CHURCH — INTERIOR. This is the interior of the 3rd edifice as originally constructed ; length, 136 ft.; breadth, 68 ft.; height, 64 ft.; Rev. Thos. C. Pitkin, rector; first service herein, Sept. i6th and consecrated Oct. 4, i860. No. 50. GEORGE HORNELL THACHER. 643 1861. I. Johnson, Erastus Corning, Jr., V. Alanson A. Sumner, Samuel Anable, VI. Terrence J. Quinn, Edward Mulcahy, VII. John Ewrs, Patrick M'. McCall, VIII. WilHam J. Humphrey, John PhilHps, IX. George W. Luther, Joseph T. Rice, X. Election of April 9. Departure of 25th Regt. for Washington, April 22. Firemen engaging in military duty granted full pay durmg ab- sence, ' April 23. Bank of Albany fails through unsettled state of the country and stagnation of business, surprising everyone, May 11. Burgesses corps leave for seats of war on first call. Failures of Bank of the Capital, Bank of Interior, and National Bank, May. Col. Ephraim Elmer Ellsworth (b. Mechanicville, N. Y., April 21. 1837, and well-known as a young man of spirit at Albany j having been to Chicago as a patent solicitor, he accompanied Lincoln to Washington in March, and imbued with his patrio- tism, organized in April a company of firemen which he styled Zouaves (known as the nth New York Regiment), and de- parting with these for the scene of conflict he was among the first to participate in the struggle for emancipation. On May 24. 1861, at Alexandria. Va., seeing a Confederate flag flying from the roof of the Alarshall House, he ascended to remove it, and while coming down the stairs with it in his arms was shot in the left breast (as to be seen in his lon^ army coat preserved in the Bureau of Army Relics in the Capitol, 1906) by the proprietor, James T. Jackson, and died. His body was sent on for burial at his native town, and reached Albany on the steamboat Francis Skiddy at 4:30 a. m.. accompanied by the delegation of firemen that had been sent from this city to escort the remains here. At the wharf it is met by a military pro- cession numbering 2,000 soldiers under Ma j -Gen. John Tayler Cooper, who escort the casket to the (old) Capitol at the head of State St., where it remains until 9 o'clock. The procession then reforms, the body is escorted through the streets with funeral dirges playing, is placed aboard the Troy boat, and from that city taken to Mechanicville for burial. May 27. Steamboat Mary Powell of the New York & Newburgh line (yearly plying to Albany) built by AI. S. Allison, 983 tons, 260 X ^4 X 10 feet, 72 X 144 in. engine, many years the record boat of the river. Co. D organized as Co. D of loth Regiment, July 2. Steamboat James W. Baldwin built by M. S. Allison. 710 tons, 242 X 34 X 9 feet, 60 X 132 in. engine. 644 GEORGE HORNELL THACHER. No. 50. 1861-1862, 1866. Henr)^ H. Van Dyke appointed State superintendent of banks, Aug. 16. School No. 14 completed. Robert Hewson Pruyn appointed U. S. Minister to Japan by Presi- dent Lincoln September. De Witt Clinton Council No. 22, R. & S. M., instituted. Ladies' Army Relief Association organized, November. Albany City Curling club incorporated. River closes to navigation (official record), Dec. 28. 1862. First fire-engine bought was the McQuade. Internal Revenue office established at Albany. Burgesses corps move to Bleecker hall (No. 527 Broadway) as armory. Recording barometer (first in the world) invented by Prof. Geo. Washington Hough, director of Dudley Observatory. River open to navigation (official record), April 3, Anshe Emeth (Hebrew) Cemetery opened. Eli Perry elected the 48th Mayor of Albany at a Charter election, receiving 5,635 votes as the Democratic candidate ; George W. Luther receiving 3,146 votes as the Republican candidate; blank and scattering, 40 votes; total number of votes cast, 8,821 ; Perry's majority over Luther being 2,489 votes he is declared elected, April 8. Hudson River Day Line established. Enlargement of the Erie canal completed. Watervliet Turnpike & Railroad Co. chartered, April 15. • • • (See No. 48.) (Continued from No. 48.) 1866. George Hornell Thacher sworn as Mayor of Albany, having been elected at a Charter election held on April loth, at which he received 5,600 votes as the Democratic candidate ; his oppo- nent, Robert Hewson Pruyn receiving 4.867 votes as the Re- publican candidate; blank and scattering, 18 votes: total 0} in >, n ^ rt bfl -n rt -a jn 03 o u j^ iX ■;; J3 o n, -r, ^ ■? > Ul r^ "^ ^H < r3 00 a K H _E LO _^ "^ ~ c c J2 0\ c« U >% oj -o be L5 a, 3 t/i •a a rt u ^ u c u rt aj , ^) OJ rt jr jr V be -a C c ^^ O O -T3 tJ g3 '^ G O rX -^ P^ ^1 No. 51. QIIfarbH Eimari llk^rkm May 6, 1866 — May 5, 1870 No. 51. CHARLES EDWARD BLEECKER. Date of office: May 6, 1868-May 5, 1870. Date of election: April 14, 1868. Political party: Democrat. Vote: 6,979. Opponent: John N. Parker. Political party: Republican. Vote: 4,143, blank and scattering 28. Total vote: 11,150. Date of birth: July 15, 1826. Place of birth: Albany. Parents: Gerrit V. S. (B.) and .Margaret Van Der Voort. Edncation: Albany Boys' Academy. Married to: Grace Strover. Date: Schuylerville, July 15, 1857. Children: None. Residence: Delavan Hotel. Occupation: Wine merchant. Religion: Dutch Reformed. Date of death: January 31, 1873. Place of death: No. 736 Broadway. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Alderman (sixth ward). Planned W^ashington Park. Masters Lodge. Albany Burgesses Corps. Albany Jackson Corps. \'eto power conferred on the IMayor in 1869. 51. CHARLES EDWARD ELEECKER. 1868-1870. From an oil painting made from life, and owned in 1903 by his sister, Mrs. Jacob H. Ten Eyck. No. 51. CHARLES EDWARD BLEECKER. 657 1868. (Continued from No. 50.) 1868. Charles Edward Bleecker sworn in as Mayor of Albany, having been chosen at the Charter election held on April 14th, when he received 6,979 votes as the Democratic candidate; his op- ponent, John N. Parker, receiving 4,143 votes as the Republican candidate; blank and scattering, 28 votes; total number of votes cast, 11,150; Bleecker's majority over Parker being 2,836 votes, May 6. Charter election. Mayor, Charles Edward Bleecker; Common Council: Timothy Sullivan, Plugh McCann, I. Thomas Mul- hall. Alexander Kennedy, II. Nehemiah Osborn, Jonathan B. Herrick, III. Adam Cook, Charles D. Mills, IV. John N. Parker, George Evans, V. Abraham A. Wemple. James E. Walker, VI. Oscar L. Hascy, IMichael Lyman, VII. George E. Latham. Michael S. McGue, VIII. Robert Lenox Banks, Adam W. Smith, IX. John B. Sturtevant, Charles G. Craft, X. Election, April 14; sworn in. May 6. Centre Market on west side of So. Pearl st., demolished to form site for City Building, s. w. corner of So. Pearl and Howard sts. Dr. Charles H. Peck of this city made N. Y. State Botanist. James Edwards, an able lawyer, dies, May 21. Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer, IV., (b. 1789) the last Patroon and resident of the Manor House (excepting his widow and family) dies there. May 25. St. Vincent's asylum opened on Elm street, for girls. Fire alarm telegraph system instituted, 75 boxes, June i. West street changed from DeWitt st., June i. Seventeen-year locusts appear. Peter Caggcr (able lawyer) dies, July 6. Gen. T- Meredith Read named consul-general at Paris (and remains during two sieges of that city). Albany Railway elects Henry Crandall (second) president, Aug. i. Albany Jackson Guard (Dem. political club) organized (Capt. James Macfarlane), Aug. 13. Charles Loring Elliot (eminent artist) dies, Aug. 25. St. Patrick's (R. C.) Church consecrated, Aug. 30. Albany Free Academy opens in Van Vechten hall ( n. side of State near Eagle street) with John E. Bradley its principal, and four teachers, Sept. i. 658 CHARLES EDWARD BLEECKER. No. 5I. 1868-1869. Albany Academy elects Rev. Abel Wood, A. ^I., its 8th principal. Congregational Church corner-stone laid, Sept. 22. Episcopal Diocese of Albany set ofif from New York Diocese at the convention held in New York city, Bishop Horatio Potter presiding, September. Broadway wood-paving begun, Sept. 30. Unconditional Republican Club formed. Benjamin F. Butler, former law partner of Alartin Van Buren at No. 1 1 1 State street, dies, Nov. 8. Dana Natural History Society organized Nov. 19. Eintracht Singing Society organized, Nov. 19. Convention of Episcopal Church assembles at St. Peter's Church to elect a bishop of the newly formed diocese, Dec. 2. William Croswell Doane, (b. Boston on March 2, 1832) who had been instituted rector of St. Peter's Church on March i, 1867, elected bishop on the 9th ballot by 41 clerical and 31 lay votes, Dec. 3. River closed to navigation, official record, Dec. 9. St. Ann's Roman Catholic Church consecrated, Dec. 20. 1869. John ,T. Hoffman becomes Governor, Jan. i. Gen. John Meredith Read appointed U. S. consul to France. A. & S. railroad open to Binghamton, Jan. 14. Rt. Rev. Wm. Croswell Doane consecrated bishop, in St. Peter's Church, Feb. 2. Sherman street changed from Sand st., Feb. 15. Dr. Jacob S. Mosher appointed surgeon-general by Governor Hoff- man. Burgesses Corps at Grant's first inaugural, [March 4. John M. Bailey appointed collector internal revenue. St. Mary's Church, 3rd edifice (first time facing Lodge st.) dedi- cated, March 14. River open to navigation, official record, April S- Charter election at which of those enumerated only the second named of each alderman was of this date elected — Mayor, Charles E. Bleecker ; Common Council : Hugh McCann, John Burk, I. Alexander Kennedy, Thomas Mulhall, H. Jonathan R. Herrick, Nehemiah Osborn, HI. Charles D. Mills, Peter Poland, IV. George Evans, John N. Parker, A'. James E. Walker, Ralph W. Thacher, Yl. Michael Lyman, Terrence J. * CO o 1) O -j^ bfi T! 'S b rt J:: i2 a t: £K o .5 c '" Q, "^ O ^ n '^ §^ g '-5 oJ o ■5 ^ j= ■> (^ o "2 rt en ^ C3 1> tn :5 0i No. 51. CHARLES EDWARD BLEECKER. 659 1869. Quinn, VII. Michael S. McGue, William B. Scott, VIII. Adam W. Smith, Albert C. Judson, IX. Charles G. Craft, Andrew M. Combs, X. Election, April 13. Albany Rural Cemetery appoints Jeffrey P. Thomas (4th) super- intendent. Ash Grove Place changed from Westerlo st., May 4. Park commission created by act of, May 5. Cohoes incorporated a city, May 9. Maiden Lane railroad bridge authorized by act of, May 10. Washington Park provided for (acquiring Washington Parade Ground and burial ground property adjoining) by act of. May 5. Board of Lumber Dealers incorporated. Albany Turn Verein incorporated. Trinity Place changed from Davidson St., June 14. National Savings Bank first opened, June 28. State Constitutional Convention in " Old " Capitol. Capitol foundation stonework begun, J. V. L. Pruyn laying first stone, July 7. Broadway (Hudson ave. to Wilson st.) paved with wooden blocks of Canada pine. Christian Brothers' Academy incorporated, Henry B. Haswell (ist superintendent of schools) dies, Emmanuel Baptist Church corner-stone laid, Division Street Theatre opened, John O. Cole ( ist president of Board of Public Instruction, organ- ized in 1866) resigns, Oct. 4. Board of Public Instruction appoints John O. Cole the (2nd) super- intendent of schools (succeeding H. B. Haswell of 1866). Board of Public Instruction elects Geo. W. Carpenter its (2nd> president (succeeding J. O. Cole of 1866). Rev. Dr. William Buel Sprague (Second Presbyterian Church) re- tires. Congregational Church, cost $130,000, dedicated, Oct. 14. N. Y. Central and the Hudson River Road consolidated, X^ov. i. Schreiber's Albany Cornet Band disbanded. St. Peter's Hospital (Stephen Van Rensselaer's house, N. Ferry St.) occupied, November. River closed to navigation, official record. Dec. 4. Sixth Presbyterian Church, s. side Second st., organized, Dec. 8. Trimble Opera House (Leland later) formerly Academy of Music, and burned Jan. 2^, 1868, erected by Lucien Barnes, husband of Miss Trimble (and so conducted until November 26, 1873),. on, Dec. ^i. Aug. 3- Aug. 10. Aug. 14. Oct. 4- 66o CHARLES EDWARD BLEECKER. No. 5I. 1870. 1870. Population of Albany 69422. Population of New York State 4,382,759. Albany Law Journal established. Second Police Precinct station located in City Building. Fire alarm boxes number sixty. Parepa Rosa sings at Tweddle Hall, Jan. 8. Albany Musical Association incorporated, Feb. 19. Beaverwyck Rowing Club organized, Feb. 22. A. & S. railroad to Binghamton leased to D. & H. line, Feb. 24. Martin Hail (opera house) erected by George Alartin. n. w. corner of So. Pearl and Beaver streets. Rev. Anson Judd Upson installed, Second Presbyterian Church. Capital City Chapter, No. 242, R. A. M., instituted. St. Agnes' School founded. River open to navigation, (official record), March 30. Bethlehem increased by s. e. part of Albany, April 6. Albany News Company organized, April 11. George Hornell Thacher elected Mayor at the Charter election, re- ceiving 7,221 votes as the Democratic candidate; his opponent, Edmund Lewis Judson, receiving 5,983 votes as the Republican candidate ; John Fair receiving 489 votes ; total number of votes cast, 13.693; Thacher's majority over Judson being 1,238 votes, he is declared elected Mayor, April 12. (See No. 50.) <;nX^TE tTIANiRHR. ASSEMBLY CHAMBER. CAPITOL OF 1808— HOUSES. The old Capitol was first used Nov. i, 1808, and its fate was sealed when Chancellor John V. L. Pruyn placed first stone of new building on July 7,^^, followed by cornerstone laid on June 24, 1871 ; razed in fall of 1883. bcene (1874) in Senate, Lt. Gov. Wm. Dorsheimer presiding; Assembly, Speaker Jas. Husted presiding. No. 52. April 14, 1874 — May 1. 1876. No. 52. EDMUND LEWIS JUDSON. Date of office: (a) April 14, 1874-May 4, 1874. (b) May 5, 1874-May i, 1876. Date of election: (a) April 9, 1872. (followed by successful court contest), (b) April 14, 1874. Political party: Republican. Vote: (a) 8,762. (b) 8,761. Opponent: (a) Tbomas McCarty, (aa) John C.'Feltman. (b) Thomas McCarty, (bb) John C. Feltman. Political party: (a) Democrat, (aa) American People's, (b) Democrat, (bb) American People's. Vote: (a) 7,270, (aa) 58. (b) 7,265, (bb) 195. Total J^ote: (a) 16,090. (b) 16,221. Date of birth: November 13, 1830. Place of birth: No. 134 Washington avenue. Parents: Ichabod (J.) and Parthenia Conde. Education: Albany Academy; Greylock, Williamstown, Mass. Married to: Martha Letitia Wright. Date: December 26, 1854. Children: (2) Albert Post, Elizabeth Wright (Griswold), Residence: No. 62 Jay street. Occupation: Flour and provision merchant. Religion: Episcopalian. Date of death: April 8, 1890. Place of death: No. 287 Lark street. Place of bnrial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Llonorable. Remarks: Alderman, 1862-66. Contested election of April 9, 1872 ; court ruled in his favor. On resignation of George H. Thacher, January 28, 1874, President of Council John G, Burch acted until double election, April 14th. School No. 22 completed 1874: school No. 21 completed 1875. President Young Men's Association. President Board of Trade. Master of Master's Lodge ; Grand Master of New York State. 52. EDMUND LEWIS JUDSON. I 874- I 876. From a photograph made from life by Horton, and owned in 1904 -by his daughter, Mrs. Clarence M. Griswold. No. 52. EDMUND LEWIS JUDSON. 663 1874. (Continued from No. 50.) 1874. Edmund Lewis Judson is sworn in as Mayor of Albany, having been elected at the Charter election held on April 14th, when he received 8,761 votes as the Republican candidate, his opponent, Thomas McCarty, receiving 7,265 votes as the Democratic candi- date ; John C. Feltman receiving 195 votes as the American People's candidate; total number of votes cast, 16,221 ; Judson's majority over McCarty being 1,496 votes; but since April 14th Judson had been adjudicated Mayor in contest with Mayor G. H. Thacher, following the Charter election held on April 12, 1872, Thacher nearly completing the entire term of two years before settlement, May 5. Bath-on-the-Hudson incorporated as a village, A-Iay 5. Trial of steam canal-boats on the Erie, City of New York and Baxter, proves a success, May. Ralph P. Lathrop appointed collector of internal revenue. The Col. Elmer E. Ellsworth monument unveiled at Mechanicville, Capt. Wm. E. Fitch of this city acting as grand marshal, the G. A. R. posts of Albany and Academy cadets attending and filling 20 cars. May 27. Memorial Day parade with M. H. Donovan as grand marshal, May 30. Albany County Eclectic Society organized, Robert Liston, M. D., elected its first president, June i. Chancellor Robert R. Livingston's statue completed in plaster by Erastus Dow Palmer (to be placed with that of Gov. George Clinton as the two from this state in the old Hall of Repre- sentatives of the capitol at Washington) and ready to be cast in bronze by Barbedienne at Paris (another made for the Court of Appeals Chamber in the capitol at Albany) , June 6. Albany County Bank organized. Dr. James MacNaughton, Albany's prominent physician, dies, Paris, June 12. Hydrophobia epidemic alarms and scientists seeking remedy, June. Albany Boatmen's Relief Association organized. Colorado potato-beetle, (Doryophora lo-lineata) first appears. Amoskeag fire steamer manufacturers and city engage in lawsuit over repairs to steamer No. 5, July 15, Broadway (Hudson ave. to Wilson st.) paved with granite block. 664 EDMUND LEWIS JUDSOX. No. 52. 1874. Steamboats J. B. Schuyler and G. E. \\'vnants collide at ni.cjht. July 28. Hudson avenue park plans and specifications completed. July 31. Ellsworth (44th. X. Y. ) \'eteran association triennial reunion. Aug. I. ^Mechanics & Farmers' bank work begun by demolishing building corner of James and State streets, ' Aug. 3. Sacred Heart Church (R. C. ) founded. Aug. 5. ^^^atervliet turnpike toll-gate ordered open until road is repaired. Aug. 5. Albany Yacht Club starts on first annual cruise to Newport. Aug. 6. Steamboat Dean Richmond runs aground north of \'an Wie's point and the Jacob Leonard removes passengers, Aug. 11. Perry Stove Company strike, Aug. 20. Interest manifested in report of investigating committee in the Henry W'arrl Beecher and Theodore Tilton case announced, Aug. 2y Home for aged men proposed by letter to newspaper. Aug. 29 Beaverwyck Rowing Club wins 4-oar race at Saratoga regatta. Aug. 31 G. A. R. sham battle at Fair Grounds, Aug. 31 Beaverwyck Rowing Club welcomed by ovation and parade. Ser>t. i Albany ^ledical College opened by lecture by Dr. James H. Armsbv Sept. 2 Beaverwyck Rowing Club wins National Regatta. Troy. Sept. 4 Clynics inaugurated at Albany Medical College by Dr. Armsby, Sept. 5 Albany Institute " field " trip on steamboat Granite State to Newport Nantucket and ^lartha's Mneyard. Sept. 7 Boston & Albany railroad freight house, 20 cars and oil tanks burn, Chief McOuade rendering assistance with steamers 3, 4 and 5, Sept. 7. Col. John McArdle (caterer) dies, Sept. 10. Gen. John ^Meredith Read on return as minister to Greece, honored with an elaborate dinner at Delavan House, Sept. 14. Charles W. Reynolds (lawyer) dies, Sept. 14. Rev. Dwight Kellogg Bartlett becomes minister Madison Avenue Reformed Church. School No. 22 completed. River closed to navigation TGovernment record), Dec. 12. ALBANY COUXTV BUILDING. It was erected by the Albany Savings Bank, which entered it ^lay II, 1875; county bought it in i8gS, and commenced alterations when the b^nk removed to its new editice on No. Pearl St.. Apr. 25, 1899. No. 52. EDMUND LEWIS JUDSON. 665 1875. 1875. Samuel J. Tilden becomes Governor, Jan. i. Charter officers : Mayor, Edmund Lewis Judson ; Common Council : Frederick Andes, I. John G. Schneider, 11. William Casey, III. William H. Keeler, IV. James N. Brady, V. Robert K. Oliver, VI. Jacob H. Ten Eyck, VII. Philip Mattimore, VIII. Peter C. Lauder, IX. James A. Fahy, X. John A. Luby, XI. Thomas Cavanaugh, XII. William H. Bailey, XIII. John P. Bradt, XIV. Joseph McCann, XV. Hiram Bender, XVI. William Casey (III), president. Holding office, Jan. i. Population of the city, 86,541. Irish-born in Albany (by state census) number 14,184 of 86,541. James Martin, Jr., poet (b. Albany, Sept. 28, 1828), dies at Albany, Feb. 7. William Cullen Bryant given reception by Gov. S. J. Tilden, Feb. 8. Babies' Nursery founded at No. 562 Clinton avenue. Governor Tilden commences attack upon canal ring, March. American District Telegraph Co. of Albany (messenger service) chartered. John Tweddle (malt-house proprietor) dies. March 9. Child's Hospital opened, March 26. River open to navigation (Government record). April 12. Charles Sumner Benevolent Association organized. Albany loth Regiment band mustered from Capital City band. St. Peter's Church parish house, e. side Lodge street, erected. Albany Savings Bank building, w. corner State and Chapel streets (becoming later County building) erected at cost of $247,808.22. Albany railway contracts for stable on Central avenue, near Quail street. May 24. Albany County Medical Society admits Miss Mary Du Bois, June 8. Death of Harriet Elizabeth Bayard at the Manor House (b. 1799), widow of Stephen Van Rensselaer, IV. (d. May 25, 1868) the last Patroon, June 19. Albany railway operates horse-cars on Hamilton, Grand and Beaver streets, July 3. Mechanics and Farmers' Bank building, State and James, erected. Washington Park bridge and lake house erected. School No. 21 completed. Pumping station established at foot of Clinton avenue, first operated to pump river water, Sept. 14. New York city papers first arrive by fast mail at 8 a. m., Sept. 16. 656 EDMUND LEWIS JUDSON. No. 52, 1875-1876. Mo7.art Singing' Society (Prof. Wm. Boehm, director) organized, Sept. 20. Capital City Lodge, No. 440, I. O. O. F., instituted, Sept. 23. Trinity (M. E.) Church corner-stone laid, n. w. corner Lark and Lancaster, Oct. 10. Albany railway elects Delavan Peck (third) president, Oct. 11. Board of Public Instruction elects Charles P. Easton (2nd time) its (5th) president (succeeding A. A. Keyes of 1873). Catherine Maley Cuyler, wife of Dexter Reynolds, attorney (b. Cuy- lerville, N. Y., Dec. 2, 1842) dies at Rochester, N. Y. (burial in Rural Cemetery), Oct. 23. Charles S. Fairchild elected State attorney-general, Nov. 2. National Commercial Bank elects Robert Hewson Pruyn (fifth) president to succeed E. P. Prentice, Nov. 24. George S. Dawson Post, No. 63, G. A. R. (Charles D. Rathbone. commander) organized, Nov. 25. Steamboat Sunnyside sinks, with eleven drowning, Dec. i. Federal building erection commenced, Dec. i. River closed to navigation, Dec. i. Ira Harris, able lawyer, dies, Dec. 2. Dr. James H. Armsby, founder of Albany Hospital, dies, Dec. 3. Cattle cars unloading at West Albany market number 24,937 of cattle, 3,507 of sheep, 8,455 oi hogs, 945 of horses ; total. 37,844 cars; daily average, 103 cars, during 1875. Charles Sumner Benevolent Association founded Dec. 13. John M. Crapo's rug store robbed, Dec. 23, St. Peter's church tower and chimes given by George Tweddle in memory of his father. John (died }>larch 9, 1875) and his mother, Sarah Tweddle, Dec. 2c,. 1876. Centennial year celebrated by midnight parade, Jan. i. Northern Boulevard begun (between Western and Central avenues). Jan. I. Savings banks of Albany reduce interest from 6 to 5;/, Jan. i. South Ferry running and first tow of year leaves for New York, Jan. 3. Legislature convenes and Governor Tilden's voluminous message is read, Jan. 4. Peter Gansevoort ('87th year) dies at his home. No. 115 Washing- ton avenue, Ian. 4, Pi o H-1 C^ < fin W CO p O X ^ o ^ << s •=; .t; < -a T3 00 c/^ 03 ^ Z -n w W (LI 3 C^ c/) 1— . 2; < o -a > _>> ^ D (n •j2 u. 3 re rt u >- > to "^ r- E UJ o — h4 CO « < J2 UJ '5 - ed -a "5 < -a & 0. J? -^ '^ u ■»-■ O ^'^'^ H U IT) S -i: " I^ ? — < vgl No. 52. EDMUND LEWIS JUDSON. 667 1876. Dr. John V. P. Quackenbush dies. Jan. 8 Mayor Jiidson aDpeals for subscriptions for the poor, Jan. lO LilHe Devereaux Blake addresses judiciary committee of Assembly on woman suffrage. Jan. i Col. A. J. Parker gives a reception for Edward Bowditch on being elected major of loth regiment, • Jan. 21 Agur Wells ( 86th year ) dies, Jan. 22 Governor Tilden, assisted by Mrs. Pelton. gives first public reception at Executive Mansion on Eagle street, Jan. 25 Wallace I^ruce lectures before Y. M. A. (" Landmarks of Scotland.") Jan. 27 Ex-Gov. John 'T. Hoffman lectures at Martin Hall before the Y. M A.. Feb. 3 Mrs. Howard Townsend organizes movement for women to send magnificent state banner to Centennial at Philadelphia, Eeb. 22 Y. M. O. ball at Martin Hall, Feb. 24 Murderer Joseph Waltz's body exhumed on the family farm at Cats- kill and appeal made to Bishop ]\IcNeirney to prevent burial in Jefl^erson cemetery, Catskill, Feb. 28. Western avenue land owners appeal to park board to pave with granite, thoroughfare being in wretched condition, March i. Fifth Police Precinct station house erected at 270 Central avenue. River open to navigation (Government record), April i. Firemen's Relief Association organized, April 4. Anthony Bleecker Banks elected Mayor of Albany at a Charter elec- tion, receiving 9,377 votes as the Democratic candidate ; his opponent, Edmund Lewis Judson. receiving 7,912 votes as the Republican candidate; total number of votes cast, 17,289; Banks' majority over Judson being 1,465 votes, he is declared elected mayor, April 11. • Ttr • (See No. 53.) CO O W > O O •" o _ u. o 15 a. --H c/^ >> ^ Jn O ■*" tiO >> >, g J3 rt O I — . _o -a S <^ c o ,5 o. >-.■ GO „ 1^ — f '^ s h. T2. I'ahernacle La.ptisl Church, u. \v. corner Ten Lroeck street and Clin- lf)n avenue, dedicated, Feh. 14. John b\ .Smyth api)ointed Stale suiierintendent of insurance, Vc]). \(). Louis D. Lilshur\' appointe y -5 ^ H '-c No. 54. May 7, 1878 — May 3, 1 880. May4, 1880— May 1, 1882. May 2, 1882— June 24, 1883. Xo. 54. ^IICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. Dal.^ of officc: (a) Mav 7. iS/S-AIay 3, 1880. (b) Alay 4, 1880-May r, 1882. (c) May 2. 1882-June 24, 1883. (resigns). Date of election: (a) April 9, 1878. (b) April 13, 1880. (c) April IT, 1882. Political party: Democrat. Vote: (a) 8.916. (b) 12,275. (c) 9'339- Opponent: (a) Nelson 11. Cbase. ( aa ) ^^'illiam A. Young. (b) George A. Birch, (bb) Scattering-. (c) John Swinburne. ( cc ) Scattering-. Political party: (a) Independent Labor Democrat. ( aa ) Repub- lican. (b) Republican. (c) Republican. l^otc: (a) 5,358. (aa) 4-540. (b) 7,582. (bb) 31. (c) 9,221. (cc) 18. Total 7'ote: (a) 18,814. (b) 19,888. (c) 18,578. Dale of birtli: May 4, 1834. Place of birth: Carlow, Ireland. Parents: Lawrence (N.) aiid Anne llealey. Pdiication: Public schools. Married to: Anne Elizabeth Ouinn. Date: Albany. September 8, 1861. Children: (y) Maria Teresa (Hawke), Katharine. Anne Elizabeth (Ilaubold), Helen Jennings. Jane Elizabeth ( Riddle 1. Fran- cis Joseph, JManche Mary. Residence: No. 53 Ten Broeck street. Occupation : President Reverwvck Rrewery. Religion: Roman Catholic. Died: May 31, 1905. Place of burial: St. Agnes' Cemetery. Rentarks: School No. 17 completed, 1878. School No. 25 com- pleted, 1878. ■ School No. 20 conipleted, 1880. City Hall destroyed liy fire. Februar\- 10, 1880. School No. 8 com- pleted, 1 88 1. 1 'roadway viaduct imder Xcw York Central Railroad tracks. Congress, 1881-83. 54- MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. ' 1878-1883. From a photograph made from Hfe by The Albany Art Union, and owned in 1904 by The Albany Institute. No. 54. MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. 1878. (Continued from No. 53.) 1878. Michael Nicholas Nolan sworn as Mayor of Albany, having^ been chosen at the Charter election held on April 9th, when he re- ceived 8,916 votes; his opponent, Nelson H. Chase, receiving- 5,358 votes as the Independent Labor Democrat; William A. Young- receiving 4,540 votes as the Republican candidate ; total number of votes cast, 18,814; Nolan's majority over Chase being 3'558 votes, Alay 7. Charter election. Mayor, Michael N. Nolan ; Common Council : John Zimmermann, I. Thomas B. Franklin, II. William A. Donahoe, III. John T. Gorman, IV. Isaac Brilleman, \'. William Manson, VI. James McKinney, VII. James H. Han- nig-an, VIII. Patrick Dillon, IX. Conrad Degen, X. David M. Alexander. XI. Thomas Cavanagh, XII. Theodore M. Amsdell, XIII. William Dey Ermand, XIV. Michael J. Gor- man, XV. Allston Adams, XVI. Thomas Cavanagh (XII), president. Election, April 9; sworn in. May 7. Telephone " exchange " first established, with one hundred members, the first to have machines installed at their houses being about seven doctors, for up to this time it had been seen here only in public halls where it was shown as an object of curiosity. May 8. Agitation begun to do away with the New York Central railroad's crossing at Broadway near Colonic street, by the construction of a viaduct, this place having been rendered extra hazardous by the constantly increasing traffic and switching of freight, the route being that taken by funerals on their way to the Troy Road and the crossing a scene of numerous accidents and annoying delays. May 10. The end came to Prof. Joseph Henry, Albanian and America's greatest scientist, after about a year of illness, while living at his home in Washington, D. C, where he was Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. His death and funeral are of national concern, the latter participated in by the President, his cabinet and all the official foreign representatives. Two weeks previ- ously he had said, in contemplating his illness : " I hope I have been able to do some good," and spoke of the amount of work awaiting his accomplishment. Although he had perfected more than one thousand actual experiments that tended to the 682 MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. No. 54. 1878. world's advancement, he felt that he had accomplished but the half of what he felt his capable brain competent to brint;- fortii, and although ai^ed, of l)nt the prime of life in his endeavors. It is peculiar that only on April i2tlL he liad written to Mr. Joseph Patterson of Philadelphia about the encourasj^-ement that his physician had held out to him in that he hoped to be able to go abroad the coming summer, and then, for nine-tenths of his long" letter, barelv able to manipulate a pen, the uremic acid affecting' his limbs, he wrote as the great scientist he was, con- sidering the fact that his mind had solved the most wonderful problems of his age, his thoughts on death and a future condi- tion, in the following vein, so well worthy of dwelling upon : "We live in a universe of change: nothing remains the same from one moment to another, and each moment of recorded time has its separate history. We are carried on by the ever-chang- ing events in the line of our destinv, and at the end of the year we are always at a considerable distance from the point of its beginning. How short the space between tlie two cardinal points of an earthly career ! — the point of birth and that of death ; and yet what a universe of wonders is presented to us in our rapid flight through this space! How small the wisdom obtained by a single life in its passage, and how small the known, when compared with the unknown, by the accumulation of the millions of lives, through the art of printing, in hundreds of years ! How many questions press themselves upon us in the contemplations whence come we, whither are we going, what is our final destiny, the object of our creation? What mysteries of unfathomable depths environ us on every side ! lUit, after all our speculations, and an attempt to grapple witli the problem of the universe, the simplest conception which explains and connects the phenomena is that of the existence of one Spiritual Being — infinite in wisdom, in power, and all divme ])erfections, which exists always and everywhere — wliich has created us with intellectual faculties sufficient, in some degree, to comprehend Plis operations as they are developed in Nature by what is called " Science." This Being is unchange- able, and, therefore. His operations are always in accordance with the same laws, the conditions being the same. Events that happened a thousand years ago will hapi^en again a thou- sand years to come, provided the condition of existence is the same. Indeed, a universe not governed by law would be a universe without the evidence of an intellectual director. In the scientific ex])lanati()n of physical ])henomena, we assume the JOSEPH HENRY, SCIENTIST. When this illustrious Albanian, the discoverer of the electric telegraph, died at Washington, on May 13, 1878, it was universal judgment that he was the greatest scientist of the age in America. No. 54. MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. 683 1878. existence of a principle having properties sufficient to produce the effects which we obsei-\'e ; and when the principle so assumed explains, by logical deductions from it, all the phenomena, wo call it a theory. Thus, we have the theory of light, the theory of electricity, etc. There is no proof, however, of the truth of these theories, except the explanation of the phenomena which they are invented to account for. This proof, however, is suf- ficient in any case in which every fact is fully explained, and can be predicted v/hen the conditions are known. In accord- ance with this scientific view, on what evidence does the exist- ence of a creator exist? First. It is one of the truths best established by experience in my own mind, that I have a think- ing, willing principle within me, capable of intellectual activity and of moral feeling. Second. It is equally clear to me that you have a similar spiritual principle within yourself, since when I ask you an intelligent question you give me an intellectual answer. Third. When I examine the operations of Nature, I find everywhere through them evidences of intellectual arrange- ments, of contrivances to reach definite ends, precisely as I find in the operations of man ; and hence I infer that these two classes of operations are results of similar intelligence. Again, in my own mind, I find ideas of right and wrong, of good and evil. These ideas exist in the universe, and. therefore, form a basis of our ideas of a moral universe. Furthermore, the concep- tions of good which are found among our ideas associated with evil, can be attributed only to a Being of infinite perfections, like that which we denominate ' God '." He was born on the south side of Division street, west of Green street, of Scotch ancestors; his father, William Henry, dying when he was a boy, and his mother bringing him up in accord with the strictest of Presby- terian doctrines. He studied at the Albany Academy, taught a district school at Selkirk two years, was apprenticed to a jeweler for a time and was a tutor at the Van Rensselaer Manor House. On Sept. ii, 1826, he became professor of natural sciences at the Albany Academy, and in 1828 discovered the principle of his wonderful " intensity " magnet which made it possible to operate electrical mechanism at any distance over a wire. He exhibited his magnetic " spool " or " bobbin," that useful form of coil in electro-magnetism, before The Albany Institute in ■March. 1829. and perfecting it to exert greater power, had his paper, descriptive of it, printed in Silliman's American Journal of Science in January. 183 1. He saw the value of the discoverv in that bv being able to attract bv 684 MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. . No. 54. J 1878. magnet at a distance, hold a weight even of a thousand pounds and release it by opening of the circuit, he could make an elec- trical telegraph, or communicate signals by this method. Fol- lowing his conception of the telegraph in 1828, he strung about two miles of wire, which he had insulated from contact, about the large room, second floor, of the Albany Academy in July, 1829, and by a metal lever striking upon a small bell, operated through this long stretch of wire, he demonstrated to his class the feasibility of an electric telegraph, and the " sounder " of the century following is but a commercial form of this original instrument. Prof. James Hall, late State geologist, testified to seeing this apparatus working successfully there in August, 1832. He left Albany in November, 1832, to join the faculty of the College of New Jersey (Princeton) and made discoveries there that were of great practical benefit. He became first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution at Washington, D. C, on Dec. 3, 1846, and organized it on his plan, as submitted Dec. 8, 1847, oi"! lines he believed the late James Smithson in- tended under his will. He established the Lighthouse Board, at the head of which he was for twenty-five years ; studied the laws affecting signals by sound at sea to avert danger ; inaug- urated the system of mapping the weather and sending out fore- casts all over the country. He was elected president of these bodies : American Association for the Advancement of Science, 1849; United States National Academy of Sciences, 1868; Phil- osophical Society of Washington, 1871. President Hayes, his cabinet and all the ambassadors with their suites attended the funeral and he was buried in Oakhill Cemetery, Georgetown, on the 1 6th. A public commemoration service was held in the House of Representatives, Vice-President Wheeler presiding, and the President among the auditors, on May 17th. The ad- dresses delivered on this memorable occasion were gathered and printed in a volume of large size, containing 528 pages, and "published by order of Congress" in 1880. A list of a line index of his scientific publications, covers ten pages in this book. A bronze statue by Sculptor W. W. Story was erected later in the Smithsonian's grounds by the U. S. Government, and when each State was requested to present two statues to the collection of the House of Representatives, his likeness was one of the two chosen from the Empire State. The day before his death he rested in slumber but awoke when his friend. Prof. Simon Newcomb, the astronomer, was standing by his bed, and Xo. 54. MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. 685 1878-1879. not only asked whether the observation of the transit of Mercury had been a success, but inquired about the chance for an ap- propriation for future observations. On the day of his death, his mind reverted to experiments at sea, and the last thing- he gave utterance to was to ask the direction of the wind. He was then in a semi-conscious condition, and died at 12:10 o'clock. May 13. New edifice declared officially the State Capitol. May 14. Rifle range leased on Genet farm, Greenbush Heights (Rensselaer), opened in the spring. Kenmore Hotel opened at s. w. corner North Pearl and Columbia streets. Telephone exchange established here, the 3rd in United States, May 22. Albany Baseball Club of Professionals, Greenbush grounds, or- ganized. Steamboat J. G. Sanders put on Albany & Troy Line. Albany Tennis Club organized. Gasworks at North Albany blown down during gale, and parts car- ried across the river. July 21. Prospect Hill reservoir, north of Central avenue and east of Colby street, containing 7,000,000 gallons, built. Gen. John Tayler Cooper, a most prominent citizen, dies, Aug. 13. Mutual Rowing Club wins at National regatta, Newark, N. J., Aug. 20. Jackson Corps (organized in 1867) becomes military body. School No. 17 completed. School No. 25 completed. Board of Public Instruction appoints Charles W. Cole the (3rd) superintendent of schools (succeeding J. O. Cole of 1869). Albany Railway elects Abraham Van Vechten (fourth) president, Oct. 14. Temple Tabernacle No. 5, U. S. A. K. T. P., instituted. Ancient Order of United Workmen organized in Albany. Lyman Tremain (prominent lawyer and State attorney-general) dies, Nov. 30. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 21. 1879. Charter officials holding office at this time for the year — ^Nlayor, Michael N. Nolan ; Common Council : John Zimmermann, L 686 MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. No. 54. 1879. Thomas B. Franklin, II. William A. Donahoe, III. John T. Gorman, R'. Isaac Brilleman, A'. William Manson, VI. James jMcKinney, VII. James H. Hannigan, VIII. Edwin V. Kirtland, IX. Conrad Degen, X. David M. Alexander, XI. Thomas Cavanagh, XII. Theodore AI. Amsdell, XIII. William Dey Ermand, XIV. Michael J. Gorman, X\ \ Allston Adams, XVI. Thomas Cavanagh ( XII), president. Holding office on, Jan. I. New Capitol opened in part formally by reception, Jan. 7. Peter ]\Ionteath, prominent wholesale grocer for half a century, (b. Albany, Oct. 30, 181 1) dies, Jan. 13. Gilbert & Sullivan's " Pinafore " first produced, a craze, Leland, Feb. 17. John G. Treadwell (ist superintendent of school buildings) resigns, March 3. Alexander Sayles appointed (2nd) superintendent of school build- ings (succeeding J. G. Treadwell of 1872). Isaac Edwards (school commissioner) dies, March 26 Albany Railway's Central avenue stables burned, March 28 River open to navigation (Government record), March 29 Livingston avenue changed from Lumber street, April 21 Forester Gun Club organized. May 6 Federal Building (Post-Office) corner-stone laid. May 7 James Kidd, first president of Albany Railway and donor of site of Home for the Friendless, dies at his home, X^o. 7 Elk St., May 20. Gen. J. Meredith Read leaves Greece (as L\ S. minister), May 28. Hudson River Line (formed in 1862 as the New York & Albany Day Line, later Hudson River Day Line) incorporated. National Encampment of G. A. R., June 17-18. Swimming-school of Garrett J. Benson opened on east shore. Commercial Telephone Co. in operation, July. Mutual Rowing Club wins 6-oared at National regatta, Saratoga, July 9- N. Y. State National Bank elects J. Howard King its (5th) presi- dent, July 21. Grant (Rep.) Club with 3,000 members organized. Emmet street changed from Laughlin street, Sept. 22. Episcopal Church Congress, Oct. 20. Nathan D. Wendell elected State treasurer, Nov. 6. Albany Musical Ass'n. Conductor John G. Parkhurst, re-organized. Dr. Jas. H. Armsby Memorial. Washington park, unveiled. Nov. 2S. No. 54. MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. 687 1879-1880. Ex-Prisoners of War Ass'n organized at Albany, December. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 20. Crops in Albany county during season amount to 159,200 bushels of corn, 23,128 bushels of wheat, 158,600 bushels of rye, 17,952 bushels of barley, 787,529 bushels of oats, and 95.137 tons of hay, Dec. 31. 1880. Alonzo B. Cornell becomes Governor, Jan. i. Savings banks of Albany reduce interest to 4%, Jan. i. Population of the city 90,758. Population of New York state 5,084,173. Horses number 9,469 in Albany county. Farms number 3,325 in Albany county. Farms in Albany county valued at $19,898,866. Farm implements in Albany county valued at $1,047,171. Farm products in Albany county valued at $2,783,028. " Game of Fifteen " interesting everyone, January. Republican Club (Hon. Hamilton Harris, Pres.) organized, Jan. 8. Albany Phalanx (Dem. political club) organized. Joel Munsell, noted local historian, collector and publisher of gene- alogies, author of "Annals of Albany" (b. Northfield, Mass., April 14, 1808), dies at Albany, Jan. 15. LeGrand Bancroft (lawyer) dies, Jan. 20. Charles Stewart Parnell given a reception, Jan. 27. Fort Orange Club organized (Erastus Corning, Pres.), Jan. 31. People's Gaslight Co. (incorporated 1872) reincorporated (capital $500,000), Jan. 31, City Hall on Eagle, Pine and Maiden Lane, marble building with a dome, destroyed by fire, , Feb. 10. People's Gas Co. organized, March i. River open to navigation, Government record, March 3. Pest-house, on Alms-house grounds, accepted, March 6. Dr. Edward Reynolds Hun dies, aged 38, March 14. Thomas Worth Olcott (5th Pres. M. & F. Bank) dies, March 23. Dr. Charles A. Robertson, oculist, dies, April i. Mechanics & Farmers' bank elects Dudley Olcott its (6th) presi- dent, April 20. Y. M. C. A. railroad reading-rooms established. May 4. 688 MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. No. 54. 1880. Charter election, Mayor, Michael N. Nolan; Common Council: Peter Snyder, I. Philip J. McCormick, II. William A. Don- ahoe. III. John T. Gorman, IV. John Carey, V. Alichael A. Murphy, VI. James Carlisle, VII. Vacancy, VIII. Michael H. Murray, IX. James A. Fahy, X. William McEwan, XI. Robert Bryce, Jr., XII. Samuel C. Harris, XIII. Theodore D. Smith, Jr., XIV. Joseph McCann, XV. Albert Gallup, XVI. Henry C. Burch, XVII. Albert Gallup (XVI), president. Election, April 13; sworn in. May 4. Steamboat City of Catskill built by Van Loan & Magee, 250x35 X 10 feet, 56x144 in. engine. Steamboat Evans put on Castleton line. Sacred Heart (R. C.) Church dedicated, Alay 23. Thomas Fearey (shoe manufacturer) dies, Jnne 2. Rensselaerwyck Rifle range secured at Bath-on-Hudson, June. Our Lady Help of Christians (R. C.) Church corner stone laid, June 2.J. Tweddle Hall remodeling begun, Jnne 28. Fort Orange Club opened in 1810 house of Samuel Hill, July i. Steamboat Albany of the Hudson River Day Line, running between Albany and New York city, built by Harlan & Hollingsworth Co., Wilmington. Del., one of the handsomest and largest river steamers afloat ; hull of iron ; 325 feet long, breadth of beam 75 feet overall; tonnage, 1,415 gross tons; engine by W. & A. Fletcher Co. with stroke of 12 feet and diameter of cylinder J}^ inches ; steam steering-gear to insure precision ; interior woodwork of carved mahogany, ash and maple ; making 24.06 miles per hour on trial trip, arrives here for the first time, July 3- Mutual Rowing Club wins 6-oared at National regatta. Calvary Baptist Chuch, High and State sts., erected. Gen. James A. Garfield, President, passes through, Aug. 2. Albany Bicycle Club organized, Aug. 24. Salvation Army, Captain D. Ray, commences work in Albany, September. State Fair, the 40th ( N. Martin Curtis, Pres.) held at Albany (7th time). Physicians declare Beaver creek a dangerous nuisance and petition board of health, Sept. 15. School No. 20 completed. Grace (M. E.) Church corner-stone, Ten Broeck St.. laid, Sept. 21. Business Men's Association organized, Oct. 7. < PQ H-I < w H CO J n -? p^ K- O "^J < No. 54. MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. 689 1880-1881. Albany Railway elects John W. McNamara (fifth) president, Oct II. William ~S1. Woollett (architect) dies, Oct. 17. Steamer No. 5 suspended for neglect to report, by Chief McQuade. Nov. 22. River closed to navigation. Government record, Nov. 25. Irish-born in Albany (state census) number 12,575 o^ 9^-57^- Railroad Y. M. C. A. organized. Adelphi Club moves from Green street to No. loi Hudson ave. Fire causes nine deaths in Albany during year. Austin Graves rag-shop, s. w. cor. Arch and Church sts., burned, Dec. 22. Roller skating inaugurated (No. 69 N. Pearl st.), Dec. 25, 1881. Charter officials holding office at this time, for the year — Mayor, Michael N. Nolan ; Common Council : Peter Snyder, I. Philip T. McCormick, II. William A. Donahoe, III. John T. Gor- man, IV. John Carey, V. Michael A. Murphey, VI. James Carlisle, VII. Thomas A. Becket, VIII. Michael H. Murray, IX. James A, Fahy. X. William McEwan, XI. Robert Bryce, Jr., XII. Samuel C. Harris, XIII. Theodore D. Smith, Jr., XIV. Vacancy, XV. Albert Gallup, XVI. Henry C. Burch, XVII. Albert Gallup. (XAT), president. Holding office on. Jan. i. College of Pharmacy (Union university) organized. Seventh Heavy Artillery Ass'n organized. Mercantile Mutual Accident Society of Albany organized. Electricity first illuminates streets, Jan. 14. Gen. and Mrs. U. S. Grant guests of Gov. A. B. Cornell, Jan. 17. Order of United Friends organized in Albany. Anneke Jans case decided by Court of Appeals, February. Physicians a second year declare Beaver creek a menace to health, February 11. John AI. Bailey appointed U. S. Consul at Hamburg. Albany Zouave Cadets (Co. A of 177th N. Y. Vols.) having been Co. A of loth regiment, becomes Co. A of loth Battalion, Feb. 17. 690 MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. No. 54. 1881. Companies A, B, D and K organize as loth Battalion and loth Regiment disbands, Feb. 17. River open to navigation, Government record, March 21. Albany Electric Blnminating Co. ^^ Trinity Place) organized, April. Leland Opera House leased by Mrs. Rosa ]M. Leland, April 7. Eli Perry (ex-mayor) dies. May 17. Steamboat Lotta (Crabtree, California actress) put on New Balti- more line. Alfred Billings Street, poet, (b. Poughkecpsie, Dec. 18, 1811), dies at his residence, n. e. cor. Washington ave. and Dove street, June 2. Y. M. C. A. reorganized (No. 20 N. Pearl st.), June. Mohican Canoe Club organized. Conkling-Platt senatorial case ends, June 10. Rev. Dr. Darling, of 4th Pres. Church, goes to Hamilton College, June 10. Abbey hotel, Kenwood, secured by Plenry Parr. West Shore railroad chartered, June 14. Albany Yacht Club erects house on Hudson island south of Middle bridge, on east side of river, opened, June 15. Albany Electric Illuminating Co. contracts with city, Jnne 21. Savings banks of Albany reduce interest from 4 to 3^'?''', July i. Citizens shocked by the news on the Western Union bulletin board late in the forenoon that President James Abram Garfield (20th President, b. (3range, Ohio, Nov. 19, 1831) had been shot by Charles Jules Guiteau while awaiting departure of his train in the ladies' waiting room of the Pennsylvania depot at Washington, bells tolling, July 2. Dutch Reformed church, " The Middle," Beaver st., abandoned. Hudson avenue (Broadway to Pearl) widened at cost of $74,965. Bath house opened on Columbia st. pier front by Garret J. Benson, July. Dutch Reformed Chuch, ]\Iadison ave. and Swan st., occupied. Captain Willard Glazier discovers source of Mississippi river. Lake Glazier, Minnesota, July 22. Adam Blake, proprietor of Kenmore hotel (b. Albany, April 6, 1830), dies, Sept. 7. George Edgar Oliver made manager of Martin Opera House, September. Martin Opera House becomes Music Hall, September. School No. 8 completed. CITY HALL OF 1881. H. H. Richardson, of Boston, Architect. Cornerstone laid by Masonic fraternity on October 13, 1881 ; cost, $325,000 : tower 202 feet. No. 54. MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. 69L 1881-1882. Board of Public Instruction elects Herman Bendell its (6th) presi- dent (succeeding C. P. Easton of 1875). President Garfield's death at Elberon, N. J., announced at night bv ringing of the church bells, Sept. 19. City Hall corner-stone laid by Masons ceremoniously, Oct. 13. Rev. Dr. James H. Ecob made pastor Second Presbyterian Church. Charles Van Benthuysen (publishing printer; b. Albany, May 6, 1817), dies in New York, Oct. 19. Tenth and Twenty-fifth regiments disbanded. Woman's Exchange organized, Nov. 3. Adelphi Club moves from No. loi Hudson ave. to n. e. cor. Division and S. Pearl streets. Capt. Horatio P. Stacpole made brevet-major, Dec. 31. 1882. Charter officials holding office at this time, (but not as result of election held on this date) are as follows : Mayor, Michael N. Nolan ; Common Council : Peter Snyder, I. Jeremiah Kieley, n. William A. Donahoe, HI. James Lyons, IV. John Carey, V. George W. Beck, VI. James Carlisle, VII. Michael A. Nolan, VIII. Michael H. Murray, IX. James A. Fahy, X. Austin S. Kibbee, XI. Vacancy, XII. Samuel C. Harris. XIII. Charles W. Mead, XIV. James Thornton, XV. Will- iam H. Murray, XVI. Henry C. Burch, XVII. William H. Murray (XVI), president. Jan. i. Greenbush bridge draw operated for first, Jan. 3. River closes to navigation. Government record, Jan. 5. State flag provided for by " an act to establish the original arms, . . . and to provide for the use thereof on the public seals," Chap. 190, Laws of 1882. State flag and flag of the United States ordered displayed from the capitol during hours when Legislature is in session. Senator Wagner and other members killed on way to New York city, Jan. 13. South Ferry street bridge across Hudson opened, Jan. 24. Farewell dinner to Wni. H. McElroy, leaving Journal, Jan. 29. Deadlock in Legislature until Feb. 2. Comet of importance discovered by Charles S. Wells, at Dudley Observatory. Robert Hewson Pruyn, President of National Commercial Bank, late U. S. minister to Japan, dies, Feb. 21. 692 MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. No. 54. 1882. National Commercial bank elects Daniel Manning (sixth) president, because of death of R. H. Pruyn, March 4. River open to navigation, Government record, March 5. Principal M. E. Gates, Albany Academy, elected President of Rut- gers College, March 7. Charter election resulting in contest in court between M. N. Nolan and Dr. John Swinburne, April 11. Open-Door Mission (Mrs. Frederick Townsend, Pres.) incorpo- rated, April 14. Capital City Benefit Ass'n incorporated. West Shore railroad contract let. May, Henry H. Martin elected president of Albany Savings Bank, vice Harmon Pumpelly resigned, May. Steamboat Kaaterskill built by Van Loan & Magee, 1,361 tons, 281 X 38 X 10 feet, 63 X 144 in. engine. Michael Davitt speaks at Music Hall, June 21. Albany Rural Cemetery office (Robert W, Gibson, architect) erected. N. Y. Central freight brakemen return to work (advance conceded), June 30. News of hanging of Charles J. Guiteau (for shooting of President Garfield on July 2, 1881) at Washington jail, interests citizens, June 30. Judge Westbrook hears argument at Kingston on motion of defend- ant in mayoralty case for stay pending appeal to general term, July I. Fire-alarm bell contracted for by fire board with Meneely & Co., West Troy, July 6. Judge Westbrook grants stay of proceedings in mayoralty case until the September term, July 7, Barclay Jermain, lawyer (son of James Barclay Jermain) dies at Cooperstown, July 7, Broadway viaduct work, under Central road's tracks, begun July 7. John W. Viggers of Albany saves from drowning Anson Phelps Stokes, two sons and one seaman (one drowning) from cap- sized yacht Cyphie, Newport bay, July. Mount MacGregor railroad at Saratoga runs first train, address by James Arkell, formerly of the Albany Evening Journal, July 17. Longest ^-in,' rod ever made (263 ft.) rolled at Coming's Iron Works, South Troy, without fiaw, July 17. Public bath at foot of Columbia street opened, July 20. Old oak canal lock gate (1826) used at southern end of basin, raised OFFICE ON MAIN THOROUGHFARE. superintentent's residence. RURAL CEMETERY BUILDINGS. The Office, or Lodge, stands to the west of the main entrance, and was erected in 1882'; Robert W. Gibson, Architect. The Superintendent's Resi- dence was erected in 1899, Marcus T. Reynolds, Architect. Xo. 54. MICHAEL XICHOLAS XOLAX. 693 1882-1883. b\- dredge between Hamilton and Hodge streets and conveyed to Greenbnsh shore, July 22. X. Y. Central freight house (^Columbia, Quay. Orange and \\'ater streets) falls. Aug. 3. \\'illiam Christman kills Charles Trinkley at Alexander and Eliza- beth streets. Aug. 5. Swinburne dispensary treats 300 cases (^60 cases at clynic on Aug. 5th) during" week ending, Aug. 5. \\in. Christman found by Sergt. Buchanan, Aug. 10. Test of incandescent electric lights at the capitol, Aug. 22. Sullivan & Ehlers awarded contract (^ $98,962.81 ) for iron in roof western end of capitol and pavilions. Aug. 2"^. Harmony mills strike of 18 weeks, Cohoes, ends, Aug. 28. Swinburne dispensary treated 1,200 cases during the month, Aug. 31. Fire-alarm bell purchased from Meneely & Co., of West Troy (W'atervliet). (70 in. at mouth, 5052 in. high. 5 i-io in. thick. 7.049 lbs. in weight) hoisted into City Hall tower, Sept. 28. Harmon Pumpelly, President Albany Gaslight Co., the Albany Sav- ings Bank and the Albany Insurance Co., senior warden St. Peter's Church, (b. Salisbury, Conn.. Aug. i, 1795, coming to Albany in 1841) dies at his home, Xo. i Elk st., Sept. 2S<. X'ormal school elects Edward P. W'aterbury its (7th) principal i^ suc- ceeding J. Alden of 1867). Albany Academy elects James Cassety, Ph.D., its ( loth) principal. Cricket popular in Albany. Board of Public Instruction elects Alden Chester its (7th) president (succeeding Herman Bendell of 1881). Lake ave. changed from Perry st. (s. of \\'estern ave.\. Oct. 2. German Young Men's Democratic Club organized. Rainfall exceedmgly Hglit (A. average 3.17 in. per month), 0.27 in., October. Rev. \A'esley Reid Davis becomes minister Madison avenue Re- formed Church. Thin-low \\'eed, founder of Albany Evening Journal, dies, X'ov. 22. River closetl to navigation (Government record). Dec. 4. 1883. Grover Cleveland inaugurated Governor of Xew York State. Jan. i. Charter officials holding office at this time, for the year ; but not elected at this date — Mayor, Michael X'. X'^olan : Common Council: Peter Snvder. 1. leremiah Kielev. TI. \\'illiam A. 694 MICHAEL NICHOLAS NOLAN. No. 54. 1883. Donahoe, III. James Lyons, l\. John Carey, V. George W. Beck, VI. John Greer, VII. Michael A. Nolan, VIII. Michael H. Murray, IX. James A. Fahy, X. Austin S. Kibbee, XI. Patrick McCann, XII. Samuel C. Harris, XIII. Charles W. Mead, XIV. James Thornton, XV. William H. Murray, XVI. William H. Murray (XVI), president. Holding office on, Jan. I. Dudley Observatory (Prof. Lewis Boss) completes an International Zone (Leipsic, No. 14, International Catalogue), 8,241 stars measured and recorded. Electric illumination of the city streets. Hudson River Telephone Co. begins operations. Mme. Albani sings at Music Hall, Jan. 15. Tweddle Hall (theatre), n. w. corner of State and Pearl streets, completely demolished by fire, Hannibal A. Williams, elocution- ist, obliged to abandon entertainment, Jan. 16, George Dawson, proprietor of Albany Evening Journal, dies, Feb. 17 School No. 5 completed. Charles Watson Godard (ex-mayor) dies at Brooklyn, Feb. 19 Albany Evening Union first issued, Feb. 20 Equal Rights Life Ins. Ass'n of Albany chartered, Feb. 28 Dunlop grain elevator on Quay street near Hamilton burned, March 3 Salvini, the elder, plays " The Gladiator," March 5 New York Central's viaduct crossing Broadway excavation begun River open to navigation (Government record), April i John A. McCair appointed State superintendent of insurance, April 23 City Hall completed. May i Safe Deposit & Storage Co. building (s. e. corner Lodge and Maiden Lane) erected. Col. John Mills" remains exhumed from Capitol park and re-interred in Albany Rural cemetery. May 30. Board of Public Instruction elects George B. Hoyt its (8th) presi- dent (succeeding Alden Chester of 1882). Albany Zouave Cadets organized as Old Guard of Co. A, June 7. Mayor Nolan resigns office, the court deciding the Charter election contest of April 11, 1882, in favor of seating Dr. John Swin- burne, and that he was properly mayor, entitled to salary, from the previous time when his term rightfully should have begun, June 24. • • • (See No. 55.) No. 55. May 2, 1882 — May 5, 1884-. Seated Jvine 25, 1883. No. 55. JOHN SWINBURNE. Date of office: May 2, 1882-May 5, 1884. Seated June 25, 1883. Date of election: April 11, 1882. Political party: Republican. Vote: 9,221. Opponent: M. N. Nolan. Political party: Democrat. Fote: 9,339; scattering, 18. (Contested.) Total vote: 18,578. Date of birth: May 30, 1820. Place of birth: Farm on Black river, Lewis county, N. Y. Parents: Peter (S.) and Artemesia. Education: Lowville Academy and Albany Medical College, 1846. Married to: Harriet Judson. Date: 1847. Children: (3) John, Jr., Louis Judson, Frederick. Residence: No. 57 Eagle street. Occupation: Surgeon. Religion: Episcopalian. Date of death: March 28, 1889. Place of death: No. 57 Eagle street. Place of burial: Albany Rural Cemetery. Title: Honorable. Remarks: Chief medical officer on staff of General Rathbone in Civil War, losing by death only 12 of 1,470 in his care. Surgeon-in-Chief of American Ambulance Corps, Franco- Prussian War, 1870-71. Knight of Legion of Honor. Red Cross of Geneva. President Medical Society of Albany County, 1872. Lower bridge (South Ferry street) opened, January 24, 1882. Contested election of April 11, 1882, and awarded salary. School No. 5 completed, 1883. Congress- man. Conducted a free dispensary at No. 57 Eagle street that was attended by multitudes. Successfully reduced fractures by his new extension method, discarding splints and bandages. One of four surgeons to found the Albany Medical College. 55- JOHN SWINBURNE. I 882- I 884. From a painting made from life, and owned in 1904 by the city of Albany. No. 55. JOHN SWINBURNE. 697 1883. (Continued from No. 54.) 1883. John Swinburne, M. D., is sworn as mayor of Albany, the courts having decided that he was properly chosen to the office at the Charter election held on April 11, 1882, when he received ac- cording to the count made at that time 118 less votes as the Republican candidate, than Michael N. Nolan as the Demo- cratic candidate, June 25. West Shore railroad open to Albany from New York, July 9. Decision to close State library on State street, preparatory to tear- ing it down to make room for new Capitol, July 19. Adrian O. Mather (aged 48) dies at Isle of Wight, L. I., July 18. Western Union operatives strike here and elsewhere, July 19. Rev. W. H. Griffith, D. D., rector (Israel) African M. E. Church, dies, July 22. Old Capitol building sold (edifice of 1808), James W. Eaton's bid of $1,000 accepted, July 25. Co. B participates in State camp service near Peekskill (under Capt. Horatio P. Stacpole), July 21-28. Justice Bockes denies writ of mandamus to compel State officers (as ex-officio members) to attend meeting of Union College trustees on Aug. 2nd, in the presidency imbroglio, July 30. John Walter's table oil-cloth factory (No. 338 Central avenue) burned (loss about $12,000), July 31. Deadlock in Union College board of trustees. Potter and Webster factions, Aug. 2. Dr. Jacob Simmons Mosher (b. Coeymans ; March 19, 1834) dies of heart failure in early morning at his home, No. 3 Lancaster street, Aug. 13. S. R. Stoddard, well-known photographer of Glens Falls, passes southward in his canoe Atlantis (18 feet) on a 2,000-mile tour making pictures, Aug. 14. Gen. Robert Lenox Banks, as president State Forestry Association, reports that only 14 of more than 200 islands in Lake George are held by individuals by legal state right, Aug. 16. Western Union operatives' strike (Manager Sabold) ends, Aug. 18. Lord Chief Justice Coleridge of England visits Capitol and park, and is dined at Fort Orange Club, Aug. 28. Beaver creek declared a public nuisance by health board, Aug. 28. State library books removed to new quarters in Capitol, Sept. i. Pons' comet of 1812 attracts attention of local astronomers, September. 698 JOHN SWINBURNE. No. 55. 1883. Jackson Corps go to Boston, Sept. 3. Dexter building (n. e. corner State and Pearl streets ) the scene of a thousand anti-rent cases, remodeled, with entrance changed from State to North Pearl street, Sept. 8. Normal School building (east side of Willett street), plans by Ed- ward Ogden & Son, burned Jan. 8, 1906), begun. Martin Opera House managed by Mrs. Rosa M. Leland, September. Hugh J. Plastings (b. Maguire's Bridge, Fermanagh, Ire., Aug. 20, 1820), the organizer of "The Knickerbocker" newspaper in September, 1843, dies at Monmouth Beach, N. J., Sept. 12. St. Luke's (M. E.) Church corner-stone laid, Sept. 18. Nelson Lyon's large furniture factory. No. 4 Central avenue, burns with a loss of about $30,000, Sept 20. Steamboat Block Island, of Columbia opposition line, inaugurates a passenger rate of 10 cents to New York, Sept. 26, Albany Bicycle Club holds its 2nd large race-meet at Island Park, Sept. 26. Tugboat John S. Robinson's boiler explodes, foot of Westerlo street, killing three men, Sept. 27. Two-cent postage for ist class mail inaugurated, Oct. i. Steamboat Block Island, having tried to introduce lo-cent fare to New York city, abandons Hudson river traffic for New London, Oct. I. Actor Joseph K. Emmet. Sr.'s St. Bernard dog. Bayard, recently purchased for $2,500 (7!/ feet long, 34 inches high, weighing- 175 pounds), dies at New York city, Oct. i. Jay-Eye-See (having made world trotting record of 2:14 on Aug. i6th at Rochester) races against time at Island Park (Director, Phallas, and Trinket at the meet) and scores 2:17, Oct. 4. Loren B. Sessions bribery (1881) case commenced before Judge Osborn in Oyer and Terminer, Oct. 8. Albany Burgesses Corps begins two-day celebration of its semi-cen- tennial by parade on Oct. 8th, dinner at Delavan, Oct. 9. West Shore Railroad open to Syracuse, October. Gates Literary Society of Albany Academy founded, October. Gen. Philip Henry Sheridan (b. Albany, March 6, 1831, and who dies at Nonquitt, Mass., Aug. 5. 1888) resigns from United States army, issuing such as General Orders No. 17, at Chicago, Nov. I. New " Standard Time " adopted, November. Elnathan Sweet elected State engineer and surveyor, Nov. 6. Albany Zouave Cadets organize as " Old Guard," Dec. 6. Y. M. A. celebrates semi-centennial, Dec. 12. CAPITOL OF 1808 IS RAZED. Legislature met at Albany first in City Hall on Broadway ; cornerstone laid Apr. 23, 1806 ; irst used Nov. i, 1808 ; cost, $110,685.42 ; sold to Jas. W. Eaton, contractor for $1,000 on July 15, 1883, and removed by him before Jan. i, 1884. JOHN SWINBURNE. 99 1883-1884. Z ^ • A December. Dec. 31. 1884. Tan. I. Post-office opened in Federal bmku.g, ■ ^ West Shore railroad open to Buifalo Court of Appeals moves mto new Capitol, of Dexter Rive.- open to navigation 'f^-^^^-^^'^^B^L street^ropeneti Boa.d^o"pyc it^ction e,ef Pete. J. FHnn its (9th) pres.dent (succeeding G. B- Hoyt o 1883 • ^^^^^.^ j^^^^^^^^_ John J. Gannon appomted (first) cleric 01 coa tion. School No. 2 completed. a,k,„v State Dairy Commission organized at Albany. island Park Racing Ass'n (E. Corning, pres.) ."corporated^^^^ ^^ Ridgefield Athletic Club organized, '^^_^^ ^ Charter election, receiving 10,098 votes as tne didate- his opponent, John Swinburne, M. D.,, r^c^^^^^S ^.^^^ votes ;st^.e Republican candidate; scattering, 52 -f ^ ' ^^^^^ Tumber of votes'cast, 19,998; Banks' majority over Swrnbume being 250 votes, he is declared elected mayor, April 9. • * * (See No. 53-) No. 56. May 4, 1886— April 30, 1888. * * -Sf Jan. 1, 1896 — Dec. 31, 1897. No. 56. JOHN BOYD THACHER. Date of office: (a) May 4, 1886-Apnl 30, i( (b) January i, 1896-December 31, 1897. Date of election: (a) April 13, 1886. (b) November 5, 1895. Political party: Democrat. Vote: (a) 10,510. (b) 11,030. Opponent: (a) Edward A. Durant, Jr. (aa) Frederick Wheeler. (b) William J. Walker, (bb) Oren E. Wilson. Political party: (a) Republican, (aa) Independent. (b) Republican, (bb) Independent (Rep.). Vote: (a) 8,981. (aa) 55. Scattering, 14. (b) 6,752. (bb) 4,314. Defective, 118. Total vote: (a) 19,560. (b) 22,214. Date of birth: September 11, 1847. Place of birth: Ballston Centre, N. Y. Parents: George Hornell (T.) and Ursula J. Boyd. Education: Williams College, 1869. Married to: Emma Treadwell. Date: Albany, September 11, 1872. Children : None. Residence: No. 5 South Hawk street. Occupation: Author. Religion: Presbyterian. Title: Senator. Remarks: State Senator, 1884-85. School No. 7 completed, 1886. School No. 3 completed, 1887. Bibliophile. Chairman Com- mission of Awards, Columbia Exposition. Author of " Christopher Columbus," " Continent of America," " Cabot- ian Voyages," " Charlecote," " Little Speeches," etc. 56. JOHiN BOYD THACHER. I 886-88; 1896-97. From a photograph made from life in 1900 by Pirie Macdonald, and owned by The Albany Institute. No. 56. JOHN BOYD THACHER. 7^3 1886. (Continued from No. 53.) 1886. John Boyd Thachcr is sworn in as Mayor of Albany, having been chosen at a Charter election held on April 13th, when he re- ceived 10,510 votes as the Democratic candidate; his opponent, Edward A. Durant, Jr., receiving 8,981 votes as the Republican candidate ; Frederick F. Wheeler receiving 55 votes as the Inde- pendent candidate; scattering, 14 votes; total number of votes cast, 19,560; majority, 1,629 votes, May 4. Charter election, Mayor, John Boyd Thacher; Common Council: Frederick W. Klarr, 1. Christopher Fleming, II. William A. •Donahoe, III. James Lyons, IV. James O. Woodward, V. George L. Thomas, VI. Charles E. Van Zandt, VII. Thomas J. Judge, VIII. Michael F. Conners, IX. Frederick Stack- man, X. Howard N. Fuller, XL Arthur F. Corscadden, XII. William H. Bailey, XIII. David J. Norton, XIV. John J. Greagan, XV. Richard Hunter, XVI. Jeremiah Harris, Jr., XVli. Patrick McCann, Galen R. Hitt (at-large) ; Patrick McCann, president. Election, April 13; sworn in, Ua.y 4. School No. 7 completed. Board of Public Instruction elects James M. Ruso its (nth) presi- dent (succeeding O. E. Wilson of 1885). Robert Parker appointed (4th) superintendent of school buildings (succeeding H. J. McDonald of 1885). Steamboat Newburgh, running to Albany, built by Neafie & Levy Co., 1,033 tons, 210 feet long, 32 feet broad, 12 feet deep, 26 X 45 X 36 in. engine, May. Bi-Centennial Loan Exhibition in Chapel of the Albany Academy, with J. Howard King as chairman, opened with ceremonies, _ July 5- Bi-Centennial festivities inaugurated on Sunday by religious ob- servance. Mayor John Boyd Thacher and a band of visiting Caughnawaga Indians attending St. Clary's Church, escorted by Jackson Corps; Bishop Wadhams pontificating. Rev. C. A. Walworth preaching sermon, Parlati's orchestra assisting Prof. Peter Schneider at organ, at 10:40 a. m. In afternoon special services at St. Peter's Church, Bishop Doane preaching. Prof. F. W. Mills at organ playing special composition, "Ancient of Days," words by Bishop Doane, music by Dr. J. Albert Jeffery. and at Reformed Dutch Church on Madison avenue Rev. David D. Demorest, of New Brunswick, preaching. Sunday, July 18. 704 JOHN BOYD THACHER. No. 56. 1886. Bi-Centennial " Educational Day," opening of elaborate city gate erected on Broadway, north of Hudson avenue, by Mayor John Boyd Thacher, announced by Town Crier Jacob D. Pohlman ; parade of trades and manufactures, Col. John S. McEwan, marshal; canoe races; i,ooo school children sing ode written by Hon. Howard N. Fuller ; fireworks and triple band in Washing- ton park. Monday, July 19. Bi-Centennial " Day of All Nations," Parade of Nationalities, Col, M. J. Severence, grand marshal, in morning; regatta on Pleas- ure (Lagoon) Island course in afternoon. Tuesday, July 20. Colored people of Albany plant an elm (Rev. Derrick) in Washing- ton park, July 20. Germans plant memorial oak in Washington park, July 20. Bi-Centennial "Civic Day," Wednesday, July 21. Bi-Centennial Day observed with enthusiasm. Thursday, July 22. Bi-Centennial medal, from which had been struck off 10 gold, 8 silver, 36 bronze gilded with Florentine finish, 1,300 bronze, 11,000 white metal of Y^ in. and in 3-16 in., i copper. 3 bronze, 36 bronze struck up in gold, defaced to prevent further use, July 22. Bi-Centennial " Trades and Manufactures Day," Friday, July 23. Steamboat Daniel Drew burned while resting at Kingston as extra, Aug. 29. B. P. O. E., No. 49, (s. e. cor. vState and Lodge sts.) instituted, Sept. 18. Albany Academy elects Henry Pitt Warren, L. H. D., its (nth) principal. Y. M. C. A. Central building corner-stone laid, Sept. 20. Jermain Hall corner-stone laid, Sept. 20. Ex-President Chester Alan Arthur (b. Fairfield, Vt., Oct. 5, 1830; buried at Albany) dies at No. 123 Lexington ave., New York city, Nov. 18. Albany Historical and Art Society formed, Nov. 24. River closed, Government record, Dec. 4. Empire Curling Club organized. Toboggan chute built by Ridgefield Athletic club, December. Woman's Diocesan League of Albany Episcopal diocese (Mary Parker Coming, Pres.) clears $13,500 year of organizing, December. PRESIDENT CHESTER A. ARTHUR S TOMB. THE ANGEL AT THE SEPULCHRE. RURAL CEMETERY STATUARY. In 1868 wholesale removals were made from cemetery at State and Knox sts., that the grounds might be converted into Washington Park. "Angel at Sepulchre" completed by E. D. Palmer, April 29, 1867 for lot of Gen. Rob't Lenox Banks. Chester Alan Arthur, 21st President, died Nov. 18, 1886 and his sarcophagus attracts universal attention. No. 56. JOHN BOYD THACHER. 705 1887. 1887. Albany railway reduces fares on Pearl street line to 5 cents, Jan. i. Charter ofificials holding office at this time, for the year; but not elected at this date — Mayor, John Boyd Thacher ; Common Council: Frederick W. Klarr, I. Christopher Fleming, II. Vacancy, III. James Lyons, IV. James Otis Woodward, V. George L. Thomas, VI. Charles E. Van Zandt, VII. Thomas J. Judge, VIII. Michael E. Conners, IX. Frederick Stack- man, X. Howard N. Fuller, XI. Arthur F. Corscadden, XII. William H. Bailey, XIII. David J. Norton, XIV. John J. Greagan, XV. Richard Hunter, XVI. Jeremiah Harris, Jr., XVII. Patrick McCann, Galen R. Hitt (at-large) ; Patrick McCann (at-large), president. Holding office on, Jan. i. Rt. Rev. Horatio Potter (6th Bishop of New York Episcopal diocese) for 22 years from 1833 rector of St. Peter's Church (b. Feb. 9, 1802, at LaGrange, N. Y. ; consecrated, Nov. 22, 1854) dies at LaGrange, N. Y., Jan. 2. Winter carnival of parade of bob-sleds and coasting on Madison avenue, band and fireworks, (Beverwyck, 28 feet long, and Brooklyn Bridge, 40 feet), George Hornell Thacher (ex-mayor) dies at St. Augustine, Fla., Feb. 5. Rev. Andrew V. V. Raymond made pastor of Fourth Presbyterian Church, March 10. John Godfrey Saxe, poet of renown, (b. Highgate, Vt., June 2, 1816) dies at Albany, March 31. River open to navigation. Government record, April 6. Ex-President Chester A. Arthur memorial ceremonies. Assembly Chamber, (Att'y-Gen. Benj. H. Brewster and Hon. Chauncey M. Depew orators), April 20. Board of Public Instruction elects William P. Rudd its (12th) presi- dent (succeeding J. M. Ruso of 1886). Steamboat Homer Ramsdell built by T. S. Marvel & Co., 1,181 tons, 240x32x12 feet, 28x52x36 in. engine. Albany County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children incorporated, June 9. John H. Oliver appointed (5th) superintendent of school buildings (succeeding R. Parker of 1866). Tenth battalion participates in state camp service near Peekskill (Lt.-Col. Wm. E. Fitch), July 23-30. yo6 JOHN BOYD THACHER. No. 56. 1887-1888. National Commercial Bank building (No. 40 State st.J rebuilt. School No. 3 completed. Steamboat New York of Hudson River Day Line built by Harlan & Hollingsworth, 1,974 tons, 350X40X 11 feet, 75 x 144 in. en- gine put in commission, July 18. Y. M. C. A. Central building dedicatedj Sept. 22. Jermain Hall dedicated, Sept. 22. Catholic Union organized, Oct. 15. Albany Camera Club organized, Oct. 21. Henry Rusell, largest flour merchant in the state, elected senator, Nov. 8. Michael Rickard appointed State Railroad Commissioner, Nov. 14. River closed to navigation, Government record, Dec. ig. Hon. Daniel Manning, ex-Secretary of Treasury, (b. Aug. 16, 1831 ) dies at Albany, Dec. 24. James H. Manning appointed State Civil Service Commissioner, Dec. 29, George H. Treadwell appointed State civil service commissioner, Dec. 29. 1888. Ice palace of considerable size in design of a fort, erected on the plateau at the corner of Madison and Lake avenues, east of tennis grounds, and dedicated with display of fireworks, Jan. 15. Commencement of the terrible 3-day blizzard, March 11. Water commission recommends additional pumps, April 5. River open to navigation (Government record), April 7. Edward A. Maher chosen Mayor at the Charter election, receiving 11,766 votes as the Democratic candidate; his opponent, John Swinburne, M. D., receiving 9,013 votes as the Republican candidate ; scattering, 22 votes ; whole number of votes cast. 20,801, and Maher's majority over Swinburne being 2.753 votes he is declared elected Mayor of Albany, April 10. Post-office robbed of $3,500 in stamps, April 26. (See No. 57.) "^ O 00 c .„ 0^ 1-. bz) (J be c i£ < o bi3 r^ ,4_, u< n o < o lU (U m o ^ o H -X3 Q 'J~l 'o (LI >> o > U J "o rc a; ^ u o C o< > "' 23 o u p 1 — 1 j; •~ H y. ^ ^ 'A '^ w (vi -5 ~ ^ ^ J— !U ^ i; cr; t^ ^' ~ ^ >> rt rt rt J2 •^1 ^ ■in J3 o o 5 to t3 is^ri ^ <5 ^ rt c ^ o re cq • — rt ,— t H Q .2 No. 56. JOHN BOYD THACHER. 707 1896. (Continued from No. 59.) 1896. John Boyd Thacher sworn as Mayor of Albany a second time, having been chosen at the Charter election held on Nov. 5, 1895, when he received 11,030 votes as the Democratic candidate; his oppo- nent, William J. Walker, receiving 6,752 votes as the Republican candidate; Oren E. Wilson (the mayor in office then) receiving 4,314 votes as the Independent candidate; defective, 118 votes; total number of votes cast, 22,214; Thacher's majority over Walker being 4,278 votes, Jan. I. Charter election, Mayor, John Boyd Thacher; Common Council: Jacob Wirth, Jr., I. Malachi F. Cox, II. John F. Donovan, III. Michael J. Hogan, IV. Theodore P. Bailey, M. D., V. Hugh J. Slattery, \'I. William G. Sheehan, VII. James J. Mckiernan, VIII. John J. Brady, IX. George W. Smith. X. Elmer H. Havens. XI. John E. Corscadden, XII. Fred Ebel, XIII. George H. Stevens, XIV. Joseph A. Clancy, XV. William H. Golden, XVI. Charles A. Pritchard, XVII. John M. Collins, XVIII. John Pauly, XIX. John F. Donovan (III), president. Election, Nov. 5, 1895; sworn in, Jan. i. Soup kitchens, to help the numerous poverty cases, established in many parts of the city, January. Mme. Albani given a large public reception at Albany Club, Feb. 4. Albany Whist Club formed, and unites with Albany Chess Club, February. Albany Railway installs 1,000 h. p. engine and generator of same capacity in S. Pearl street power house, Feb. 27. State dog license, Chap. 448, Laws of 1896. Albany Railway increases capital from $1,500,000 to $2,000,000, March River opened (Government record), April 7 Police signal-box system instituted (in 2nd precinct). May Dog-shelter contributors provide drinking basin before post office Northern Boulevard viaduct erected. May St. Margaret's House (Elk and Hawk streets) erected. May James W. Cox, M. D., most prominent homeopath, dies, June 9 Dr. Thomas Hun, most prominent physician. Dean of Albany Med- ical College, President Albany Academy trustees, founder of the Kappa Alpha at Union, where he graduated in 1825. (b. Albany, Sept. 14, 1808) dies at his home. No. 31 Elk st., June 23. 708 JOHN BOVD THACHER. No. 56. 1896-1897. Steamboat Drew, of People's Line, goes out of commission, June 29. Steamboat Adirondack of People's Line built by John Englis of New York, 3,644 tons, 410x50x12 feet, 81x144 in. engine, first put in commission, leaving New York, June 29 Albany Railway carries 9,511,556 passengers, year ending, June 30 Captain Charles Gould (Co. A, loth Battalion) dies, July 4 A'lasonic temple dedicated, Oct. 26 Ernest J. Aliller (A. Card & Paper Co.) dies, Nov. 2 Albany Boys' Club incorporated, November River closed (Government record), Dec. 16 Gen. John Meredith Read, diplomat, U. S. Consul at Greece, his- torical writer, (b. Philadelphia, Feb. 21, 1837) dies at Paris, Dec. 27 1897. Hon. Frank S. Black, of Troy, becomes Governor, Signal Corps acting as escort in inaugural parade, Jan. i. Charter officials holding office at this time, for the year; but not elected on this date — John Boyd Thacher ; Common Council : Jacob Wirth, L Malachi F. Cox, IL John F. Donovan, IIL '^lichael J. Hogan. IV. Theodore P. Bailey, M. D., V. Hugh J. Slattery, VL William G. Sheehan, VH. James J. McKier- nan VHL John J. Brady, IX. George W. Smith, X. Elmer H. Havens,"xi. 'john E. Corscadden, XII. Fred Ebel, XTII. George H. Stevens, XIV. Joseph A. Clancy, XV. William H. Golden, XVI. Charles A. Pritchard, XVII. John M. Collins, XVIII. John Pauly, XIX. John F. Donovan "(III), president. Holding office on, Jan. i. The estate of Rensselaerwyck, at Rensselaer, 3 miles southeast of Nykerk (Nieuekerke) Holland, whence the A'an Rensselaers came originally, at this date a farm denuded of buildings. Founders & Patriots Society of America ( Albany Chapter) organ- ized, Jan. 8. Death of Herman Russ Palmer, son of Gen. John Palmer, (b. Albany, Sept. 9, 1869), Jan. 22. Beaver park funds further provided by Ciiap. 776, Laws of 1897. Swinton street changed from Maple st., March i. Albany Historical and Art Society purchases No. 176 State st., March 15. River open to navigation (Government record), March 11. \..J '^ p 1 HHW ■ ''"■ "^i^-^ " iii'^F J^^^l ■i 1 '-'"''' ^'^iWUtB^^^^^^^^^B flH'4 L ■f'r-^-Jl!«».T:f 1 iJi ^ l-T No. 56. JOHN BOYD THACHER. 709 1897. First three chemical fire engines purchased, April 3. Albany Country Club constitution adopted, April 3. Home Savings' Bank new building, No. 13 No. Pearl st., opened, April 12. George H. Treadwell appointed manager N. Y. State Women's Relief Corps Home at Oxford, April 23. Steamboat Daniel Drew, of the Hudson River Day Line, goes out of commission. Rensselaer becomes a city. Dr. C. S. Allen (president of village of East Albany, formerly Greenbush) becoming mayor; bill passed, April 23. Mrs. John C. Cruger (nee Euphemia W. Van Rensselaer, third daughter of the Patroon, Stephen Van Rensselaer, who died 1839) dies at Croton, N. Y. April 27. Lutheran Tabernacle Church (Clinton avenue north side, west of Northern Boulevard) erected. State dog license law case decided against by Court of Appeals. Tenth Battalion participates in State camp service near Peekskill (Major H. P. Stacpole), June 26-July 3. Col. Henry T. Sanford (16th Reg't, N. Y. Vols.) dies, July 19. Liederkranz Singing Society incorporated. Johnnie Conway, 5-year-old son of Michael J. Conway, a train despatcher living at No. 99 Colonic St., kidnapped by Joseph M. Hardy (an uncle) and H. G. Blake, and held for ransom of $3,000, Aug. 16. Mayor J. B. Thacher's proclamation offering $500 reward for return of Johnnie Conway and apprehension of kidnappers, Aug. 17. George Theodore Greeker, agent of The Times-Union, discovers the persons who kidnapped Johnnie Conway and gives notification, Aug. 18. John F. Farrell, Police Commissioner Phelan, Captain Riley (private detective) and Matthew Greagan drive out on Schenectady turnpike and secure Johnnie Conway near the Methodist church where he was held in confinement by Warner, 3 a. m., Aug. 19. Erastus Corning (b. Albany, June 16, 1827) striken with apoplexy while driving on Troy road, and dies at home of Dean Sage. Menands ; head of the Corning Iron Works at Troy and Breaker Is., prominent Democrat and philanthropist, with summer home and stock farm at Kenwood, Aug. 30. Police signal boxes placed in the 4th precinct, October. Thomas Jefferson Van Alstyne chosen Mayor of Albany at the Charter election, receiving 8,172 votes as the Democratic candi- date ; his opponent, Selden E. Marvin, receiving 6,014 votes as •lO JOHN EOYD THACHER. No. 56. 1897. the Republican candidate; George H. Stevens receiving 6,012 votes as Independent Municipal Party candidate ; Robert H. IMoore receiving 1,754 votes; George DuBois receiving 108 votes ; blank, etc., 932 votes ; total number of votes cast, 22,992 ; Van Alstyne's majority over Marvin being 2,158 votes he is declared elected mayor, Nov. 2. Rensselaer holds first municipal election and elects Bradford R. Lansing, mayor. Nov. 2. Albany Railway first operates cars into Rensselaer, Nov. 4. Carrie Turner ( wife of John Mack) a graduate of Albany High school, leading lady at Aladison Square theatre. New York, and starring in " Niobe," " Young Mrs. Winthrop " and " Crust of Society." dies, Nov. 13. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 20. • • • (See No. 60!) ?m % "^i^jiSr ' ' ^'^%#' MASONIC TEMPLE. Erected by the fraternity of Albany under Euper\ision of Masonic Hall Association, James Ten Eyck, President; corner-stone laid June 24, 1895; dedicated Oct. 26, 1896; on site of first Lodge House owned by a Masonic Lodge in America (n. w. cor. Maiden Lane and Lodge st.) purchased Oct. 17, 1766, by Bro. Samuel Stringer, and erected in 1768; remaining property of Masters' Lodge until presented to Masonic Hall Ass'n in 1895. No. 57. May 1, 1&88 — May^-, 1890. No. 57. EDWARD AUGUSTIN MAKER. Date of office: May i, 1888-May 4, 1890. Date of election: April 10, 1888. Political party: Democrat. Vote: 11,766. Opponent: John Swinburne, M. D. Political party: Republican. Fote: 9,013 ; scattering, 22. Total vote: 20,801. Date of birth: May 20, 1848. . Place of birth: No. 87 Canal street. Parents: Thomas (M.) and Julia Pendergast. Education: Christian Brothers Academy and X^ormal School. Married to: Jennie M. Tiernan. Date: Albany, July 20, 1869. Children: (8) Thomas A., Edward A.. Julia M. (Geraghty), Jane Tiernan, Robert, Kathleen, Florence, John A. Residence: No. 270 Madison avenue. Occupation: Manager Albany Electric Illuminating Company. Religion: Roman Catholic. Title: Honorable. Remarks: President Union Railway Company, of New York city. General manager Albany Electric Illuminating Company. President South End Bank. School No. i completed. 57. EDWARD AUGUSTIX AIAHER. 1 888- 1 890. From a photograph made from life in 1903 and owned by The Albany Institute. No. 57. EDWARD AUGUSTIN MAKER. 713 1888. (Continued from No. 56.) 1888. Edward Augustin Maher sworn as Mayor of Albany, having been chosen at the Charter election held on April loth, when he received 11,766 votes as the Democratic candidate ; his opponent, John Swinburne, M. D., receiving 9,013 votes as the Republican candidate ; scattering, 22 votes ; total number of votes cast, 20,801 ; Maher's majority over Swinburne being 2,753 votes, May I. Sir Thomas Henry Grattan Esmonde, M. P., received in Senate and Assembly, and honored with a recess for his reception ; speaking at Union Hall in the evening. May i. Charter election. Mayor, Edward A. Maher ; Common Council : Frederick W. Klarr, I. Christopher Fleming, H. John Bowe, in. Thomas Ansbro, IV. Philip Russ, V. James Brennan, VI. Edward F. Duffey, VII. Thomas J. Judge, VIII. ' Michael F. Conners, IX. John J. O'Connor, X. John R. Park, XI. Arthur F. Corscadden, XII. Clifford D. Gregory, XIII. Gar- ret A. Van Allen, XIV. John J. Greagan, XV. James G. Cummings, XVI. Jeremiah Harris, Jr., XVII. John V. L. Pruyn, Louis W. Pratt (at-large) ; John Bowe (HI), president. Election, April 10; sworn in, May i. Arcade proposed from Broadway, through Meads-Duer property to N. Y. Central station. May i. Strike of Knights of Labor employees of breweries. May 5. Emma Abbott sings opera " Martha " at Martin Opera House, May 7. Architects protest against removal of the stone ceiling of Assembly chamber, Mav 7. Roscoe Conkling memorial legislative meeting at Lark street rink. Col. Robert G. Ingersoll, orator, May 9. Legislature adjourns. May 11. Y. M. C. A. secures Riverside park, Greenbush, for evening athletics. May 14. Albany County Bank opens new building (s. e. corner Pearl and State streets). May. Public Market site (Hudson avenue, Grand and Beaver streets), buildings sold at auction by VVm. D. Dickinson, May 24. Sir Thomas LI. G. Esmonde presented with silver casket containing the freedom of the city (as voted by Common Council May 1st), Mav 26. 714 EDWARD AUGUSTIN MAHER. No. 57. 1888. Y. \V. C. A. established ( Xo. 128 State street), May. Memorial Day parade with James ^Macfarlane grand marshal. ^lay 30. Patroon's creek sewer completed by Contractor Patrick ^McCann, June. Hawk street viaduct bill. No. 512. signed by Gov. D. B. Hill, June II. Dog show of good proportions in Academy of !Music (old skating- rink on west side of Lark street), Wm. C. Hudson, president, June 12. Steve Brodie, professional jumper of note since plunging from Brooklyn bridge, starts swimming from this city on June 24th, and beats the world's swimming record between Albany and New York, making it in 6 days and i hour, which is 9 hours superior to Capt. Paul Boyton's record, arriving in good form at New York, June 30. Komuk Club organized and leases the handsome brown-stone resi- dence at s. w. corner of \\'ashington avenue and Dove street, June. Albania Orchestra of expert amateurs organizes for instrumental work. Gen. Philip Henry Sheridan, born at Albany on Alarch 6, 183 1, a graduate of West Point in 1853 ; promoted to captain at out- break of Civil War in 1861 ; appointed quartermaster of the army in southwestern Alissouri, December, 1861 ; colonel of cavalry, May, 1862; brigadier-general of volunteers, July i, 1862; major-general of volunteers, Dec. 31, 1862; commander of cavalry corps of Army of Potomac, April, 1864; brigadier- general in regular army, September, 1864; major-general, Nov. 8, 1864; commander Department of Gulf, 1865-67; commander Department of Missouri, 1867 ; made lieutenant-general and re- signed by his General Orders No. 17 on Nov. i, 1883 ; succeeded Sherman as general-in-chief, 1883 ; rank of General conferred by the Congress in 1888 ; celebrated successful campaign in Shenandoah Valley and his famous victory of Cedar Creek (Sheridan's Ride), Oct. 19, 1864; dies at Nonquit, Mass., Aug. 5. Burns statue (MacPherson bequest) unveiled, Aug. 30. Board of Public Instruction elects Herman W. Lipman its (13th) president (succeeding W. P. Rudd of 1887). Hon. James G. Blaine speaks before 20,000 at Fair Grounds. Troy road. Ji c jz u i3 - O CJ ^ 3 i; (u (J en — u t) rt 3 ^ bb '^ H p u •~ u o o _o Ch "rt O u en ^ rt tj w S £ ^ >> c. n u . . v; rt o -p fc^ri ,< 8 « 'Oi ^~ ui % D ^ 3 H t— 1 '-\ .^ < ^ =:t^ :_ . '5: ■iT! ^ In o o a ^ u u m •" ..c Z U. f-r a Ji S >i .ti CU U u ti d^ o « . t_^ 00 2 ° 1 S > c 'Ec O O "5 ^' '~n g rt ^ 'E -^* 5 J « .^ < c o t) o t« •S bi o "ti c S = 15 o 1- - fli ^ -a c S^ rt u O _c *"■ .i£ >;'S H 11 - ^ ^ c U -5 No. S7- EDWARD AUGUSTIN MAKER. 715 1888-1889. Melvil Dewey appointed secretary of Board of Regents and director of N. Y. State Library, Dec. 12. Albany Club (No. 102 State street) incorporated, Dec. 14. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 14. 1889. Inaugural parade of Gov. D. B. Hill, G. A. R. posts and loth Bat- talion under Lt.-Col. Wm. E. Fitch, and address, Jan. i. Electrocution in force, Jan. i. Savings banks 'of Albany change from 354 to 4fc, Jan. i. Charter officials holding office at this time, for the year; but not elected on this date — Mayor, Edward A. Maher; Common Council: Frederick W. Klarr, I. Christopher Fleming, II. John Bowe, III. Thomas Ansbro, IV. Philip Russ, V. James Brennan, VI. Edward F. Duffey, VII. Michael F. Conners. IX. John J. O'Connor, X. John R. Park, XI. Arthur F. Corscadden, XII. Clififord D. Gregory, XIII. Gar- ret A. Van Allen, XIV. John J. Greagan, XV. James J. Cummings, XVI. Jeremiah Harris, Jr., XVII. John V. L. Pruyn, Louis W. Pratt (at-large), John Bowe (III), president. Holding office on, Jan. i. Police department, to this time, governed by board of 5 commis- sioners. Two women murdered (Mrs. Lottie Lyons, at No. 53 Division street, and " Italian Alice " or Mrs. John Fletcher, at No. 39 Hamilton street). Jan. 2. Decision to organize Park Bank (Grange Sard, pres.), Jan. 7. School No. 4 site (corner Madison avenue and Ontario street) adopted, Jan. 21. Alderman John V. L. Pruyn. Jr., reports to Common Council that the committee has been able to secure but two portraits of mayors for the city's collection, Jan. 21. Albany Female Academy building portico standing on North Pearl street sidewalk discussed by aldermen, contemplating removal as nuisance, Jan. 21. John McEwen resigns as superintendent of penitentiary (to take effect on May ist). Jan. 22. Union College Alumni Association organized at Delavan House, Jan. 22. Assembly ceiling of papier mache or mahogany discussed, Jan. 25. 7l6 EDWARD AUGUSTIN MAKER. No. 57. 1889. John M. Peck, at No. 85 Clinton avenne, is swindled ont of $10,000 by two men claiming- lo be real estate agents named Corning, Jan. 26. Hygeia baths, the first of the kind of any importance in citv, opened at No. 132 State street, Jan. 31. Coasting or "bobbing" carnival races on Madison avenue, illumi- nations and music by band, the long bob Alderman Connor5 killing young Charles O'Hara, Feb. 2 Telephone pay stations inaugurated, Feb. 10 Penitentiary contracts (shoes) terminating, Feb. 15 Albany Kennel Club's 2nd bench-show. Academy of Music, March 5 River open to navigation (Government record), March 20 Dr. John Swinburne, ex-mayor and one of the greatest benefactors ever in Albany, through his free dispensary on Eagle street dies, • March 28 Centennial celebration of mauguration of George Washington takes Governor Hill with State troops and numerous Albanians to New York for parade and ball in Metropolitan Opera House, April 30. J.Iohawk & Hudson River Humane Society assumed as its changed title of Albany County Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children, May 3. Charles Gottlieb Fasoldt, prominent manufacturing jeweler, cele- brated widely as maker of finest chronometers, inventor of the hairspring stud screw regulator, maker of the first 8-day watch. awarded medals for ruling 1,000,000 lines to the inch on glass to test microscopic lenses, (b. Dresden, Ger., 1818) dies. May 13. Johnstown, Pa., flood sufferers aided by city subscription, forwarded by the mayor, the Conemaugh valley dam bursting and 15,000 drowning, May 31. Death of Harriet Langdon Roberts Parker, wife of Judge Amasa J. Parker, (third dau. of Edmund Roberts, b. Portsmouth, N. H., March 28, 1814; married there, Aug. 27, 1834) dies at the family home. No. 143 Washington ave., June 27. Albany Railway carries 4,047.473 passengers, year ending June 30. Savings banks of Albany increase interest from T,y2 to 4f/, July i. School No. I completed. Tenth Battalion participates in State camp service near Peekskill (Lt.-Col. Wm. E. Fitch), July 6-13, Florence Ouinlan miu'dcred in stable on Herkimer street by James P. Grace, July 31. Pi 'o ^- CO -r >> rt O ^ .5 ii CQ o c ^O- 57- EDWARD AUGUSTIN MAHER. 717 1889. Samuel H. Ransom, stove manufacturer (b. Lyme, Conn., 1818), ^'^^' Aug. 17. I.eland Opera House opened with " Lost in New York," inaugurat- ing cheap rates, and known as H. R. Jacobs' Opera House, . _ Aug. 19. Llectnc car on Troy cS: Lansingburg hue runs from latter place to city line of Troy, ^^g. 27 Gen. James M. Warner appointed post-master (succeedin"- Dr. D V O'Leary), "^ Aug.' 28' John M. Bailey appointed surveyor of the port, Aug. 28. Ldward P. Waterbury (principal of N. Y. State Normal School) ,, .^'«^S' Aug. 28. /. iVL A. deeds building (s. w corner North Pearl and Steuben streets) for $70,000 to D. & H. Railroad Company, Aug. 30. Normal College elects William J. Milne its (ist) president, (succeed- ing Principal of Normal School E. P. Waterbury of 1882). Armory stonework commenced (Washington avenue), Sept. i. Albany Theatre opened as Proctor's Albany Theatre,' Sept." 2." Maj. Charles H. Gaus one of team winning silver bowl trophy at the large rifle match at Sea Girt, N. J., September. Board of Public Instruction elects Charles H. Gaus its (14th) presi- dent (succeeding PL W. Lipman of 1888). State Fair, the 49th (James Wood, pres.) held at Albany (9th and last time). P. J. AIcArdle junk-shop (iron and rags). Arch and Church streets, burned and several killed. Sept 9' Hon. M. N. Nolan's steeple-chaser, Bourke Cockran (in 9 years won 44 of 123 starts ; $21,732 in prizes), killed at Island Park course, Sept. 10. Samuel N. Bacon (head of Bacon, Stickney & Co., Dean and Ex- change streets, cofifee and spices), born at Harvard Jan ^5 1829, dies, 'Sept. Ti; Electric cars of Watervliet Turnpike & Railroad Co. given a trial, Sept. 13. Assembly ceiling (material) case before Grand Jury. Sept. 13. Albany Railway granted franchise to erect trolley poles, Sept. 16. Assembly ceiling case closed, ' ' ggpt.' 19' Electric cars (8 motors) given a trial from West Troy bridge to barns at North Albany on Watervliet Turnpike & Railroad line (Wm. B. Van Rensselaer, pres.), Monday, Sept -73 Electric cars of W. T. & R. R. Co. run (five cars) regularly from North Albany through West Troy (Watervliet), Sept 26 Bradford R. Wood, lawyer (b. Westport, Conn., Sept. 30 1800)" ^'^^' ^S'ept. 26 7l8 EUVVARl) AUGUSTIN MAUER. No. 57. 1889-1890. Armory corner-stone (Washington avenue and Lark street) laid by Grand Master James Ten liyck and Grand Lodge of Masons ; address by Gov. J). \'>. Hill; Col. Wm. E. Fitch commanding niihtary, Sept. 26. Harmanus iilecckcr Hall opened, addresses by liisho]) Wm. C. Doane, Judge Amasa J. Parker and Chancellor Henry K. Pier- son; poem by Wm. D. Morange ; ode by Irving Urowne set to music by Geo. E. Oliver, with i'^arlati's orchestra ; anthem, Haydn's "Achieved is the Glorious Work," (Fuller & Wheeler, architects), Oct. 9. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 4. West End Gun Club organized, Dec. 6. Albany Railway elects Robert C. l*ruyn ( sixth j president, Dec. 6. James A. Gray, piano manufacturer (b. in New York, 1815), dies, Dec. 9. John A. vSleicher ai)pointc(l State civil service connnissioner, Dec. 16. 1890. Population of y\lbany 94,(^23. Population of the State (New York State) 5,997,853. Police department (by White charter) placed in l)ci)artmcnt of Pul)lic Safety, under a coniiuissioner. Board of Public Instruction elects Michael F. Walsh its (15th) pres- ident (succeeding C. H. Gaus of 1889). Col. Robert G. IngersoU the orator at State Bar Association's annual meeting, Harmanus Bleecker Hall, Jan. 21. Beaver park provided for by Chap. 449, Laws of 1890. Normal School cliartered as a college, Maixh 13. River opened (Cjovernment record), March 19. Albany Police Beneficiary Association organized, March 26. Edmund Lewis Judson (ex-mayor) dies, April 8. Albany Railway operates its first electric car, from Ouail street car- house to Broadway and back, Sunday, April 28. James Hilton Manning chosen mayor of All)any at the Charter elec- tion, receiving 13,552 votes as the Democratic candidate; his op- ponent, Howard N. Fuller, receiving 6,316 votes as the Repub- lican candidate ; scattering, 8 votes ; total number of votes cast, 19,876; Manning's majority over Fuller being 7,236 votes he is declared elected mayor of Albany, April 8. • • • (See No. 58.) H on u U 0^ « '-' c o -r; " c 1—1 V ;i K^ c 3 O H 1 — . ■V c CO UJ O (^ ^2 t/i H CD K Ui w bO s -< Q > (LI c n o o XI r-t -n C , ^ 5 Si C c O rt ^ <^ _S) 4.* On *c/) 00 OJ ^~* Q wT ro . 13 bD > o 3 c u < 4) "Z. T3 OJ C/2 1-1 1 rt '^ o ^ c I« >> o S < O o < > ' ' _aj Pd >^
  • . ^ > I fl> 8 -c •" c c cC 5 O) ■- V- n .4-1 OJ .2 y rt . -:^ ^ '^ _,• « -a , c a; . rt *^ Q a, w U S O og .. u-S c O C3S :S > ^ ^^ P • ^ 5 c/i g g ^' i .d _^ < ^ Ho-' No. 60. THOMAS JEFFERSON VAN ALSTYNE. 74 1 1898. Newspapers issue extras on receipt of cable that U. S. Minister to Spain Stewart L. Woodford had received his passports, and in danger of his Hfe is departing- from Madrid, and announcing thus a state of war between the United States and Spain, April 21. Crowds thronged before the bulletin-board of the Evening Journal on State street, next door east of James street, all day, raise a shout when the intelligence appears that the first shot has been fired, being in the capture by the United States of a sailing vessel, the Bucha Hura, with cargo of lumber off Florida, by the Nashville, April 22. Activity at the State armory in recruiting, physical examinations being conducted day and night, April 25. The First Regiment organized preparatory to entering the United States service in war against Spain, Companies A, B, C and D of the loth Battalion becoming Companies A, B, C and D of the new regiment, April 28. Citizens joyously surprised by cabled news that Commodore George Dewey entered Manila bay aboard the U^ S. S. Cruiser Olympia despite the fact that the entrance to the harbor had been mined, May I. The four companies that had enlisted in the ist Provisional Regi- ment leave the armory shortly after 9 a. m., and marching down Washington avenue and State street, northward along Broad- way between crowds reaching to the centre of the street, take special train for Hempstead, Long Island, to await orders at Camp Black, so named in honor of the Governor, May 2. Dr. Joseph Albert Lintner, State entomologist and an officer for years of The Albany Institute (b. Schoharie, Feb. 8, 1822), dies at Rome, Italy, whither he had gone for his failing health, ' May 5. Elm-tree beetle seriously ravages the leaves, and wagon with exten- sion hose employed in checking it, many trees throughout the city bearing an odd appearance encircled by bands of cotton, May 10. Steamboat Onteora built by T. S. Marvel & Co. ; 1,213 tons, 250 feet long, 35 feet broad, 10 feet deep, 55 x 120 in. engine. May 15. Albany Country Club's house on Great Western Turnpike, north side of road and about four miles from City Hall, entirely re- constructed and enlarged, half-timbered style, Marcus T. Reynolds, architect. May 20. Spanish war revenue stamps in use here, but only limited quantities to be had, headquarters at First National Bank, June 17. 74^ THOMAS JEFFERSOX VAX ALSTYXE. No. 6o. 1898. Dog tax or license ( city ordinance ) passed on 20th, approved, June 22. Albany Hospital corner-stone laid by Grand Lodge of Masons, New Scotland avenue, June it,. Lieut. Thomas A. \\'ansboro, 7th U. S. Infantry, shot through the heart at the battle of El Canev, Cuba, and dies heroicallv, 'July I- George Edward Graham, of Albany, witnesses the sinking of Ad- miral Cervera's Spanish fleet on leaving Santiago harbor, while standing on the bridge of the Brooklyn beside Rear-Admiral W. S. Schley, ' July 3. Corporal William Keeshan, 4th Infantry, killed at Santiago, July. Albany Savings Bank ( w. corner State and Chapel streets) sold to Albany county for $100,000. Captain ^Marvin B. Harriott raises fund to purchase delicacies for the Albany soldiers at Ft. Wads worth, July 4. Henry Martindale Kidd (lawyer) goes down on French liner La Bourgoyne in collision with the Cromartyshire, going eastward. 60 miles south o£/Sable island, in dense fog, 5 a. m., July 4. First N. Y. ^'ols. ( Cos. A. B, C, D and G ) leave Ft. Wadsworth for San Francisco, July 7 Captain John B. Rodman, located at Governor's Island ( formerly recruiting officer at Albanv). member Fort Orange Club, dies July 7 Albany soldiers reach Chicago, July 9 Legislature convenes in extraordinary session to consider funds for Spanish war necessities and soldier vote provision, Jvily 1 1 Albany \Miist Club team leads in opening bout of national congress Boston, July 12 Albany soldiers arrive at San Francisco, July 13 "Albany Rangers" (organized by Col. J. Meredith Read) parade July 13 Santiago surrender creates enthusiasm. 2 130 p. m., Thursday, July 14. Legislature passes bill appropriating $500,000 to provide State fund for military expense in connection with war with Spain. July 14. Albany Rangers learn that Governor Black will not accept their ser- vices ; that T. Estrada Pahuer of the Cuban junta cannot pro- perly allow them to go from the L'nited States to join Cuban forces and that Secretary of ^^'ar Russell A. Alger telegraphs there is no authority of law to allow mustering into L'. S. army, and forthwith disband under Commander J. Meredith Read, July 15. o rt a < "5) 'r'nt "ffl Xi °^< ■' 00 sr" o U) be -t: O > o <^ ^^ < ~ 0\ C 00 b/D •^ '" >. s S IT) 1> C/) o ^ -n c o ^ ii J <" O .^ 00 ^ c; f^ f^ •^ - ii Q rt a OJ oc 1 — . O r^ ^ c 'C o n O u _ fr OJ i^ LT ;:;; X o :3 >1 rS r^N •:^ — u — c , V a; _:: c/j a ;/j ^_. u ^ o U ^ ^ y rt -1-' " t/1 c '^ :/ tn c > •-5 y o ■;: No. 60. THOMAS JEFFERSON VAN ALSTYNE. 743 1898. Legislature adjourns extraordinary session, July i6- Capitol park improved, following- its use by Capitol stone-cutters, July. Albany soldiers, ist N. Y. Vols., leave San Francisco on transports Lakme and Cbarles G. Nelson, for Honolulu, July. Myron H. Rooker (president of Press Co.) dies, July I9- Centennial Hall of St. Mary's Church erected. Prof. James Hall, State geologist (b. Hingham, Mass., Sept. 12, 181 1 ) long a resident on property used for Beaver park, dies at Echo Lake, Bethlehem, N. H., Aug. 7- Capitol front approach beautified by bronze electroliers, Aug. 8. Albany Press Club occupies quarters on State opposite Chapel street, Aug. 10. Protocol with Spain (signed by U. Cambon, French Ambassador, and William R. Day, Secretary of State) creates enthusiastic excitement 4:23 p. m., Aug. 12. St Mary's school (Centennial building) corner-stone laid by Bishop Burke, Aug. 14. L O. O. F. Grand Lodge convenes in Odd Fellows' hall, Aug. 16. Albanians in bad wreck at Chester, on B. & A. road, Aug. 19. War correspondent of Associated Press, George Edward Graham. who was on the bridge of the U. S. cruiser Brooklyn during the destruction of Admiral Cervera's fleet at Santiago on July 3rd, arrives at Albany and is welcomed by a band and newspaper Alicr 22 men, ^"f • ^- Fly-wheel of T Henry Dumarv's stone-crusher plant. Fourth ave., bursts, Aug 22. Rev. E. A. Watkins (reviler during sojourn here of Roman Catholic faith) suddenly absconds, Aug. 25. Capitol electroliers about the main approach first lighted, Aug. 29. Delavan hotel closed forever, to make room for new railroad station, Sept. 2. New York regiments ordered by War Department to Washington to muster out, Sept. 5. Troy City railway motor-car and D. & H. train collision, 18 killed, at crossing in Cohoes, Sept. 5. Gen. Franklin Townsend (ex-mayor) dies, Sept. 11. Empire Theatre (No. 102 State street) opened by Maude Adams in "The Little Minister," Sept. 12. Pump station at new filter plant construction commenced, Sept. 19. Mayor names a committee to secure fund to purchase handsome sword for Lieut.-Commander Daniel A. Delehanty of the Suwa- nee. Sept. 24. 744 THOMAS JEFFERSON VAN ALSTYNE. No. 6o. 1898-1899. Albany Rangers presented with souvenir medals by their former commander, J. Meredith Read, Sept. 24. Harmanus Bleecker Hall, after remodeling, opened for inspection, Sept. 28. New York Central railroad station work commenced, October. Knox street viaduct erected. William B. Page, head of Isaiah Page & Son, iron castings foundry on east side of Liberty street (b. Ghent, N. Y.), aged 49 years, dies, Oct. 30. Judge John T. McDonough (Rep.) elected State secretary, and Curtis N. Douglas (Dem.) State senator, Nov. 8. Lieut. Thomas A. Wansboro's body (arriving at Albany Nov. 9) placed in Co. B's quarters at armory, and military funeral held at St. Mary's Church, burial in St. Agnes' Cemetery, Nov. 10. Captain Charles Dwight Sigsbee (captain of U. S. S. Maine) and Commander Daniel Delahanty (commander of the Suwanee) given reception by the Albany Historical and Art Society, Nov. 13. Vacation Llome at Canaan-Four-Corners, N. Y., purchased by Fresh Air Guild. Hon. Flamilton Harris' wife dies, Dec. 11. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 11. Tenth Battalion arrives home from Honolulu, H. L, Dec. 21. 1899. Theodore Roosevelt inaugurated Governor of New York, Jan. i. Charter officials holding office at this time, for the year ; liut not elected on this date — Mayor, Thomas J. \^an Alstyiie ; Com- mon Council: John A. R. Kapps, L IMalachi F. Cox, H. John Franey, HL Thomas D. Fitzgerald, lY. Justus F. Davis, V. Ellsworth Carr, VL Henry F. Tammany, VH. James J. McKiernan, VHI. John F. Fitzgerald, IX. Robert FI. ]\lcCor- mic, Jr., X. Daniel Casey, XL John E. Corscadden, XH. Fred Ebel, XHL Frank N. Sisson, XI\'. Joseph A. Clancy, XV. William H. Golden, XVI. Charles A. Pritchard, XVII. Frank Naukam, XVIII. John Pauly, XIX. John E. Corscad- den (XII), president. Holding office on, Jan. i. Entomological Society organized, Ephraim P. h^clt, pres., January. The United States Protected Cruiser All^any launched, being the first warship of the U. S. Navy when in the possession of the s ^ o -o P3 03 o o (U T) .ti c >. w w s p^ v^ •n -^ -^ a «j o -a > > O ^ ii s I— I bO bjo C c a. (u ^ > S P ^ t3 -id c S e rrt -o hfl C 3 C ^ m U u lU > rt (/) No. 60. THOMAS JEFFERSON VAN ALSTYNE. 745 1899. United States Government ever launched abroad, and chris- tened by the wife of Lt. J. C. Colwell, Naval Attache to the U. S. Embassy in London, Jan. 14. Death of Gen. Selden Erastus Marvin, the Republican nominee for Mayor Nov. 2, 1897, while on a visit to New York; born at Jamestown, N. Y., on Aug. 20, 1835 ; Paymaster-General and then, in 1865, Adjutant-General under Gov. R. H. Fenton ; participated two and a half years in the Civil War; secretary and treasurer many years of the Corning Iron Works at So. Troy ; president of Hudson River Telephone Co., and treas- urer of 2^ religious funds, with residence No. 344 State st., Jan. 19. Howard J. Rogers appointed director Educational and Social Economy exhibition for the United States commission to the 1900 Paris Exposition, January. Harry Hamilton Bender appointed State superintendent of public buildings, Feb. i. William Manning Van Heusen, lawyer, son of Theodore V. Van Heusen (b. Albany, May 5, 1865) dies at Pasadena, Cal., Feb. 3. Simon W. Rosendale appointed commissioner State Board of Chari- ties, - March 8. River opened to navigation (Government record), March 24. Mrs. Erastus Corning (Miss Mary Parker, daughter of Judge A. J. Parker), philanthropist and president of Women's Diocesan League, dies at No. 23 Elk street, Easter, April 2. George Rogers Howell, State Archivist, an author, and secretary of The Albany Institute (b. Southampton, N. Y., June 15, 1833) dies at Albany, April 5. Charles H. Turner appointed manager of N. Y. State Reformatory' for Women, Bedford, April 6. Albany Academy receives fund of $50,000 from Frederick P. Olcott, April. Marion Randolph (superintendent of Rural Cemetery), dies, April 21. Albany Rural Cemetery appoints James A. Burns (6th) superin- tendent. Albany Rural Cemetery superintendent's residence (Marcus T. Reynolds, architect) erected. Albany Savings Bank (s. w. corner North Pearl street and Maiden Lane) completed and first occupied, April 25. Ten Eyck Hotel opened. May 8. Albany City Hospital's first patient. May 15. Hudson River Line changed to Hudson River Day Line. 746 THOMAS JEFFERSON VAN ALSTYNE. No. 60. 1899. Emory Worth Howell (coal) dies, Aug. 3. Water filtration plant on Troy road in operation, September. Joseph Smith, author ( b. Charleston, S. C, March 9, 1832), dies at Saratoga, Sept. 14. United Traction Co.'s office, Uroadway and Columbia (Marcus T. Reynolds, architect), erected. James Henry Blessing chosen Mayor of Albany at the Charter elec- tion, receiving 12,364 votes as the Republican candidate; his opponent, Thomas Jefferson Van Alstyne (the present mayor), receiving 9,995 votes as the Democratic candidate ; Oren E. Wilson (ex-mayor) receiving ^^2 votes as an independent can- didate; others, 157 votes; total number of votes cast, 22,848; Blessing's majority over Van Alstyne being 2,369 votes, he is declared elected, Nov. 7. Dr. Charles Edmund Jones, a prominent homeopathic physician and formerly president of the State 1 lomeopathic Society, dies at the Albany City Hospital following an operation upon him, Dec. I. Mavor \'an Alstyne appoints a Sheridan Memorial committee, Dec. 18. Steamboat Lotta that had run for about twenty years from Albany to New Baltimore, sold to parties at Charleston, S. C. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 23. First Automobile brought to Albany, by Archibald M. Dederick, Dec. 26. Albany Railway and the Tro\' Street Railway consolidated, becom- ing the Linited Traction Company, Dec. 30. (See No. 61.) CRUISER ALBANY LAUNCHED. This was the first warship of the U. S. Navy, when owned by this Government to be launched abroad. Christened at Newcastle-on- Tync, Eng., Jan. 14, 1S99, by wife of Lieut. J. C. Cohvell. Arma- ment : 10 hvc-incli, R. F. G ; 10 three-pounders, S. A. G.; 2 one- pounders, R. F. G.; 2 of .,-0 Cal. ant. g., and i three-inch field gun ; protective deck l '4. in. at center, y'z in. on slopes ; hull sheathed 2,Yz in. tea!:. (Photograph by Cuyler Reynolds.) !«ai 5 ^1 < 00 -^ i-J ^ "> PL, TT S o H 03 OJ ■'I 03 q=: -c c "= r^ =i o No. 61. 3am^0 i^mv^ MtBsxn^. Jan. 1. 1900 — Dec. 31, 190L No. 6i. JAMES HENRY BLESSING. Date of office: January i, 1900-December 31, 1901. Date of election: November 7, 1899. Political party: Republican. Vote: 12.364. Opponent: Thomas J. Van Alstyne. Political party: Democrat. Vote: 9.995; O. E. Wilson, 332; others, 157. Total vote: ^ 22.848. Date of birth: September 14, 1837. Place of birth: French's Mills, Albany county, N. Y. Parents: Frederick I. (B.) and Lucinda Smith. Edncation: Common school. Married to: (a) Martha Hutson (d. July 17, 1866). (b) Mary Gilson. Date: (a) Albany, September 15, 1857. (b) Pittsfield, November 9, 1870. Children: (a) (2) Lucinda, Martha (Backus), d. Jan. 5, 1907. (b) None. Residence: No. 107 Eagle street. Occupation: Inventor and manufacturer of steam traps. Religion: Baptist. Title: Llonorable. Remarks: Supervisor (fifth ward), 1854-55. President of Board of Supervisors, 1855. Construction department. New York Navy Yard, 1862-64. Under Commodore Porter as 3d Assistant Engineer, March 29, 1864. First Mayor under the new charter. School No. 12 completed, 1901, and erection of first public bath. 6i. JA^IES HENRY BLESSING. 1900-igoi. From a pliotngraph made from life in 1899 by The Albany Art Union, and owned bv The Albany Institute. No. 6l. JAMES HENRY BLESSING. 749 190 0. (Continued from No. 60.) 1900. James Henry Blessmg is sworn as the Mayor of Albany, having been chosen to succeed Mayor Thomas Jefferson Van Alstyne at the Charter election held on Nov. 7, 1899, when he received 12,364 votes as tlie Republican candidate; his opponent, Thomas J. Van Alstyne, receiving 9,995 votes as the Democratic can- didate ; Oren E. Wilson, receiving 332 votes as the independent or business men's candidate; others, 157 votes; total number of votes cast, 22,848; Blessing's majority over Van Alstyne being 2,369 votes, Jan. i. Charter election. Mayor, James Henry Blessing; Common Council: Joseph Besch, I. John W. Griggs, H. John Franey, HI. John J. Howe, IV. Peter H. Reynolds, V. Ellsworth Carr, VI. William H. Hines, VII. Thomas F. Martin, VIII. oseph F. Leddy, IX. Peter Keeler, X. John Andrews, XI. James Malov, XII. Newton W. Thompson, XIII. Frank N. Sisson, XIV.' Edmund A. Walsh, XV. Frederick J. Barends, XVI. Richard Hughes, XVII. Frank Naukam, XVIII. Mathias E. Keim, XIX. Thomas D. Fitzgerald, president. Election, Nov. 7, 1899; sworn in, Jan. i. Opening of the new century generally observed by special exercises in many of the churches, the firing of cannon, ringing of the chimes of St. Peter's Church and the Cathedral of the Immacu- late Conception and a " midnight mass " celebrated before an immense audience in the latter by Bishop Burke. Jan. i. Population of the city at this time 94,151; of the county, 165,571 ; of the State, 7,268,894; of the United States, 75,568,686, the latter figure including 91,219 persons in the military and nava! service of the United States (civilian employees, etc.) stationed abroad, not credited to any state or territory, Jan. i. Savings banks change rate of interest from 4% to 3^%, Jan. i. Albany city real estate valued at $59,790,690; personal at $9,237,194; rate of taxation per $1,000 fixed at $21.40, Jan. i. Maiden Lane bridge of the Hudson River Bridge Co. (N. Y. Cen- tral road) reconstruction completed by Pencoyd Bridge Co., ex- cepting the draw, Jan. 3. Legislature convenes and listens to the reading of Gov. Roswell P. Flower's " Message," Jan. 3. Howard P. Foster becomes chief of police, Jan. 6. 750 JAMES HENRY I5LESS1NG No. 6l. 1900. Chamber of Commerce org-anized (Joel W. r)ur(lick, pres. ; Wm. B. Jones, sec.j, Jan. g- Albany Society dinner held at Dclmonico's in New York, Louis Stern elected president, Jan. lo- Statue of Dr. Edward Austin Sheldon, " Father of Normal School System," executed by Geo. Francis Brines in bronze, unveiled in rotunda of Senate stairway of Capitol, Jan. ii. Methodists hold jubilee in First M. E. Church, having freed all churches of denomination in Albany of debt, Jan. ii. Edwin S. Sterry, photographer, dies, Jan. 14. State Bar Association annual meeting;. Justice Brown of U. S. Su- preme Court delivering address, " Liberty of the Press," in Assembly chamber, followed by reception at Fort Orange Club, Jan. 1 6. L^nited Traction Co.'s Troy division motor-men and conductors go out on strike, Jan. 22. Gorge at Cedar Hill becomes solid and alarming, Jan. 27. Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons holds 103rd convocation at Temple, Feb. 6. Freshet (greatest in 43 years), 20 feet above normal level, causing great suffering in southern section of city, Feb. 14. John D. Whish appointed secretary of State Forest, Fish and Game Commission. Capt. Angus McD. Shoemaker, Civil war hero and school com- missioner (born Albany, April 9, 1844), dies, Feb. 27. Rev. William D. Prall assumes rectorship of St. Paul's (Epis.) Church, i\Iarch 2. Y. M. A. accepts tender of " Pruyn Library," March 5. St. Agnes' Cemetery acquires 75 acres, estate of late Wm. Howard .Hart, south of its property, March 9. Sloan's hotel, famous hostelry on Western turnpike, destroyed by fire, March 14. Rabbi Isaac IMayer Wise, author ( b. Stcingrub, Bohemia, March 28, 1819.) Dies at Cincinnati, March 26. Painters and Decorators Union No. 201 institute strike, April i. River open to navigation, (Government record), April 2. Legislat.ire adjourns, April 6. Maj. Frank Rockwell Palmer, loth Battalion, city comptroller, (mili- tary funeral), dies, April 21. Thomas D. Coleman, ])roprictor of brewery, dies, April 23. Albany Trust Co. organized, May i. Carpenters and Plumbers unions start building trades strike, ]\tay 2. ii ;£ - 6 -^ n rt d "^ .2 0\ ■£ "^ £ ^ ii ^ o aj o CO ^ •5 ' -a o O J rt ^ __, (U O 4-1 U (_| rn ^ 1—4 t^ ON CO 00 I^'q 5j_ JAMES HEXRV BLESSING. 751 Mai. James L. Hyatt elected commander Tenth Battalion. May 5- T ast sDrine snow of season. • sSmtoat'Alice May put on fne Xew Ealt.more hne. ^^^^ ^^ T p<;t killino- frost of the season, , v . c " • ^^, m m I^titu.e unites with th. Albany Historical and Art boae^, electing Judge William L. Learned .ts pres.dent, and^Cnxkr Reynolds its curator, - Children's playground in Beaver pork uiaugurated, Ma> i^. Canal stree? changed to Sheridan avenue, ordn.ance passed.^^^^ ^^^ Tohn Blackburn, coal dealer, dies. • 1 - 1 t nhnr^alorv Geor-e AI Bender, donor of Bender Bacteriological Laborator> vjcuij,c *i. May 24. Becate'of the war w.th Spain (declared on ^pr. ^ijM) the U S Protected Crusier Albany which had been bottght trom Braza for 51,205,000 on March 16, 1898. could not be placed hrcommission unt.l the dose and -^^?o^^S^^ '^ itT^^ t ship-vards of the Armstrong Co. " .^ "^■<=^^";.:°",^5 "J °\t„ ,, iSqo was not placed in commission until this da) when a crw from this country was put aboard. Her complement ?on Ss of 19 officers and 3^9 men; her speed 20.5 knots by one enline of 7.400 h.p, : her armament consists of 10 five- Th R F G,: 10 three-pounders, S, A. G. ; 2 one-pounders_ R F. G.; 2 of .30 Cal. automatic guns, and , three-inch field -9- AlbrRal;^i;opens its new o..ce buildmg - the -rthw^t c.rn^ of Broadway and Columbia sts.. Marcus T. Re>nold... ar^chitect, X. Y. Central Railroad reconstructs viaduct over X. ^^^^^;;"^>'' ^, Toshua Howard King, president Albany ^Y'^^l^^eX^loT' ■ National Bank and Albany Ins. Co., dies. Ridgefield. Conn..^^ Crane-root worm ravages fruit. Col Tames Hendrick, insurance, with office for m:,ny years „, the M^,^ inf or Marble Pillar Building at northwest corner o Broadway and State streets, dies at his country-seat. ^ Fo.it Grove. Slingerlands, ^^^ ^^ "Rpv Georo"e P. Wilson dies, . . /* ^' . AHss Mat Ida Douw of Albany, confined during the critically senous -Boxer- uprising with the United States legation at Pekm, having been besieged for several weeks by the riotous Qunese, is liberated with the others, ' •'-• ^ 752 JAMES HENRY BLESSING. No. 6l. 1900. Louis Menand. noted horticulturist and author, the orii^inal founder of Menands, three miles north of Albany, (b. Buroundy, France, on Aug". 2, 1807), dies at his home at Menands, Aiiff. 15- Albany Savings Bank elects Wm. Bayard Van Rensselaer its (8th) president to succeed J. Howard King who died on July i8th, having been its president since 1886, Aug. 15. Tenth Battalion participates in field service under Mai. Horatio P. Stacpole. Aug. 18-25. Peter Gantz, w^ith the 7th Heavy Artillery during the Civil War, dies, Aug. 25. Garrett Vander Veer, a popular young man, the son of Dr. Albert Vander Veer, dies, Aug. 27. Hon. William J. Morgan, State Comptroller and for about a score of years the deputy (b. Canada, 1840) dies r.t his home. No, I Maine ave. (burial at Buffalo), Sept. 5. Stephen White Whitney, many years connected with the Albany Gas Light Co., the basso of St. Peter's Church, dies at his home. No. 487 State st.. aged 78 years. Sept 11. Lansing Merchant's widow, Isabella, dies at her home. No 30 Willett St., Sept. 11. Cantine Tremper for a great many years connected with the office of the Albany Railway (b. Kingston, N. Y., on May 26, 1882), dies at his home. No. 695 Broadway, Sept. 14. Rev. Clarence Arnold Walworth, pastor of St. Mary's Church and author, (b. Plattsburg on IMay 30, 1820), dies at the s. w. cornei of Chapel and Steuben streets, parish house, Sept. 19. Edward Ogden, architect of the Albany High School, the N. Y, State Normal College on cast side of Willett near Madison ave., of Hotel Kenmore (erected in 1878) and several other prominent buildings, ( b. Sandgate. Eng.) aged y^i years, dies at his home. No. 252 Hamilton street, Sept. 21. New York State National Bank elects Vice-Pres. Ledyard Cogswell its (6th) president, to succeed J. Howard King, deceased. Sept. 27. John D. Parsons, publisher of prominence (Weed & Parsons on north side of Columbia, r.ext n. w. corner of Broadway) born at New Baltimore on April 2", 1815, dies at his home, No. 8 Hall Place, Sept. 28. Coal famine caused by strike in the anthracite region of Pennsyl- vania, and a consequent doubling of prices, .Sept. 30. C O •a o tfl Si 5 o . o ^ s ^ o X •f o o u >^ < < w u < Pi •5 o ^ U 0^ O ••s P-, m No. 6l. JAMES HENRY BLESSING. 753 1900. Captain Robert Davidson, of the 2nd Precinct police force, a rnost popular citizen and for 41 years connected vyith the Depart- ment, dies of heart faihire at his desk of the 2nd PoHce Precinct station in the n. w. corner of the first floor of the city bvr.lding on So. Pearl street, Oct. 9. " Count " Max Shinburn, a notorious bank robber, sometime resi- dent of the Alaiden Lane jail released from CHnton prison, Oct. 9. Albany County Bar Association incorporated, Oct. 12. Racquette Club organized, with building- on Yates, west of Lexing- ton ave. Earliest killing frost of the season, Oct. 20. Large Republican parade and address by Postmaster-General Charles Emory Smith, formerly of Albany editorial work, at Harmanus Bleecker Hall, Oct. 29. Earliest autumn snow of the season, Nov. 9. Miss Lina Bartlett Ditson. class poet of the Albany High School and the author of three historical novels (b. Albany, Tan. 15, 1879) dies at New York cfty, Nov. 14. Albion Ransom, famous as a manufacturer of stO\^es, (b. Albany) aged '/'J years, dies suddenly in New York city, Nov. 15. John H. Rathbone, son of Gen. John F. Rathbone, dies at Oxnard, Cal., ' Nov. 16. James T. Story, prominent brewer and Mason, (b. Albany, Feb. 19, 1836) dies. Nov. 18. Curfew law advised by action of Ministerial Association. Nov. 19. Ex-Alderman John E. Corscadden becomes superintendent of the Albany Penitentiary, Dec. i. River closed to navigation, (Government record), Dec. 10. Miss Ellen Campbell dies, leaving $50,000 to Albany Hospital, and sums to other charities, Dec. 11. Hon. Hamilton Harris, prominent lawyer, attorney for the N. Y. Central railroad at Albany, one of the original new Capitol commissioners, (b. Preble. Cortland co., N. Y., May i, 1820) dies at his residence. No. 723 Broadway, Dec. 14. Michael Mead, captain of detective force, dies, December. N. Y. Central Railroad's new station formally opened, Dec. 17. Albany Hospital learns of bequest of $50,000 from Miss Ellen Campbell of this city, recently deceased, Dec. 22. Rev. Fidelis AI. A'oight, former pastor of Our Lady of Angels' Church, (b. Indiana, Feb. 21, 1855) dies at Trenton, N. J., Dec. 26. 754 JAMES HENRY BLESSING. No. 6l. 1900-1901. First automobile owned in ihis city (steam motor-power) arrives for Archibald M. Dederick Dec. 2b. Geological Society of America's 13th convention held in the Albany Academy building, Dec 27. Capt. Edgar V. Denison, connected many years with the R. G. Dun Mercantile agency and a military enthusiast, (b. BrDokfield, N. Y., 1850) dies at his home on Leonard Place, Dec. 30. 1901. Benjamin B. Odell, Jr., of New burgh, becomes Governor, Jan. i. Charter officials holding office at this time, for the year; but not elected on this date — Mayor, James H. Blessing; Common Council : Joseph Besch, I. John W. Griggs, II. John Franey, III. John J. Howe, IV. Peter H. Reynolds, V. Ellsworth Carr, VI. William H. Hines, VII. Thomas F. Martin, VIII. Joseph F. Leddy, IX. Peter Keeler, X. John Andrews, XI. James Maloy, XII. Newton W. Thompson XIII. Frank N. Sisson, XIV. Edmund A. Walsh, XV. Frederick J. Barends, XVI. Richard Hughes, XVII. Frank Naukam, XVIII. Mathias E. Keim, XIX. Thomas D. Fitzgerald, president. Holding office on, Jan. i. Albany & Hudson electric road, by third rail system, opened^, January. Albany Society banquet at Delinonico's, New York, electing Louis Stern president, Jan. 9. Rev. David L. Schwartz, former rector ot Grace Episcopal Church, dies at Lakewood, N. J., Jan. 14. Third Brigade Signal Corps disbands and Troop B organizes, Jan. 15. Stephen Van Rensselaer Town>-end, attorney, moved since starting practice to New York city, the son of the late Howard Town- send, M. D., of No. 15 Elk St., dies at Hempstead, L. I., Jan. 15. Chinese Minister to the United States Wu Ting-fang, LL.D. Har- vard graduate, guest of the N. Y. State Bar Association, a visitor to the city and entertained at the home of Col. William G. Rice (n. e. corner of Washington ave. and Dove st.) delivers an address at Harmanus Bleecker Hall in the evening, Jan. 15. Bishop Doane addresses the N. Y. State Bar Association on " Uni- form Divorce Laws," Jan. 17. & O ^ o S; — ii ra CO -o ° rt be >,:2 ^ u •^u H S=a < r/) O S Q O pti < O P^ c a. J ^' i> rook!yn, January Albany Racquet Club buys land for house on north side of Yates St., west of Lexington ave., Jan. 30 State Medical Society banquet at Hotel Ten Eyck, Jan. 30 Harry H. Bender re-appointed State superintendent of public build- ings, Feb. I. John Henry Farrell, proprietor of The Times-Union, which papers he consolidated in 1891, and previously a member of the Press Co., as a proprietor and editor issuing the Press & Knicker- bocker in 1877, (b. Kenwood, Sept. 1, 1839) dies at his home, No. 598 Madison ave., and is widely mourned as one of the city's energetic men who have its interests at heart, Feb. 2. Queen Victoria memorial service conducted in All Saints' Cathedral by Bishop Doane and Dean Wilford L. Robbins, at hour of funeral, Feb. 2. Mrs. Celestia Sigsbee, mother of Admiral Charles Dwight Sigsbee (captain of the U. S. S. Maine when blown up at Havana, Feb. 15, 1898), who was born to her at No. 20 Spring st., this city, (Jan. 16. 1845), dies at Otogo, N. Y., Feb. 4. John Marshall centennial ceremonies in Assembly Chamber by the N. Y. State Bar Association, Hon. John F. Dillon, of New York, orator, Feb. 4. Robert C. Pruyn, President of the National Comn.ercial Bank and of the Albany Railway, chosen Regent at joint session of Legislature, Feb. 13. Ex-Gov. Alonzo B. Cornell visits Governor Odell at the executive chamber, the last time before his death, Feb. 14. Ten Broeck B. Mayell, rubber goods, dies, Feb. 19. Governor Odell gives the annual public evening reception, Feb. 18. 75^ JAMES HENRY BLESSING. No. 6l. 1901. Bath annexation ( to Rensselaer ) l^ill passed by Senate, Feb. 19. Livingston avenue railroad bridge of the N. Y. Central road offered for sale at $40,000 to prospective organizers of a -traffic bridge, Feb. 20. "White Rats" (theatrical vaudeville union) strike spreads to Al- bany and creates trouble in the city, Feb. 22. Mark Twain (Samuel L. Clemens) speaks for the Society of Osteo- paths in the Assembly (Thamber, crowding the immense room, on " Should Osteopaths Practice without Passing State Medical Examination ? " Feb. 27. Sections of History and Literature organized by The Albany In- stitute and Historical and Art Society, reviving working de- partments of the old Listitute, lectures and collections, Feb. 27. Maude Gonne, Irish agitator, speaks at the Empire theatre, Feb. 28. Three Syrians asphyxiated by gas on Grand street, ]\ larch 2. Benjamin Gillespy Myers, brother of John G. Mye:s (b. Saugerties, 1829), dies at his home on Clinton ave., March 5. Bath annexation (to Rensselaer) bill passed by Assembly, March 6. Citizens shocked by the news posted on bulletin board? announcing the death of ex-President Benjamin Harrison, arbitrator of the Venezuela-Great Britain dispute, at his Indianapolis home of affection of the lungs, ■ ]\[arch 13. Solomon Strasser, wholesale tobacco at n. w. corner of Green and Beaver streets (site of the tavern at v.hich George Washington was banquetted), dies, ]\Iarch 17. Gen. John Finlay Rathbone, head of the mammoth stove manufac- turing plant here, Detroit and Chicago, president of the xA.Ibany Academy board of trustees many years, president of the AI- Dany Orphan Asylum, president of the Albany Rural Cemetery ana ])resident of ^Mutual Fire Insurance Co., a cHy benetactor and philanthropist (b. All)any, Oct. 9, 1819). dies at his hand- some residence, No. 119 Wjishington avenue. March 20. University Club organized in the Albany Academy, planning to oc- cupy the Matthew Hale residence. No. 99 Washington avenue (north side, second door west of Swan street) electing Russell M. Johnston its first president, March 21. River open before southern pan of the city, March 21. Rev. Clarence Arnold Walworth memori^d service ( 'ate p.astor of St. Alary's) at Odd I-Vllows' Hall on Lodge -trcet. Bishop Doane the speaker. March 21. Pruyn library transferred to the Young Men's Association manage- ment, by deed, . :\Iarch 25. PRUYN LIBRARY. The John Van Schaick Lansing Pruyn Free Library was erected by his family in 1901, on the site of house in which he was born in 1811 (s. e. cor. No. Pearl st. and Clinton ave.) ; accepted by the Y. M. A., March 25, 1901, transferred by deed March 28th, and dedicated April 8, 1901. (From photograph by Gustave Lorey.) No. 6l. .TAMES HENRY BLESSING. 757 1901. River clear of ice before the city, March 23. Old New York Central station, Montgomery and Steuben streets, lowered to the ground, giving way foi new edifice. March 25. Robert Strain, oils (b. Albany, Nov. 30, 1832), dies at Philadelphia, March 28. River open to navigation, City of Troy coming up, March 29. Albany & Hudson electric road runs cars into Albany. March 30. Ex-Congressman Martin H. Glynn appointed by President McKin- ley a St. Louis Exposition commissioner for the government, March 30. Hon. Neil Gilmoin- (b. Paisley, Scotland, Jan. 8, 1840) dies, March 31. Adirondack of People's Line leaves New York on first '■rip of season, April I. Latest spring snow of the season, April i. Governor Odell signs Senator Ellis' bill changing the color of the New York State flag from buff to blue, the former having proved hard to distinguish from that of the quarantine, April 3. Bath-on-Hudson annexed to Rensselaer, Bradford R. Lansing be- coming the first mayor, April 5. Marcellus B. Waters, general passenger agent of People's Line (b. Duxbury, Mass., 1831) dies at Troy, April 5. Several smallpox cases on Schuyler street cause alarm, April 5. The Mary Parker Corning organ, most costly in the city, dedicated at All Saints Cathedral, April 6. Pruyn Library at southeast corner of North Pearl street and Clinton avenue, dedicated, Mayor Blessing delivering the oration, April 8. Hon. Francis H. Woods, former postmaster, surrogate, assembly- man, judge (b. Albany, 1843), dies at his home, No. 46 Willett street, April 8. Rev. Francis N. Stuart (b. Albany, Feb. 8, 1865), while pastor ot St. Mary's Church at Coxsackie, dies, ivpril 9. Latest killing frost of the season, April 13. Jared PL Armatage dies, April 22. Water over the docks, extending to Dean street, caused by rain, April 22. Hon. Martin H. Glynn elected vice-president by the U. S. Commis- sion of the St. Louis Exposition of 1903, April. Legislature adjourns, April 23. 758 JAMES HENRY BLESSING. No. 6l. 1901. Dana park., at Madison and Delaware avenue, opened and dedicated by an address by Mayor Blessing, in presence of the Dana Natural History Society (organized iii 1868), Arbor Day, May 3. Fruit trees in bloom. May 5. Strike inaugurated by United Traction Co. employees on differing over a new schedule presented the first of the month. May 7. No electric cars in five cities operated in by United Traction Co., and lines of carryalls in common service. May 8. Co. A of Albany Academy Cadets wins guidon drill at aimory, May 10. Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society elect? Judge Wm. L. Learned its president a second time, at annual meeting, May 13. Tenth Batallion and Third Signal Corps ordered out by the Gov- ernor to preserve order and they patrol the routes of the trac- tion company on most of the streets. May 14. Albany Law School of Union LTniversity celebrates semi-centennial, May 15. Local troops preserving order reinforced by the 23rd Regiment of Brooklyn, which camps at Beverwyck park on Washington avenue beyond Quail street, a squad of soldiers riding on each car, and the city placed under martial law. May 15. A^iolent mob attacks a motor car, hurling missiles at it, as it passes a few hundred feet north of Columliia street on Broadway. Lieutenant Wilson and companions of the 23rd Brooklyn regi- ment fire and fatally wound E. LeRoy Smith, standing upon the steps of his store, and William M. Walsh, at 4:30 p. m., May 16. Death of E. LeRoy Smith at 4 a. m., shot in riot on previous after- noon, head of the wholesale shoe manufacturing firm of Smith & Herrick, and president of Albany \\'hist Club. May 17. Close of the Albany Railway strike. May 19. Robert Geer, wholesale salt, with office on the pier to the south of State street basin bridge, treasurer of Home for Incurables and a member of Temple Lodge, dies at his home. No. 33 Pine avenue, south. May 22. Fatal collision, rounding curve, on Albany & Hudson electric road. May 26. Steamer New York of Hudson River Day Line first to arrive. May 28. No. 6l. JAMES HENRY BLESSING. 759 1901. Acors Rathbiin. dealer for many years in hardwood lumbers in the Lumber District and man of wealth (b. Aug. 28, 1827), dies at his home, No. 28 Willett street. May 31. Col. Horatio Potter Stacpole. commander of the loth Battalion, dies at his home. No. 240 Hudson avenue, June 3. Albany Academy 88th commencement, Cuyler W. Lush valedicto- rian, June 13. Jeremiah Jewell Van Bramer, prominent veteran fireman (b. Al- bany), aged 76 years, dies, June 13. William H. Johnson, president of The Argus Co. (b. Syracuse. Jan. 20, 1834), dies at his home, No. 121 Lancaster street, June 28. American Express Co. occupies new building on site of old depot on Montgomery street, July 8. Rev. Dr. Ezra R. Huntington, pastor of Third Presbyterian Church, dies at Auburn, July 14. Frederick A. Schififerdecker, Jr., supervisor (b. Albany, July 19, i860), dies, July 14. commodore Alfred Van Santvoord, president of Hudson River Day Line, a former Albanian (b. Utica, 1819), dies aboard his yacht Clermont at the mouth of the Hudson, July 20. Body of Commodore Van Santvoord arrives at this city on board his yacht and burial takes place at the Rural Cemetery, July 24. Hudson River Day Line elects Eben E. Olcott president, July. Hon. James Webster Eaton, ex-district-attorney (b. Albany, May 14, 1856), dies at his home on Madison avenue (opposite the park lake), Aug. i. Steamer Drew, for many years a most popular night boat of the People's Line, towed to Raritan Bay to be broken up for junk,^ Aug. 14. Howard J. Rogers appointed chief of the Department of Education for the St. Louis, 1903, Exposition, Aug. 15. Samuel Anable dies, prominent citizen, Aug. 15. J. Townsend Lansing collection of paintings brought by him from Europe and valued at more than $25,000, presented by him to the Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society, August. Clifford A. Hand, lawyer, brother of the late Samuel H. Hand and a prominent member of the State Bar Association, dies at his home in Elizabethtown, N. Y., Aug. 17. School No. 12, Robin street, completed. Richard Varick De Witt, ex-fire commissioner and insurance agent (b. Albany, 1832), dies at his home. No. 202 Lancaster street, Aug. 21. 760 JAMES HENRY BLESSING. No. 61. 1901. Steamboat Ticonderoga, popular steamer for many years and familiar to thousands of Albanians, burns at the northern end of Lake George, Captain White, Aug. 29. Labor Day, showers in the morning, Sept. 2. Gen. James G. Grindlay, who captured two Confederate flags at Five Forks, Va., while commanding the Fifth Army Corps under General Sheridan, and who was awarded a medal of honor by the U. S. Government, elected president of the Army of the Potomac Association, Gettysburg, . September. Albanians shocked by the news of the shooting at 4:10 p. m. of President William McKinley, while in the Temple of Music on the Pan-American Exposition grounds at Buffalo. At 4 :25 o'clock he is conve3'ed by the Exposition ambulance to the Emergency hospital at the West Amherst street gate to the grounds, where Dr. Mann performs the operation of washing the intestines and extracting one bullet from the right chest ; at 7 130 p. m. he is conveyed through the grounds, the exposi- tion having closed purposely at sundown, to the home of John G. Milburn, president of the Exposition, Delaware avenue, where he meets his wife, and despatches sent all over the country, Sept. 6. President McKinley shows increased strength, and city bulletin boards the scene of a crowd day and night here, Sept. 9. The President able to read the newspapers, the wound having been washed with antiseptics, but temperature at 102 degrees, Sept. 10. The New York Automobile Club on its tour, having left New York yesterday, arrives at Albany, Sept. 10. New York Automobile Club departs for Herkimer at 8 a. m. from Empire rink, Sept. 11. George W. Carpenter, one of the city's early engineers, and in charge of the waterworks half a century previous (b. Albany, May 17, 1811), dies at Fisher's Island, Long Island Sound, Sept. 12. The President's case becomes grave, being unconscious most of the morning, and through the afternoon is kept alive only by medic- inal means. At 7 p. m. he faintly tells his sorrowing wife, " It's His way," and breathes a farewell, ere at 9 p. m. he sinks into an unconscious condition that continues to the end. Sept. 13. President William McKinley's death at 2:15 a. m., at the home of John G. Milburn at Buffalo, announced by the papers in the morning, which bear dark borders, and citizens begin draping their houses and places of business, Sept. 14. No. 6l. JAMES HENRY BLESSING. 761 1901. No house without its mourning drapery in respect for Presideril McKinley. The main portico, as well as the north and south entrances to the Capitol completely concealed by heavy folds of black cloth, the Post Office, Albany Club, County building. City Hall and Albany Railway building sombrously decorated with elaborate artistic skill. The remains, on the previous day foliowing the ii o'clock private service at the Milburn resi- dence, taken to Buffalo's City Hall, where, until up. m. 90,000 pass about the casket, and to-day the funeral train left that city at 8:30 a. m., to be respectfully greeted along almost the entire route of 420 miles to Washington, the bells tolling in the cities as the train passes through. It arrives at Washington at 8:40 p. m., and the casket is placed in the " East Room " of the White House, Sept. 16. The McKinley cortege leaves the White House in the morning, passes along Pennsylvania avenue to the Capitol, where the State funeral is held at 11 a. m. in the rotunda ; the special funeral train starting for his late home in Canton, Ohio, at 8 p. m., Sept. 17. The Albany Law School, where McKinley was a student and gradu- ated, is a special object of attention and comment. The cortege reaches Canton at 11 :58 a. m., the casket conveyed to the court house, and at night rests in his old home, Sept. 17. Services held in a great many Albany churches at the hour of the McKinley funeral, with special discourses and solemn music. I :30 p. m., and at this hour practically all machinery in the city ceases to move, the boats in the river and trains pausing for a space, Sept. 19. Considerable interest taken in the trial of McKinley's assassin in Buffalo's city hall, defended by Justices Lewis and Titus before Judge Truman C. White, commenced this day, Sept. 23. Schenectady Railway runs cars into Albany for first time, Sept. 23. McKinley's assassin found guilty of murder, Sept. 24. John W. Wallace, city editor of Press & Knickerbocker (b. Albany, Jan. 29, 1872), dies, Sept. 25. McKinley's assassin sentenced to be electrocuted and is taken same day to Auburn, Sept. 26. Democratic city convention held in the City Hall, nominating Gen. Amasa J. Parker for mayor, Sept. 27. Albany Baseball team wins State League pennant, Wm. Ouinlan, owner, September. Filtration plant statistical record started, Sept. 28 762 JAMES HENRY BLESSING. No. 61. 1901. Completion of laying asphalt pavement on Madison avenne, a second time, Sept. 29. Miss Alida G. Radcliff, formerly of No. 708 Broadway, dies at her home in Rhineclifife, N. Y. (burial in Rural Cemetery), Oct. 3. Rev. Jacob Henry Enders, pastor of City Mission, dies at Fort Hunter, N. Y., Oct, 6. Republican city convention nominates Major Charles H. Gaus for mayor, Oct. 9. Annual parade of police and fire departments, ■ Oct. 9. Trevor McC. Leutze, many years a most popular attache of the State engineer's office (head of a division) and of the Camera Club (b. Duesseldorf, Germany), dies at his home. No. ii Pine avenue, North, Oct. 14. Stanwix Gansevoort, with the U. S. Navy in the Mexican War (b. Albany), aged 80 years, dies at South Glens Falls, Oct. 16. Earliest killing frost of the season, Oct. 20. Many Albanians attend Yale's bi-centennial celebration, Oct. 20. George Edward Graham, having been on the bridge of the U. S. S. Brooklyn with Admiral Winfield Scott Schley during the sink- ing of the Spanish fleet at Santiago on July 3, 1898, he testifies before the naval court at Annapolis in the determination of the action of that oflicer at that time as being proper under the cir- cumstances, the case being brought about by the partisans of Admiral Schley and Admiral Sampson of the New York, Oct. 21. Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society secures former City Hospital building at the southeast corner of Eagle and Howard streets. Completion of the re-laying of asphalt on Madison avenue. Oct. 23. Electrocution of Leon F. Czolgosz, assassin of President McKinley on Sept. 6th, conducted at Auburn at 7:12 a. m., and burial in quicklime and acids at 2 o'clock, Oct. 29. Park settees removed, plank board-walk laid. King Fountain cov- ered in Washington park, Nov. i. Earliest autumn snow of the season, Nov. 5. ]\Iajor Charles H. Gaus elected the Mayor of Albany at the Charter election, receiving 13,027 votes as the Republican candidate; his opponent. Gen. Amasa J. Parker, receiving 10,673 votes as the Democratic candidate; others, 123 votes; blank and void, 463 votes ; total number of votes cast, 24,286 ; Gaus' majority over Parker being 2,354 votes, he is declared elected Mayor of Albany, Nov. 5. Ice for 15 feet from borders of Washington Park lake, Nov. 15. No. 6l. JAMES HENRY BLESSING, 763 1901. Yale football team, with Charles Gould of Albany captain, beats Princeton, lo-o, at New Haven, Nov. 16. Local McKinley Memorial committee organizes, Nov. 26. First and unusually early sleighing, Nov. 26. Ice on park lake and canal bears a person ; much snow on ground. Nov. 28. Steamboat Adirondack makes last trip southward, and river closes to navigation (Government record), Nov, 30. John Gillespy Myers, head of the large dry goods firm of that name, an exceptionally good business man, honest and kindly, a bene- factor of many institutions and of unostentatious charity, dies at his handsome home at the southeast corner of State and Swan streets, Dec. i. Merchants' National Bank, located on the ground floor of Tweddle Building at the n. w. corner South Pearl and State streets, ab- sorbed by National Commercial Bank, Dec. 14. (See No. 62.) No. 62. Olliarbs i|ntrg ^aua. Jan. 1, 1902 — Dec. 31. 1903. Jan. 1, 1904 — Dec. 31. 1905. Jan. 1, 1906 — No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. Date of office: (a) January i, 1902-December 31, 1903. (b) January i, 1904-December 31, 1905. (c) January i, 1906- Date of election: (a) November 5, 1901. (b) November 3, 1903. (c) November 7, 1905. Political party: Republican. Vote: (a) 13,027. (b) 14,175- (c) 15,915- Opponent: (a) Amasa J. Parker. (b) William Gorham Rice. (c) William ]. Wansboro. Political party: Democrat. Vote: (a) 10,673; others, 123; blank and void, 463. (b) 9,612; others, 232; blank and void, 557. (c) 7.379; others, 11 ; blank and void, 513. Total vote: (a) 24,286. (b) 24,576. (c) 23,818. Date of birth: September i, 1840. Place of birth: Zanesville, Ohio. Parents: John H. (G.) and Agnes Boehm. Education: Public schools. Married to: Bertha Kirchner. Date: August 15, 1866. Children: Edward Leo, Edith Agnes (Russell). Residence: No. 185 Lark street. Occupation: Pharmacist. Religion: Episcopalian. Title: Major. Remarks: Appointed Inspector Rifle Practice, Third Brigade (Major), October, 1886. Appointed on Governor Black's staff. Assistant Inspector Small Arms (Colonel). Commis- sioned Colonel by brevet, 1901, under new code. School No. 9 completed, 1903. School Commissioner and Street Com- missioner. • 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 1902-IQ05. From a photograph made from life in 1903 by Lloyd, and owned by The Albany Institute. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 767 1902. (Continued from No. 6i.) 1902. Major Charles Henry Gaus sworn as the Mayor of Albany, suc- ceeding James Henry Blessing", having been chosen at the Charter election held on Nov. 5, 1901, when he received 13,027 votes as the Republican candidate ; his opponent, Gen. Amsaa J. Parker, receiving 9,612 votes as the Democratic candidate; others receiving 123 votes; blank and void, 463 votes; total number of votes cast, 24,286 ; Gaus' majority over Parker being 2,354 votes, Jan. i. Charter election, Mayor, Charles H. Gaus ; Common Council : Joseph Besch, I. John W. Griggs, II. John Franey, HI. Thomas F. Nolan, IV. Peter H. Reynolds, V. Herbert E. Bugden, VI. William H. Hines, VII. Thomas F. Martin, VIII. Joseph F. Leddy, IX. A/[ichael McAulifife, X. Tames E. Borthwick, XI. James Maloy, XII. George Holler, XTII. Edmund A. Walsh, XV. Frederick J. Barends, XVI. Richard Hughes, XVII. William C. Garland, XVIII. Frank Naukam, XIX. William P. Hoyland, president. Election, Nov. 5, 1901 ; sworn in, Jan. i. The Albany City Bank, doing business at No. 47 State street, ab- sorbed by the National Commercial Bank, Jan. 2. Thomas W. Stevens appointed harbor master for port of Albany, Jan. 8. Edward A. Callahan of " The Country Gentleman " staff appointed a member of the board of control of State Agricultural Experi- ment Station at Geneva, N. Y., Jan. 9. Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society establishes a branch in Schenectady, by Act of Legislature. Dog license (State Law, Chap. 294) passed. Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society consolidates with the Rensselaer County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, of Troy (chartered April 5, 1893) by Act of Legis- lature. Howard K. Payn, continuing the store of B. Payn's Sons' Tobacco Co., at s. e. corner of Maiden Lane and James streets, dies at Albany Hospital, Feb. 8. President McKinley memorial exercise held in the Assembly Chamber, March 4. Prince Henry of Prussia, younger brother of Emperor William of Germany, a guest of the city, arriving in tlie morning is es- 768 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1902. corted in the mayor's carriage along Broadway from the depot, up State street and to the City Hall by military bodies and the city officers in many carriages, as well as the special reception committee of prominent citizens, March 7. Senator McEwan's bill to remove bodies from St. John's Cemetery on Delaware avenue, March 12. River open to navigation (Government record), March 18. Andrew Carnegie offers the city $150,000 for a library building, April 13. Calvin W. Edwards becomes the first president of the Board of Education upon its organization as the successor of the Board of Public Instruction, April 17. Western Union telegraph office opens at No. 53 State street, April 25. Albany City Savings Institution's new building opened at No. 100 State street, Marcus T. Reynolds, architect. May i. Francis Bret Harte, noted novelist (b. Albany, on Aug. 25, 1839), and who had spent much of his life in California, writer of " The Luck of Roaring Camp," and the poem, " The Heathen Chinee," both of which became extremely popular, dies at Cam- berley, Eng., May 5. The Aurania Club, formed for social pleasure among the prominent men of Pine Hills section of the city who desire a club-house in their vicinity, located on Allen street, incorporated. May 7. Steamboat Ursula put on the Catskill line. May. Latest killing frost of the season, May 11. Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society elects Judge William L. Learned its president a third time, at annual meeting, May 12. Mrs. Olivia Campbell-Shafer, soloist at times at First Dutch Re- formed and Fourth Presbyterian Churches and Temple Beth Enieth (b. Perth, Can.), dies at her home. No. 750 Broadway, May 17. Entomological Society becomes a section of the Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society, May. Latest spring snow of the season. May 28. Mrs. Delphine Marie Pumpelly Read, a former Albanian and widow of Gen. John Meredith Read, former L"^. S. minister to Greece, dies at her home in Paris, No. 128 rue La Boetie, May 29. Harry Hamilton Bender appointed State fiscal supervisor, June 9. Rev. John Hanlon, pastor of St. Vincent's Church, dies, June 12. Dean Sage, wealthy lumber merchant of the Albany Lumber Dis- trict, a writer of books on angling, and possessing the most complete collection of books on angling in America, and owner FREEDOM OF ALBANY. It was engrossed on parchment and presented to Prince Henry in a silver tube, at the City Hail. MAYOR GAUS AND PRINCE HENRY. When Prince Henry of Prussia, younger brother of Emperor WilHam of Germany, visited Albany on March 7, ico2, Mayor Gaus drove with him to the City Hall. No. t)2. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 7^9 1902. of valuable Charles Lamb collection of rare editions, etc. (b. Albany, 1841), his residence "Hillside," Menands, dies at his camp on the Restigouche, Canada June 23. Charles Bridge, prominent citizen, dies, June 27. Robert W. Lockhart appointed superintendent of bureau of water, June 30. Smallpox at the alms-house, July- Seventeen-year locusts appear. Automobile first brought to this city for professional purposes by Dr. William E. Milbank, July. John Pennie, manufacturer of barrels, with large and long-estab- lished cooperage on north side of Arch street, a poet of quaint and classical ideas, and an author (b. Tavistock, Eng., March 24, 1824), dies at his home. No. 149 Madison avenue,^ July 20. Fire destroys the Lansing factory and office building built on the site of old Second Reformed Protestant Dutch Church on south side of Beaver, west of Green street, at which Fireman Donald K. Bishop loses his life, July 25. George W. Yerks, head of the large produce commission house at No. 369 Broadway, dies, Aug. 9 Labor Day, John C. Donovan grand marshal. Sept. i Martin H. Glynn becomes managing editor of The Times-Union Sept. 5 Albany Baseball team of State League wins the pennant, September Albany Polo team organized at Loudonville and Menands, September Earliest killing frost of the season, Oct. 10 Earliest autumn snow of the season, Oct. 29 Carnegie proposition, offering the city $150,000 for a public library building, receives the following votes at the election: total number of votes cast, 23,948; in favor of accepting, 7,192; ao-ainst accepting, 12,260; void, 71; marked for identification, i"^ blank, 4,425 votes, Nov. 4- Howard J. Rogers appointed Director of Congresses for the 1903 St. Louis Exposition, November. Ezra G. Benedict, retired millionaire lumber merchant and collector of paintings, dies at his home on Ten Broeck street, Nov. 20. Sixteen-inch rifle, largest cannon in the world, shipped from Water- vliet Arsenal where it had been in the making for past three or more years, to Indian Plead, Government proving station, ]\^ T " Nov. 26. Coal prices excessively high because of anthracite coal strike, and factories making use of bituminous largely, dealers selling to 770 CHAKLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1902-1903. residents in small lots only and the poor applying in numbers for aid to the Bureau of Charities, November. River closed to navigation, (Government record), Dec. 8. Albany Public Bath (No. i) opened at No 665 Broadway, December. Robert P. Thorn, many years proprietor of jewelry store on south side of State street, east of Pearl street, dies, Dec. 14. The B. P. O. Elks No. 49. purchases No. 34 Beaver street, December. 1903. Charter officials holding office at this time, for the year; but not elected on this date — Mayor, Charles H. Gaus ; Common Coun- cil : Joseph Besch, I. John W. Griggs, II. John Franey, III. Thomas F. Nolan, IV. Peter H. Reynolds, V. Herbert E. Bugden, VI. William PI. Hines, VII. Thomas F. Martin, VIII. Joseph F. Leddv, IX. Michael McAuliffe, X. James E. Borthwick, XI. lames Maloy, XII. George Holler, XIII. Charles E. Shelley, XIV. Edmund A. Walsh, XV. Frederick J. Barends, XVI. Richard Hughes, XVII. William C. Car- land, XVIII. Frank Naukam, XIX. William P. Hoyland, president. Holding office on, Jan. i. Home Telephone Co., starts service in its new building at s. w. corner of Lodge and Howard streets, Feb. i. Salvation Army opens its Industrial Home for men, February. Cruiser Albany, that had been purchased from Brazil at the com- mencement of hostilities with Spain, spring of 1898, which was then nearing completion at the shipyard in England, pre- sented at the New York Navy Yard at Brooklyn with an elaborate and typically decorated silver service, inclusive of a mammoth punch-bowl, the whole costing $10,000, subscribed by citizens generally; Mayor Gaus making the presentation, Capt. John A. Rogers accepting, Sec'y Wm. B. Jones repre- senting Chamber of Commerce, Curator Cuyler Reynolds rep- resenting Albany Institute and Bishop Burke offering prayer, Feb. 7. Samuel L. Munson, proprietor of shirt manufactory on Hudson avenue, a passenger on steamship Maidiana, wrecked on coral reef at night, 16 miles from shore, being 24 miles off course because of inoperative lighthouse, Feb. 10. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 7/1 1903. Dr. Willis G. MacDonald appointed a trustee of the N. Y. State Hospital for Treatment of Incipient Pulmonary Tuberculosis, Feb. II. Dr. Arthur G. Root appointed a manager of N. Y. State Industrial School at Rochester, to which truant school-children from all over the State are sent, Feb. ii. American Institute of Mining Engineers, Eben E. Olcott (president of the Hudson River Day Line) its president, and Hon. Ver- plank Colvin of this city chairman of entertainment committee, convenes in annual session at the building of the Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society, for three days, Feb. 17. Judge John T. McDonough (lawyer with office in Tweddle bld'g and former secretary of State for several terms) appointed by President Roosevelt associate judge of ^the Supreme Court of the Philippine Islands, Feb. i8. Maurice E. Viele, proprietor many years of the large hardware store at Nos. 39-41 State street (bought by Albany Hardware & Iron Co.) an active participant on boards of charitable in- stitutions and the Albany Academy, dies at his home. No. 6 Elk St., Feb. 19. Chauncey E. Argersinger (formerly Huyck & Argersinger, woolen blanket mills at Kenwood below the highway, on Normanskill creek) appointed postmaster of Albany, Feb. 26. Mrs. Elizabeth Brown, for 35 years janitress of the High School and living in basement on Columbia street, dies, Feb. 26. Ralph W. Thacher, grain merchant and later president of the Albany Art Union, photographers on east side of N. Pearl St., dies, Feb. 27. Ex-County Judge Jacob H. Clute (b. Guilderland, March 16, 1827), dies, March 6. Military exposition and carnival opens at the Armory, Capt. James E. Roach, chairman, March 11. William Thom,pson Fondey, formerly connected with the large hardware firm of Corning & Co., on east side of Broadway, a few doors north of the post-office, (b. Albany, June 30, 1854), dies at Morristown, N. J., March 12. Watson DuBois, city assessor and previously in the D, & H. office as chief of telegraph department, dies at Plattsburg suddenly, Alarch. River open to navigation, (Government record), March 15. Hon. Bernard Stark, who had been appointed by Gov. Odell, Jan. 17, 1 90 1, State arbitration commissioner in the department //- CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1903. of labor, previously a dry goods merchant on the east side of No. Pearl street, (b. Albany, Jan. i, 1847) dies at Petersburg, Va., March i8. Samuel T. Hull, attorney, dies, April 2. William M. Van Antwerp, retired banker and man of means, dies at his residence. No. 162 Washington avenue, April 8. Ezra Prentice Treadwell, art designer (b. Albany) aged 55 years, dies at White Plains, N. Y., April 8. Miss Mary Anne Henry, daughter of the late Professor Joseph Henry, who was an instructor in the Albany Academy where he demonstrated the principle of the electric telegraph, and re- moved later to Princeton, then to Washington to become the secretary of Smithsonian Institution, her home in that city, dies while touring Europe, at Seville, Spain, April 10. Michael Francis Carev, humorous poet and writer under the name "Rambler," (b. Albany, Feb. 18, 1866), dies, April 15. Hon. Hugh Reilly, former district-attorney and chief of the State Board of Claims, (b. Albany, March 14, 1853), dies at his home. No. 81 Columbia street, ' April 16. Dean Wilford Lash Robbins of All Saints' Cathedral for many years, elected dean of the General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church in New York City, succeeding the late Dean Hoffman, April 17. Matthew O'Neill, styled "^Albany's Oldest Newsboy," who had earned a sufficient sum by selling papers and miscellaneous reading matter on the streets, between the post-office and the depot, to support and educate a number of brothers and sisters, yet remaining himself in hard circumstances, (b. Albany, June 17, 1851), dies, April 21. Frederick Harris, attorney with office in Tweddle bld'g (b. Albany, June 14, 1854, son of Hon. Hamilton Harris), dies, April 22. Henry Moeslein, a popular musician and pianist, (b. Germany), aged 58 years, dies at the Homeopathic Hospital.. April 24. Henry Parish Kernochan, president of the Taylor Brewing Co., on Broadway, below the South Ferry, dies at his home. No. 243 State street, April 25. Home for Incurables (new edifice) opened at Kenwood Heights, below the city, with extensive grounds and favorable outlook, April 26. Latest spring snow of the season, May i. Latest killing frost of the season. May 2. Mrs. Lydia Lush Martin, wife of Henry Townsend Martin, dies at their residence, No. 152 State street, May 2. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. ^'JZ 1903. New York State National Bank entirely remodeled within by re- moval of the second story which had been devoted to law offices, reached by the western entrance, and six-story addition erected at the rear, extending in an L to James street, INIarcus T. Reynolds, architect, May. Herman J. Tenney, son of Jonathan Tenney, local historian, dies at New York City, May 11. Ferdinand Nenman, jeweler for many years, (b. Berlin, Ger., 1820), dies at his home. No. 194 State street. May 11. Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society elects Judge William L. Learned its president a fourth time, annual meet- ing, May II. Edward Callahan, connected with the Country Gentleman and the State Experimental Station at Geneva, N. Y., dies. May 14. Steamboat New York of Hudson River Day Line makes record run from 22nd street. New York city, to Poughkeepsie, 75 miles in 3 hours, 5 minutes and 37 seconds, at times 25 }4 miles per hour. May. William T. Rudd, formerly of the N. Y. Central road and father of William P. Rudd, former corporation counsel, (b. Cherry Valley, N. Y., 18 16), dies at his home, No. 373 State street, May 17. Bishop Thomas Alfred Starkey, Episcopal bishop of New Jersey and the rector of St. Paul's Church in this city, 1854-58, (b. Philadelphia, 1819) dies at East Orange, N. J., May 17. Matthew W. Bender, donor of the Bender Bacteriological Lab- oratory on east side of Lake avenue, former grain merchant, dies at his home. No. 195 Madison avenue, May 21. Eugene P. Gross, of the wall-paper firm on west side of No. Pearl street, Chas. M. Skinner & Co., and a man of great popularity, dies at his home, No. 16 Ten Broeck street. May 21. Robert James Waddell, president of investment company, with office in the Tweddle Building, (b. Albany, Nov. 13, 1829), dies, May 23. Gen. Rufus H. King, paymaster-general on the stafl^ of Gov. John A. Dix, and brother of the late J. Howard King, bank president, (b. Albany, Jan. 22, 1835), dies at his residence, No. 2 Elk street. May 26. Memorial Day parade, Daniel J. O'Brien grand marshal, Saturday, May 30. Tenth Batallion, under Maj. Clarence Strevell, participates in field service near Crescent, N. Y., with the 3rd Brigade, under Gen. Robert Shaw Oliver, June 13-20. 774 CHARLES IIENRV GAUS. No. 62. 1903. Mrs. Eleanor Spenslcy, widow of John R. Spensley and the philan- thropic founder in 1884, of the Home for Incurables at No. 390 Madison avc., (b. in this State, Oct. 22, 1848), dies there, June 23. Alexander M. Scott, contracting" carpenter, an elder and influential member of Third Presbyterian Church, (b. Canobie, Dtnnfries- shire, Scot., March 31, 1832), who came to America in 1853, and soon to this city, dies, July 6. St. John's Cemetery on east side of Delaware avenue abandoned to provide more advantageous building sites, and bodies being removed, J^'ly- John T. Johnson, merchant tailor at No. 35 Maiden Lane, dies, July 19. Mrs. J. Hampden Robb, a g^randdaughter of the late Gen. Stephen Van Rensselaer, the last to live at the Manor House at the head of Broadway, dies at her home, No. 23 Park ave.. New York City, July 19. INFalachi F. Cox, former supervisor (1895) and alderman, (1896), dies at Snyder's Lake, July 29. Nathaniel Hyatt, many years connected with the State Insurance Department, (b. Ossining-, N. Y., Dec, 1851), dies, July 30. Nathan B. Perry, president of the widely known Perry Stove Co., dies suddenly in New York City, Aug. 2. Charles L. Blakeslee, founder and head of the firm of woodwork specialties, doors, blinds, etc.. at the head of Broadway, dies at his home at Menands, Aug. 2. Miles W. Vosburgh, proprietor of the old Vosburgh Steamship Agency, established at No. 645 Broadway years before by his father, Fletcher Vosburgh, dies, Aug. 2. School No. 9 completed, August. John Henry Ward, telegraph editor of The Times-Union and a most popular, upright young man of the West End, dies at Utica, Aug. 16. Capt. Thomas Noonan, commander of local steamboat Lotta. dies at Manchester, N. H., Aug. 23. George Norman Cuyler, aged insurance agent, dies, Aug. 23. Robert C. Blackall, consulting mechanical superintendent of the D. & H. Railroad, dies at his home, No. 68 Philip St., Aug. 31. Riverside Park, Broadway to the river, having been formed with retaining-wall, sodded and planted with small trees, is opened, August. Albany Trust Co. opens new building erected on site of the Old Museum or Marble Pillar Building, lately styled the Western I^nion Building, INFarcus T. Reynolds, architect, Sept. 5. ALBANY TRUST COMPANY. The site (n. w. cor. Broadway & State st.) was widely known for years as the "Museum Building " (1831), also as " Marble Pillar." Organized Mch. 20, iqoo, with John D. Parsons, Jr., president, and entered its building (Marcus T. Reynolds, Archi- tect) on Sept. 5, 1904. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 775 1903. Walter Dickson, architect, (b. Albany) formerly residing at the residence at the acute junction of State st. and Washington ave., opposite Washington Park, aged 65 years, dies at Brook- lyn, Sept. 4. Fernwood Lake in St. Agnes' Cemetery the scene of drowning of three little girls, Sept. 5. Labor Day parade, Michael J. Sullivan grand marshal, Sept. 7. Gen. Robert Shaw Oliver (of Rathbone, Sard & Co.) appointed first assistant secretary of war by President Roosevelt, September. Sir Frederick Pollock, eminent English jurist, law reporter and writer, guest in America of American Bar Association, ad- dresses Albany Law School and is given a reception at Fort Orange Club, Sept. 24. Judson Hoit, father of Benton S. Hoit (a proprietor of Albany Business College), dies, Sept. 30. Consul Booth-Tucker of the Salvation Army delivers address in Cavalry Baptist Church on State street, Oct. i. Capt. James H. Scott, half a century a river captain and proprietor of " Scott's Float " for rental of small boats at foot of State street, in the Basin, dies at his home in Upper Rensselaer, Oct. 2. Albany Art League organized, October. Bryan Sheehan, prominent West Albany live-stock dealer of the West Albany stock-yards, dies suddenly, Oct. 13. Stephen Griffin Merrill, son of Dr. Cyrus S. Merrill, dies at Am- herst, October. Nicholas J. Hussey, long the discount clerk of the National Com- mercial Bank, dies, Oct. 19. William Clemenshire, for 50 years with the Little Sisters of the Poor on Central avenue, dies, Oct. 19. Edwin S. Sterry, many years the leading photographer of the city, studio on west side of Broadway, midway between Maiden Lane and Steuben st., (b. Cornwall, Eng., 1822), dies in New York City, Oct. 21. Death of the wife of ex-Congressman John j\L Bailey, Oct. 25. Earliest killing frost of the season, Oct. 25. Judge Thomas J. Van Alstyne, Albany's 60th mayor, judge of Albany County Court, 1871-11882; congressman, 1883-1884, a prominent mason, upright in dealings and energetic in actions (b. Richmondville, N. Y., July 25, 1827), dies at his home, No. 289 State street, Oct. 26. Earliest autumn snow of the season, Oct. 26. JJi:) CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1903. Albany Yacht Club secures quarters on the river front, No. io8 Pier, at eastern terminal of State street Basin bridge, south side, having moved from their own building on the opposite shore, Nov. i. Mrs Sarah White King, widow of Gen. Rufus H. King, dies at her home, No. 2 Elk street, Nov. i. L-harles H. Gaus re-elected the Mayor of Albany to succeed him- self, at the Charter election this day, receiving 14,175 votes as the Republican candidate ; his opponent, Col. William Gor- ham Rice, receiving 9.612 votes as the Democratic candidate; others, 232 votes ; blank and void, 557 votes ; total number of votes cast. 24,576; Gaus' majority over Rice being 4,563 votes, he is declared elected the Mayor of Albany, Nov. 3 Gen. John Palmer elected secretary of State a second time, Nov. 7 Theodore AI. Amsdell, head of the Dobler Brewing Co., dies, Nov. 8 Ashbel King Shepard, civil engineer of the first steam railroad entering City of IMexico, fb. Albany), dies, Denver. Nov. 11 Steamboat Evans of the Castleton Line, sold to Georgia parties, November Dr. Charles H. Porter, a prominent ph3^sician of standing for many years, (b. Columbia Co., Nov. 11, 1834), dies at Canandaigua Nov. 21 Jacob Holler, prominent contractor for years, (b. Unosten, Ger. ]\Iay 24, 1821), dies, Nov. 23 River closed to navigation, (Government record), Nov. 30 Christopher Burlingham, many years fish-dealer at n. w. cor. Hain- ilton and Philip streets, dies, Dec. 4 Dr. Horace M. Paine, most prominent homeopathic physician of his day in the city, with office on site of St. Peter's Church rectory on State street, and widely known in the State as president of the State Homeopathic Medical Society, (b. Paris, N. Y., 1827), dies at Atlanta, Ga., Dec. 6. James Burnside Hendrick. insurance agent, son of Col. James Hen- drick who conducted an insurance office in the Marble Pillar building, n. w. cor. Broadway and State St., for many years, dies at Colorado Springs, Dec. 12. John H. Van Antwerp, former president of National Savings Bank and v.-p. N. Y. State Nat'l Bank, (b. Albany, Oct. 12, 1823) many years a resident at No. 2 Lodge st.. dies (at his new residence. No. 270 State St.), Dec. 14. Nelson H. Salisbury, lumber merchant at No. i. Lumber District. of the firm of Hughson & Co., aged 55, dies, Dec. 17. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. JJ^ 1903-1904. Matthew Henry Robertson, connected since the inauguration of the State Insurance Department with it (43 years until resigning), first as chief clerk and then as deputy, dies at his home. No. 445 State St., Dec. 20. Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society during year cares for 10,000 cases of children and animals, and prosecutes 644 cases, Dec. 31. • • • 1904. Major Charles H. Gaus assumes the office of Mayor of Albany a second time, having been chosen by the people at the Charter election held on Nov. 3, 1903, when his majority was 4,563 votes, Jan. i. Charter election, Mayor, Charles H. Gaus ; Common Council : Val- entine Komfort, I. James J. McGraw, H. James J. O'Leary, HI. Morris Koplon, IV. James J. Gorman, V. Herbert E. Bugden (appointed) superintendent of school buildings and succeeded by Alva L. Austin), VI. Joseph B. Stevens (died and succeeded by George W. Hart). VII. Thomas F. Martin, VIII. James J. Welch, Jr., IX. Philip Bender, X. John Boos, XI. James J- Tiernan, XII. George Holler, XIII. Charles E. Shelley, XIV. William F. Reilly, XV. Samuel H. Tallmadge. XVI. Richard Hughes, XVII. Rollin B. San- ford, XVIII. Isaac La Grange, XIX. WilHam P. Hoyland, president. Election, Nov. 3, 1903; sworn in, Jan. i. Police department at this time consists of a chief, 5 captains, 16 ser- geants, 121 patrolmen, i captain of veterans, 2 veteran ser- geants, II veteran patrolmen; total, 157, January. Crusade started in vigorous manner against a few Mormons who had settled here to prosecute evangelical work and had made a somewhat systematic canvass of the city, holding services and meeting with some success, January. Capt Cornelius C. Cusick, a valiant fighter during Civil War and in conflicts with the Indians, bearing a badly battle-scarred coun- tenance, the possessor of many medals for bravery, and a resident here for a number of years after retirement, (b. Lewis - ton, N. Y., Aug., 1835), dies at Niagara Falls, Jan. 2. Horace S. Bell, merchant of long standing, forming partnership in 1866 of Bell & Coffin, dies," " " Jan. a. Rev. Samuel F. Morrow, D. D.. forty years pastor of United Pres- byterian Church, this city, dies, Jan. 12. 778 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1904. Hon. Charles Emory Smith, a former Albany editor on Albany Evening Journal and ex-postmaster-general of the United States, speaker at the annual banquet of the Chamber of Com- merce, Donald ^IcDonald presiding, at Fort Orange Club, Jan. 14. Rev. Samuel F. ^Morrow. D. D., for 40 years pastor of the United " Presbyterian Church here, dies, funeral held, Jan. 16. i\lbanv [Medical College Alumni Association's 9th annual banquet at i\Ianhattan Hotel, New York City, Jan. 21. ]\Iai.-Gen. George H. Tteadwell, prominent figure among local military men, late major of the 7th N. Y. \'ol. Artillery, con- ducting the fur business that his family had carried on for about a century previous, aged 66 years, dies at his home. No. 735 Broadway, Jan. 21. Ned Howard Fowler, for three years with the Proctor theatre stock company recently, in a nervous condition shoots himself fatally at Columbus, Ohio (b. Salem, Mass.) and many friends here are shocked by the news, Jan. 22. Sir Henrv' Irving's last appearance here before his death, Harmanus Bleecker Hall, Jan. 23. Adolph Gerber, former treasurer of the Leland Opera House and afterwards first manager of Empire Theatre, dies at New York City, Jan. 23. Mrs. John H. Rathbone kille'd in an automobile accident at Cannes, France, (body brought to Albany for burial in the Rural Cemetary), Jan. 27. ]Mary Young Myers, widow of the late John G. flyers, proprietor of the large dry goods store of that title, a most charitable woman, dies at her home, No. 240 State street, Feb. 9. Rev. Richard H. Nelson of Philadelphia accepts the call extended by the recent Episcopal convention held here, to be bishop coadjutor of the Albany diocese with Bishop Doane, Feb. 21. Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society allowed by law to re- ceive children committed to its house of detention from any county within its jurisdiction, also allowing it to consolidate with the Schenectady branch. Rev. Francis D. ^McGuire. rector of the Cathedral of the Immacu- late Conception, aged 57, dies, March 4. Erastus Dow Palmer, sculptor of note, born at Pompey. N. Y., April 2, 1817, his early life spent at Dunkirk, then Utica, a graduate of Union, in the '40's removing from Utica to Albany where he begins the carving of cameos, numbering several hundred, as recorded in his carefully kept note-book, during ^ 5 o ■r. H s ■J I c^, ^^ o •;^ <; ^ ^ a t« O _;Li^ No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 779 1904. the succeeding 20 years, >when he began on larger works, modehng statuary, with a studio at the east angle of the north- ern end of Eagle street, formed with the eastern end of Spruce street, known as No. 3 Columbia place, a large brick residence, in 1900 the building of the Open-Door Mission ; his leading works in statuary, the companion medallions in marble, for hanging on the wall, " Morning " and " Evening," " The Infant Ceres," " The White Captive," in the Metropolitan Museum, New York city ; the statue of Chancellor Robert R. Livingston, of Clermont, completed in plaster and ready to be cast in bronze by Barbedienne at Paris, June 6, 1874, for the old Hall of Representatives in the Capitol at Washington as one of the two statues allowed each State to be placed therein, a second copy of which was made also in bronze for the Court of Ap- peals, at the Capitol, Albany ; " The Angel at the Sepulchre," completed April 29, 1868, for the Rural Cemetery lot of Gen. Robert Lenox Banks, and he remodeled the State Arms ; his most intimate friend for the last score of years was the artist, Asa W. Twitchell, living on the Hurst road to Slingerlands ; he had a country place, with lake, in the vicinity of Cedar Hill, and about 1870 removed to his new residence with studio at No. 5 Lafayette street, where he died, March 9. William Lleadlam, connected early in life with his father in lumber business, an active Republican and a worker in the labor cause towards the end of his life, connected with and organizer of the Business Men's Association, aged 69, dies, March 15. Isaac G. Perry, appointed capitol commissioner by Gov. Grover Cleveland in 1883, acting as State architect, accomplishes much of the work of completing the building of the Capitol, prin- cipally the Library, the Western approach and the Grand West- ern staircase, in that portion, and at the front the extensive ap- proach, for two years removing to the foundations the work started there by predecessor, (b. Bennington, Vt., June, 1822) dies at Binghamton of heart failure, March 16. James Lawrence, skilled decorator, painter of coats-of-arms and delicate work, (b. Auchterarder, Perthshire, Scot., Aug. 27, 1826,) came to America and this city in 1871, dies at his home, No. 103 Eagle st., March 24. Andrew S. Draper, recent president of the University of Illinois and formerly of this city, becomes State Superintendent of Education upon the reorganization of the departments, suc- ceeding Charles R. Skinner at the termination of a conflict be- tween State boards extending over several years, April i. 780 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1904. Barent B. Sanders, commission merchant at No. 343 Broadway, aged 82, dies at his home, No. 143 Madison avenue, April i. River open to navigation, (Government record), April 5. Howard J. Rogers appointed first assistant commissioner of State Department of Education. April. Albany City Free Dispensary Association opens its building at Ash Grove and Trinity places, ApriL National Savings Bank's new marble building at No. 72 State street, the site of the Douw H. Fonda drug store for a score of years. Marcus T. Reynolds architect, James H. Manning president, opened, April 19. Latest spring snow of the season, April 21. Latest killing frost of the season, April 23, Asa Weston Twitchell, portrait and landscape artist of repute, born Swanzey, N. H., on Jan. i, 1820, beginning painting of por- traits in 1839, coming to this city in 1843, his studio over An- nesley & Co.'s art store at No. 57 No. Pearl street, and in the country in his home to the east of the road to Slingerlands, at Hurstville, near the Normanskill creek, though not border- ing; painted the portrait of Judge Rufus W. Peckham (the elder, who was lost at sea) which hangs in the Court of Ap- peals, a likeness of Dr. T. Romeyn Beck, principal of the Albany Academy and hanging in its chapel, which w^on for him admission to the National Academy, a portrait of Prof. Martin L. Deyo also in that building, his last work, and fan- ciful pictures, a group and landscape hanging in the Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society gallery, a close friend of the late Erastus Dow Palmer, a man of singularly beautiful character and lover of nature in its naturalness, dies at his country studio south of Hurstville, after an illness of some months, April 26. National Commercial Bank, Robert C. Pruyn, president, opens its new granite building at No. 60 State street, York & Sawyer, architects; its main banking room 60x60 feet, with a general altitude of 45 feet, wainscoted wnth the choicest marbles most elaborately matched. May 2. John DeWitt Peltz, attorney of prominence and an active Republi- can, a man highly respected for his integrity of character, dies, May 7. St. Peter's Hospital, s. e. corner Broadway and No. Ferry street, being remodeled w^ithin and greatly enlarged, also adding a new stone entrance. May 8. ^-^-^.* i Lj^iui;tlL i MiiJj.liwi.iI ii I .n Bw II NATIONAL COMMERCIAL BANK. Charter granted Apr. 12, 1825 ; opened Sept. 5, 1826, at Nos. 38-40 State St. under Pres't Jos. Alexander, with capital of $300,000 ; increased in 1906 to $2,500,000 capital and surplus, under Pres't Robert C. Pruyn, and its new building. Nos. 58-60 State St., opened May 2, 1904. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 781 1904. Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society re-elects Judge William L. Learned a fifth time its president at annual meet- ing, May 9. William J. Walker, head of the firm of Walker & Gibson, wholesale druggists, the successors of Archibald McClure & Co. at Nos. 74-76 State street, ;and a former Republican candidate for mayor, thrown from his horse in Washington Park in early morning, dies immediately, May 9. New York Savings Banks Association (of the State) elects William Bayard Van Rensselaer its president, May 12. Henry Townsend Martin, (son of the late Henry H. Martin, presi- dent of the Albany Savings Bank) real estate investments of private nature and part owner of the Globe Hotel fwith brother Bradley Martin) aged 67 years, dies at his home, No. 152 State street. May 16. Dudley Observatory building at No. Albany, on hill west of No. Pearl street, abandoned for the new one on Lake avenue, seriously damaged by fire. May 16, Rev. Richard Henry Nelson, of Philadelphia, consecrated bishop coadjutor of All Saints' Cathedral, assisting Bishop Doane, May 19. The Emerson Centenary, being celebrated all over the country, observed at the building of The Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society, there being souvenirs of his association and ownership on exhibition and speakers Rev. Dr. Walton W. Battershall, Rev. J- Walter Sylvester, Prof. Henry P. Warren and Mrs. Salome Cutler Fairchild, vice director of the State Library, May 25. Albert J. O'Neill, former assistant county clerk and U, S. deputy marshal, (b. Albany, Oct. 31, i860) dies. May 27. Steamboat Dean Richmond of the People's Line, built in 1864 by John Englis, 2,525 tons, 348 feet long, 46 feet broad and 9 feet deep, taken out of commission. May 28. Steamboat Charles W. Morse put into commission by the People's Line, night boat, built by Harlan & Hollingworth ; 4.307 tons, 427 feet long, 505^ feet broad, 14 feet deep, ]\Iay 28. Edwin M. Chamberlain marshal of Memorial Day Parade, May 30. Michael B. Sherman, proprietor for many years of shoe store at n. e. cor. No. Pearl st. and Maiden Lane, a founder of the Round Lake Camp-Meeting Association, who had within decade purchased the Leland Opera House on So. Pearl street and Prospect House overlooking the Hudson at Catskill vil- lage, dies at Nyack, June 2. 782 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1904. Rev. Edward Griffin Selden, pastor of the Madison Avenue (Second) Dutch Reformed Church, and an author of religious works, dies at his summer home at Saratoga, June 2. Spiers Falls o'n upper Hudson (neighborhood of Glens Falls) sends electric power to Albany, June 3. Thomas H. Dwyer, many years city superintendent of buildings, of Co. II in the old fire department of 1859, ^^^ ^ volunteer of 43rd N. Y. Vols., dies at his home, No. 132 Elm st., June 9. Edwin Dean Worcester, of New York City, formerly and for many years a resident of Albany, who had completed 50 years of service as official of N. Y; Central Railroad, performing with rare ability the consolidation of the small railroad lines be- tween Albany and Buffalo into the N. Y. Central Railroad in 1853, when they were 10 separate corporations, later becom- ing secretary of the Vanderbilt system and a vice-president of some of the more important lines, (burial in the Rural Cemetery) dies, June 13. Dudley Walsh DeWitt, son of the late Richard Varick DeWitt, connected with the Albany Insurance Co., dies, June 20. Independence Day celebrated ; Capt. James E. Roach grand mar- shal, Maj. Clarence Strevell commanding Tenth Battalion, Monday, July 4. United Traction Co. erects new car-barns west side Quail St., July 5. Perry street, northward from Western avenue, changed to Lake avenue to correspond with southern part of same street, July 7. North marble approach to the State House removed and the high iron fence about the grounds to the east taken down, July 10. Van Rensselaer and Dudley parks at No. Albany improved, July 12. Gen. John P. Masterson, ex-surveyor of the port of Albany, dies, July 19. Theophilus E. Roessle, who assumed control of the Delavan House, n. e. cor. Broadway and Steuben street, with his father in 1849 (also being the original owner of Fort William Henry Hotel at Caldwell, at head of Lake George), the proprietor of the Arlington at Washington of late, dies at Paris, Aug. 10. Spanish War Veterans of New York State hold first convention at Albany, Aug. 15. First Police Precinct new station-house at Arch and Broad streets, officially inspected to determine acceptance, Aug. 19. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 783 1904. Theophilus E. Roessle, former proprietor of the Delavan House, who died at Paris on Aug. loth, buried in Rural Cemetery, Aug. 26. Basin, from Maiden Lane to Cohniibia street, cleared of the last sunken scow in the worjc of improvement to channel, endeavor- ing also to improve health conditions of a place that had beeri allowed to deteriorate for years, Aug. 30. Jail on north side of Maiden Lane, connected across the paved court-yard with an upper floor of the City Hall by a " Bridge of Sighs " for convenience of bringing prisoners into court, abandoned, and prisoners removed to Albany County Peniten- tiary to the west of Delaware ave., .Sept. t. Robert Lockhart, superintendent of the bureau of water, dies, Sept. 2. Tenth Battalion leaves on a 3-day trip to Boston, Sept. 3. j. Irving Wendell, former cashier of the Merchains' National Bank, dies at New York City, Sept. 5. Labor Day parade, James L. J^.IcHale grand niarshal, .Sept. 5. State Fair s 64th exhibition, held at Syracuse, Sept. 5. Hiram L. Washburn, real estate agent, dies. Sept. 7. Packing-house strike of union butchers that was begun in tlie west July 1 2th, seriously afTects price of meats during liie period, terminates, Sept. 9. National Humane Alliance presents animal drinking fountain t. > the city, which is erected in Townsend park, .Sept. 10 Michael Leonard Morgan, manager of the Western Union telegraph office at n. w. cor. State and Broadway, dies, vSept. i6. Hon. Zeb. A. Dyer, district-attorney (b. Berne, Albany Co., Dec. i, i860) dies of typhoid fever at his home in Delmar, Sept. 18. German Day first celebrated at Albany, commemorating the coming of Germans to America (Oct. 6, 1683) Mayor Gaus chau-uian of general committee and Anton Hafner grand marshal of the parade, Sept. 19. Hon. William Law Learned, LL.D., born at New London, Conn.. July 24, 1821 ; Yale salutatorian. 1841 ; appointed justice of Supreme Court by Governor Hofifman to succeed Justice Rufus W. Peckham (lost at sea on Ville de Havre) and th.en elected justice for 14 years, presiding judge, 1S75 ; serving many years as the president of the following organizations, .Albany Rural Cemetery Association, Albany Boys' Academy, Albany Female Academy, Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society, Board of Education and Fort Orange Club ; owner of a sum- mer home at Selkirk, N. Y., and residence at No. 208 State 784 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1904-1905. street ; a man of fine parts, well-read and phiIani:hropic ; is found dead in his office, seated by his desk, No. 80 State street, having come to town in forenoon to attend to business, Sept. 20. John V. L. Pruyn, son of the late Chancellor J. V. L. Pruyn, lawyer, former Alderman-at-Large and writer, aged 45 years, dies in New York City (burial in Rural Cemetery), Sept. 22. Chamber of Commerce organizes Hallowe'en fefe, George D. Bab- bitt president of committee, Sept. 23. Archbishop of Canterbury (Randall T. Davidson), Mrs. Davidson and J. Pierrepont Morgan arrive from F>ar Harbor. Me., and dine with Bishop Doane at the Bishopric, No. 2Q, Elk St., Sept. 23. Burial of Judge Learned, Rural Cemetery, Sept. 23. Earliest killing frost of the season, Sept. 23. Earliest snow of the season, Oct. 12. Rev. George Galen Carter, S. T. D., who was made chancellor of All Saints' Cathedral in 1900 (b. Brooklyn, Nov. 8, 1840), dies at his home, No. 62 South Swan street, Dec. 3. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 4. William E. Walsh, hat store and gentlemen's goods, long conducted by him at No. 58 State, and lately at No. 2-4 No. Pearl st., dies, Dec. 15. John D. Parsons, Jr., president of Albany Trust Co. from start, and of the Albany Exchange Bank many years, the son of the late John D. Parsons of Weed & Parsons, printers on Columbia st., graduate of Albany Academy and Union College, member of Masters' Lodge, a man of wealth and liberality, collector of rare books and autographs, with summer residence on shore of the Hudson at Selkirk, dies suddenly at his home. No. 233 State st., Dec. 16. 1905. Frank W. Higgins sworn in as Governor, Jan. i. Heavy precipitation of snow, registering as water 9 inches, Jan. 2. Prof. James Weir Mason (b. Albany, 1836) principal of the Albany Academy and instructor in mathematics, 1863-68, dies at Easton, Pa., Jan. 10. William J. Ouinlan, owner for several years of the victorious Al- bany Baseball team of State League (1902) dies, Jan. 14. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 785 1905. George Henry Boughton, artist of national repute, whose boyhood was spent in this city where his family were residents ; taking up his abode in New York in 1858, later in Paris, and after that, in 1862, at London, Eng., elected a National Academician in 1 87 1, an associate of the Royal Academy in 1879, ^^'^ becom- ing an Academician in 1896; elected vice-president of the Royal Academy ; found dead in his studio at Campden Hill, London, Jan. 19. Cephas W. Cureton, past commander of Lew O. Morris Post, No. 121, also of William A. Jackson Post, No. 644, aged 60 years, dies, Jan. 20. Thermometer 6 degrees below zero, coldest of the month, Jan. 26. Lewis Benedict Hall, attorney at No. 25 No. Pearl st., former presi- dent of Albany Academy Alumni Association, frequently called upon to address gatherings because of liis dry, infectious humor, dies, Feb. 12. Dean Henry R. Talbot of All Saints' Cathedral, gives a public reception at the Deanery in honor of Bishop Doane's departure the following day to Sicily, to be gone six months, Feb. 22. Funeral at St. Peter's Church of Mrs. Richard Lord Annesley, who had died while traveling with her husband, the head of the art firm of that name, in Europe, the previous month, March « 5. King Fountain winter covering removed and lake now free from ice, March 5. Dr. David Alurray, an educator of world-wide repute, principal of the Albany Academy, 1857-1863 ; becoming professor of math- ematics at Rutgers College, 1863 ; Mikado of Japan accepts him on recommendation of the President as the best man to inaugurate a school system for that nation, 1873-1879; made secretary of Board of Regents, 1880-1889; returns to Rutgers College, dies at New Brunswick, N. J., March 6. Charles McAulay, a valiant fighter in the Civil War, who had long- conducted a religious book-store at No. 13 Plain st., dies, March 10. Heavy snowstorm. 8 inches, March 21. Investigation ordered by the city of gaseous odors in the water, March 23. Preusser trial completed, March 24. Ex-Congressman Charles Tracey, president of Columbia Distilling Co. (No. 924 Broadway) General of the Papal Guard, (b. Albany, May 2"/, 1847) dies at his home. No. 20 Willett st., March 24. Ice breaks up before the city, water over D. & H. tracks. ]\Iarch 27. 786 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1905. Gen. Charles Traeey buried from St. Ann's Clnirch, crowded with his many friends, Bishop I'urke dcHvcrin^- eulogy, burial St. Agnes, March 27. Safe blown on an upper floor of the Drislane Building on No. Pearl St., by two men. March 28. River clear of ice before the city, March 28. Disastrous fire in Hisgen Bros.' axle-grease factory on Tivoli street at 5 a. m., believed incendiary, March 30. River open to navigation (Government record), April i. Capt. Howard Udell McMillan of Co. A, Tenth Battalion, elected major, April 12. Gen. John Palmer, twice elected secretary of State, a prominent Republican, valiant service in the Civil War, wherein he was critically injured and a sufferer for life, commander-in-chief of the Grand Army, (born March 22, 1842), dies at his home. No. 728 Madison ave., April 15. Snowfall covering the ground completely, April 16. Latest snow of the season, April 18. State barge canal work commenced at Fort Miller, April 24. Water let into the Erie canal, April 26. Col. Willard Glazier, Civil War fighter and prisoner, author of a dozen books of enormous circulation, discoverer of the source ' of the Mississippi river, Lake Glazier, explorer of Labrador, dies, April 26. Byron Travers, guest at Kenmore Hotel, departs for New York, having been handed I lie wrong satchel containing $5,000 in diamonds, April 26. First Lieutenant William B. Coates elected captain of Co. A, loth Battalion, to succeed Howard U. McMillan previously chosen major, April 29. Latest spring frost of the season. May 2. Albany Medical , College commencement, I\Iay 2. Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society elects James Ten Eyck president for first time at its (6th) annual meeting held in its building at No. 176 State St., May 8. William Goodwin and Louis Himmell, safe-breakers of the Dris- lane ])uilding, saw their way from cells in the Penitentiary and are caught in the attic, May 9. William Minott Whitney, head of the dry goods firm of Wm. M. Whitney & Co., one of the two largest business houses of the kind in this city or ]^art of the state, conducted by him for more than half a century on the east side of No. Pear! st., dies of apoplexy at his handsome home, No. 158 Washington ave., s. w. cor. of Dove street, May 10. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 787 1905. Albany Academy Cadets' competitive drill in Washington Park, May 12. Local Masons attend funeral obsequies of M. W. Jesse B. Anthony, for 14 years superintendent of the Home at Utica. burial at Oakwood Cemetery, Troy, May 25. Close of Brotherhood of St. Andrew's 12th annual convention at St. Paul's Church, May 29. Rev. R. H. Rollins, having leased the Manor House and grounds north of Rensselaer (built by Wm. Patterson Van Rensselaer about 1841) and later purchased (1850) by Paul Forbes as a country-seat, thus becoming known popularly as Forbes Manor, opens it as Van Rensselaer Park for the benefit of Sunday school excursions and picnics generally. May 30. St. Agnes' School commencement, Piishop Xelson reading" annual address to the graduates by Bishop Doane, because of his ab- sence in Europe, May 31. Dr. Henry Wadsworth Giles, organist of the Second Presbyterian Church for more than a score of years, a graduate of Albany Medical College, (b. Cherry Valley, N. Y.) dies at his home on So. Allen st., June. Brig.-Gen. Charles W. Hobbs, U. S. A., given a banquet at the Hampton by military men, admirers and former Albany friends, June 6. William C. McHarg, connected with the Callanan Road Improve- ment Co., dies at his home. No. 193 Lancaster st., June 6. Light frost, temperature 44 degrees, June 8. Tenth Battalion returns from camp, Jwne 10. Empire Opera Co. disbands suddenly at Empire theatre, the man- ager leaving the members in distress and they appeal for city aid, June 13. Flag Day quite generally celebrated with displays, Jtine 14. Safe-blowers Louis Himmell and William Goodman, for breaking into an ofifice in Drislane Building on night of March 28th, sentenced to serve more than 4 years at Dannemora, June 14. Miss Harriet L. Gaylord, niece of the late Edwin Croswell (the prominent editor of The Argus in its early existence) and who conducted a private school at Catskill, attended by a dozen or more prominent Albanians (b. Catskill, Aug. 6, 1824) dies at Rutherford, N. J., June 14. Bishop Burke receives life-size portrait of Pius X., painted by Commendatore Enrico Scifone, June 14. Albany Academy Commencement, held in its Assembly room, Clar- ence T. Graham, valedictorian, June 15. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1905. Rev. John Townsend, son of the late Mayor John Townsend, graduate of the Albany Academy and Union College, for some time in the past a Chancellor of All Saints' Cathedral and holding rectorships outside the city, dies at Middletown, Conn., aged 72 years, on June 13th, and funeral held at St. Peter's Church, burial at Rural, June i6. Grace Episcopal Church celebrates its 59th anniversary, June 18. Christian Brothers' Academy commencement at Empire Theatre, June 19. Judge Jerome B. Fisher elected Supreme Court Reporter to suc- ceed Marcus T. Hun, who had most creditably held the otfice since 1874, June 19. Temperature drops from 84 to 54 degrees during the day, June 20. Robert Hewson Pruyn's oil portrait presented to Rutgers College by his son, Robert C. Pruyn, Hon. Andrew S. Draper making the presentation address, Jtme 21. James F. Tracey, prominent Albany attorney (Tracey & Cooper, 25 No. Pearl) appointed associate justice of the court in the Philippine Islands by President Roosevelt, July i. John A. Harid, many years in office of the Thacher Car Wheel- Works, dies, July 2. Albany Yacht Club's building on east shore, opposite State street, burned to the ground. Jwly 3. Independence Day celebration. Second Battalion and other military bodies parade, Capt. William F. Wheelock grand ^marshal; Rev. John Lynch the orator and Rev. A. M. Vander Wart the chaplain ; orphans entertained in Washington Park ; fireworks in Beaver Park, July 4. Capt. Charles A. Bailey, office on the Pier at the foot of State street bridge, prominent resident of Rensselaer and known to all river men, (b. London, Eng.,. coming to Bath-on-the-Hud- son in 1856) president of Bath two terms and concerned in barge and tow lines, dies, July 6. Dr. N. Emmons Paine's wife. Harriet Gould (daughter of the late William Gould), both long residents of this city, removed to West Newton, Mass., dies there suddenly, July 8. Frederick B. Hubbard, insurance agent with office in Tweddle Building (b. Watertown, Nov. 24, 1844), dies suddenly, July 9. Legislature in special session, opening of the trial of Judge Warren B. Hooker before both houses in Assembly Chamber, Lieut.- Gov. Bruce presiding, July 10. Wm. B. Gore, many years conducting an antiquary book-store at No. 103 So. Pearl St., prostrated by heat, dies at Homeopathic Hospital, July II. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 789 1905. Highest temperature of the month, 96 degrees, mean for 32 years for this month being 73 degrees, record of July 3, 1898, i3eing 100 degrees, July 18. Legislative trial of Justice Hooker ends in his favor, 76 to 67, July 20. Rear-Admiral Charles Dwight Sigsbee (b. Albany, at No. 20 Spring St., Jan. 16, 1845) arrives at Virginia Capes, commanding the U. S. Cruiser Brooklyn, with the remains of Admiral John Paul Jones, America's first admiral (born at Kirkbean, Kirkcud- brightshire, Scotland, July 6, 1747, son of John Paul, a Scotch gardener, going to Virginia imder assumed name of Jones in 1773, in 1775 being appointed ist lieutenant of the Alfred, a 30-gun frigate in American navy, on April 24, 1778; aboard the Ranger, captured British sloop-of-war, Drake ; sailed on Aug. 14, 1779, in command of the Bonhomme Richard, with four other war vessels about Ireland and Scotland, falling in with the Serapis and others on Sept. 23, 1779, when ensued one of the greatest naval battles ever fought, the Serapis sur- rendering to him; returned to Paris in 1790 and died at Paris on July 18, 1792), the United States government desiring to inter the remains in this country, July 22. Col. Daniel Scott Lamont, whom Gov. S. J. Tilden brought to this city in 1874 to be deputy clerk of the Assembly, becoming connected with The Argus in 1875 as reporter, later managing editor, made Gov. Grover Cleveland's private secretary, and in his first term was secretary to the president, during his second presidential term, 1893-97, the U. S. secretary of war, dies at his summer home at Millbrook, Dutchess Co., of heart failure, being a resident of New York City at the time and connected with its largest enterprises, July 23. Rev. Dr. J. Wilson of Philadelphia addresses certain Episcopalians who oppose the so-called "' high church " service at Sprague Chapel, with the view of organizing a Reformed Episcopal church here, July 23. Milton S. Hoag, prominent liveryman on Willett street, dies, July 24. Albion W. Floyd, expert photographer for illustrative work and collector of numerous negatives of old Albany, dies, July 24. William Mullen burned to death, asleep in stable. No. 154 Church street, Aug. i. Theodore Townsend, many years the treasurer of Albany Savings Bank (appointed 1882), an alderman in 1853 and 1854 (b. Al- bany, Oct. 9, 1827), the son of former Mayor John Townsend, dies at Westport Inn, Westport, on Lake Champlain, Aug. 3. 790 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1905. The John G. Myers Dry Goods Co. store, Nos. 39-41 North Pearl street, collapses at the time the clerks are arriving to open the store, the roof of the immense 6-story building crashing through the cellar, bearing everything with it, entombing about 80 persons and killing 13 clerks, due to insecure underpinning and shoring in the cellar while extensive improvements were under way ; the streets immediately guarded by a cordon of police and all ambulances of the city summoned, at noon the railroads sending up an army of men with picks to remove the debris, and the city officials rendering assistance under direc- tion of Mayor Gaus in person on the scene, Aug. 8. Partial eclipse of the moon visible here, clouding later, Aug. 14. Michael Daley, contractor on many large buildings here, dies at his home. No. 221 North Pearl street, Aug. 19. Cosimo Biele, indicted for murder in February of Edward Red- mond, and Thomas Mart, burglary, saw way out of peniten- tiary, Aug. 20. Inquest of Alyers dry-gcrf^ds store collapse begun by Coroner W. S. Van Guysling, Aug. 21. Albany County Fair opens at Altamont, Aug. 22. Judge John J. Brady elected 2nd vice-president Catholic Young Men's Union at the convention being held in this city, Aug. 22. Census enumeration of last June made public, at this time 98,362, an increase of 4,211 over U. S. Census of 1900, then 94,151, and for the county 171,497, Aug. 23. Stove-mounters' strike at Rathbone, Sard & Co., Aug. 25. John W. Rogers and wife, stopping at Hotel Ten Eyck abandon 6-year-old son and baby, '' Rex,"' who are taken to Lathrop Memorial, Aug. 25. Attorney Frederick E. Wadhams elected treasurer of American Bar Association at convention at Narragansett, Aug. 25. German Day celebration begun by sacred concert in evening at Harmanus Bleecker Hall, Aug. 27. Body recovered on east shore of river near middle bridge of Frank G. Powers, who on 24th jumped from Troy-Albany boat, Aug. 27. German Day parade of fanciful floats in morning, picnic at Dobler Park in afternoon ; Anton Hafner grand marshal and Gustave Zinserling his chief of staff, Aug. 28. Wage scale dispute started on July ist between employees of United Traction Co. and the officers, opens before arbitrators in City Hall, Judge John T. AlcDonough. Lewis E. Carr and Judge J. Rider Cady of Hudson, Aug. 29. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 791 1905. Carl Hagenbeck trained animals here, Aug. 31. Offer of $50,000 made for the Albany horse, Major Delmar, trained by Alta P. McDonald on Troy Road stables, by H. M. Hanna of Cleveland, Aug. 31. Hon. William Barnes, Sr., delivers important address on arbitration at a peace conference held at the Shaker colony, !Mt. Lebanon, N. Y., Sept. I. Labor Day parade of diminished proportions because of heavy downpour, Sept. 4. Judge Judson S. Landon, president of Union College 1884-1888, a familiar figure for years in this city, aged 75, dies at Schenec- tady, Sept. 7. Deaconess Leonard of Troy appointed to place vacated by Mrs. Ellingworth upon her marriage, whose post had been for years at the Luiion Railroad station, Sept. 9. Albany Baseball team, its first year under President Charles M. Winchester, Jr.. terminates the season, fourth in State League, Sept. 10. High and all public schools open, attendance of 1,011 at former, Sept. II. Printers inaugurate strike in publishing plants on demanding sign- ing of agreement to go into effect first day of new year, Sept. II. James Brennan, ex-assemblyman. 1893, and proprietor of Brennan House, No. 5 Green street, dies, Sept. 11. Compositors of The Argus go out because of affiliation with its job department, but the newspaper issues as usual, Sept. 12. Fletcher Barber, of Barber & Bennett, grain, formerly conducting elevator in pier, with office on lower Broadway, dies at Berne Sept. 16. Albanians testify at New York city before the Armstrong Legisla- tive special committee investigating State life insurance com- panies, which assumes intense interest in its development, Sept. 21. Capt. George H. Atkinson, organizer of Albany branch U. S. Vol. Life Saving Corps, aged 53 years, dies, Sept 18. Republican General Committee organizes, electing Senator James B. McEwan president, Luther C. Warner secretary, and George Haswell treasurer, Sept. 22. Wife of Dr. Cyrus S. ]\Ierrill, prominent among local D. A. R. societies, and charitable, dies after brief illness, Sept. 22. Albany Association of National Guard Officers organizes at armory, electing Gen. Frederick Phisterer, of adjutant-general's office (assistant) its president, Sept. 23. 792 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1905. Gideon Hawley dies, Sept. 23. Head-on collision on Albany & Hudson electric road, north of Nas- sau, immediate death of Thomas Loftus, of Rensselaer, motor- man, Sept. 24. Grand jury given J. G. Myers Co. building collapse case, Sept. 25. Republican county convention held at noon in City Hall, Sept. 26. Archibald McGarvey, son of late Michael McGarvey (stove m'f'r), dies, Sept. 26. Democrats hold ist Assembly district convention, Sept. 27. Taylor and Amsdell Brewing companies' stockholders ratify agree- ment to enter Hudson River brewery syndicate, Sept. 27. George C. Van Tuyl, treasurer of Albany Trust Co., testifies before the Armstrong insurance investigating committee at New York, Sept. 27. Democrats hold 3rd Assembly district convention, Sept. 28. Democrats hold 4th Assembly district convention, Watervliet, Sept. 29. H!ebrew New Year's celebrated, Sept. 30. Wheeler H. Peckham, prominent New York City attorney (born at Albany, Jan. i, 1833, son of late Judge Rufus W. Peckham, Sr. (who was lost at sea on the Ville de Havre), dies in that city, Sept. 27, and Albany Bar Association attends his funeral at Rural Cemetery, Sept. 30. Fourth Reformed Church, Rev. Fr. ]\Iueller celebrates Golden Jubi- lee, Oct. I. Ancients and Honorables arrive from Boston and parade, Oct. 2. Hallowe'en committee of Carnival appoints Miss Catherine Hess to be " Queen Titania ;" Anna Stolz, " Goddess of Liberty ;" Eliz- abeth Gregory, " Cinderella." and Ellis J. Staley as " Prince Charming," Oct. 2. Ancients and Honorables banquet at Hotel Ten Eyck, Oct. 3. Republican city convention held at City Hall, renominating Major Charles H. Gaus for mayor, Oct. 3. Hon. John Battersby, elected county treasurer in 1884, re-elected 1887, butcher for many years at n. w. corner North Pearl and Clinton avenue, and known throughout the county as "Honest" John Battersby, dies, Oct. 3. Usual large fall excursion from Boston arrives, and Ancients and Honorables military body departs on the day boat, Oct. 4. Republican Third Judicial district convention held at noon at Un- conditional Club's building on south side of Beaver street, nom- inating Surrogate George H. Fitts to succeed Judge George D. B. Hasbronck, Oct. 5. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 793 1905. Louis Ziriax of this city, acting as chauffeur^ fatally injured by his automobile colliding at West Newton, Mass.^ with motor-car, Oct. 8. Hebrew feast of Yom Kippur, Day of Atonement, celebrated, Oct. 9. Veteran Fireman's Ass'n of Philadelphia arrive and parade, Oct. 9. Democratic city convention held at evening in the City Hall, nomi- nating Dr. William J. Wansboro for mayor, Oct. 10. Second large fall excursion party this year from Boston, Oct. 11. Annual parade of fire and police departments, commanded by Fire Chief Michael E. Higgins and Chief of Police James L. Hyatt, Oct. II. V^eteran Firemen's Ass'n depart for Newburgh and Philadelphia, Oct. II. Dr. William Olin Stillman elected president of the American Hu- mane Society in convention at Philadelphia, Oct. 12. Democratic county convention held at noon at City Hall, nominat- ing ticket headed by Harry H. Walsh for county treasurer, Oct. 12. Italian societies parade in commemoration of the 413th anniversary of the arrival of Columbus in America, Oct. 12. Legislative funeral train passes through at 2:15 a. m. from New York to Westfield, Chautauqua county, to attend funeral of Speaker S. Fred Nixon, and Governor Higgins joins the party, Oct. 13. First registration day's figures: 9,432; in 1904 was 12,568; in 1903. was 8,492; in 1902 was 7,896, Oct. 13. Total registration for first Friday and Saturday registration in city, 15,662; in 1903 (last municipal election) was 14,399, being an increase of 1,263 registrations, Oct. 14. John P. Bailly, merchant tailor of No. yy North Pearl street, dies at his home. No. 133 Eagle street, after illness of four years, Oct. 14. Grand jury fails to indict in Myers building disaster, Oct. 16. George Roark, many years conducting lumber-yard and planing- mill at foot of North Ferry street, for past 20 years a resident of Fladley, N. Y., aged 86 years, dies there, Oct. 18. Alexander Selkirk, inventor and patent lawyer of many years, No. 31 North Pearl street (b. Bethlehem, July 18, 1830, living on farm of his grandfather, James Selkirk, a Revolutionary fighter, after whom town is named), dies at his home, No. 284 Clinton avenue, after illness, Oct. 18. James Farrell, prominent contractor, dies at Albany Hospital, Oct. 19. 794 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1905. Gov. Frank W. Higgins appoints Wni. Bayard Van Rensselaer, Dr. Samuel B. Ward, Senator David B. Hill and Donald McDon- ald (pres. Chamber of Commerce) on the ter-centennial com- mittee to celebrate 300th anniversary of discovery of the Hud- son river, Oct. 19. Edward F. Hughes thrown from wagon at South Pearl and Beaver, in a runaway, and dies at Homeopathic Hospital, Oct. 23, Work begun on new river intake for water supply, Oct. 23. King Fountain covered for winter and park made ready for cold, Oct. 23. William Sautter, prominent druggist at No. 8 North Pearl street, dies of heart failure at Hoffman House, New York City, aged 47, Oct. 24. Death of widow of Capt. Edgar V. Denison, No. loi Columbia street, Oct. 24. New York State Supreme Court eulogizes Marcus T. Hun on com- pletion of his 30 years as court reporter, and orders resolution printed in the last volume issued under his supervision, Oct. 25. Earliest killing frost of the season, Oct. 25. Archibald J- McClure's residence. No. 483 State street, robbed of considerable jewelry by fictitious telephone lineman, Oct. 25. Hon. Robert G. Scherer, graduate of Cornell, admitted lawyer, 1882 ; member board of public instruction, assemblyman two terms, miscellaneous court reporter ; board of examiners general term (b. Albany, March 20, 1861), dies at his home, No. 618 Madison avenue, Oct. 28. John G. Burch, who opened grocery, coal and wood yard in West Albany in 1873, elected alderman in 1871, re-elected and chosen president of Common Council, and during mayoralty contest between George H. Thacher and E. L. Judson, Feb. 2- April 20, 1874, acting mayor, aged 78, dies at his home, No. 2 Watervliet avenue, Nov. i. Albany Garage Co., recently organized, buys Nos. 28-30 Howard street, Nov. i. President Roosevelt proclaims Nov. 30th set apart as a day of Thanksgiving. Nov. 2. Major Charles H. Gaus re-elected the Mayor of Albany at the Charter election held this day. receiving 151,915 votes as the Republican candidate ; his opponent. Dr. William J- Wansboro, receiving 7,379 votes as the Democratic candidate ; void, 199 votes; blank, 314 votes; others, 11 votes; total number of votes cast, 23,818; Gaus' majority over Wansboro being 8,536 votes, he is declared elected the Mayor of Albany, Nov. 7. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 795 1905. Gov. Frank W. Higgins sets apart Nov. 30th as Thanksgiving, Nov. 8. Earliest autumn snow of the season, Nov. 9. Myers building disaster case given to grand jury 2nd time, Nov. 13. Ground covered with snow, Nov. 13. John G. Myers Dry Goods Co., having been open temporarily at No. 69 North Pearl street, entirely burned out by fire starting in engine room in the basement at I a. m., Nov. 15. Sale of United Traction stock at $150 to D. & H. railroad interests, Nov. 18. Unitarian meeting-house on south side of Lancaster, near Eagle street re-dedicated after serious fire. Rev. Robert Collyer of New York officiating. Rev. Thomas S. Robjent, pastor, pre- siding, Nov. 19. Rev. Joseph Addison Jones preaches his initial sermon at Madison Avenue (Second) Dutch Reformed Church, Nov. 19. Coating of ice on Washington Park lake, Nov. 19. Bishop Doane opens annual convention of the Episcopal diocese of Albany at Cathedral of All Saints, characteristic address, Nov. 21. Board of County Canvassers report returns of Charter election held on November 7th, completing tabulation, Nov. 21. Reformed Episcopal Chiirch, having organized here, extends a call to Rev. Dr. Frederick H. Reynolds of Philadelphia, Nov. 19. Ice solid across Washington Park lake, Nov. 22. Discovery of the dead body of Mrs. Ella Wilbur-Cramp Hammond crowded into a trunk in the fireplace of her parlor of their home, No. 42 South Ferry street, near Green, Nov. 23. Celebration throughout the country of the 250th anniversary of the settlement of Jews in America, Nov. 24. Messrs. Dyer and Daggett arraigned on charge of negligence for the Myers building collapse disaster, pleading not guilty, Nov. 2'J. Erie canal closed for the season, Nov. 28. Thanksgiving Day observed, following proclamations of President Roosevelt and Governor Higgins, Nov. 30. The John G. Myers Dry Goods Co., having been burned out of temporary quarters at No. 69 North Pearl street, opens in The Boston Co.'s dry goods store at s. e. corner North Pearl and Steuben streets, site of the home of Gov. DeWitt Clinton, who died there Feb. 11, 1828, Dec. 2. The Rogers children who had been abandoned by parents at Hotel Ten Eyck during summer and cared for at Lathrop Memorial Home, adopted legally by man and wife of New Jersey, Dec. 2. 796 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1905. Last tow of, the season departs southward, Dec. 2. The B. P. O. Elks, No. 49 of Albany, holds anniversary service at Harnianus Bleecker Hall, honoring the memory of the year's deceased, John AI. Davis, treasurer of The Albany Evening Journal Co. ; Julius Fish, tobacco ; and Harry K. Morris, Dec. 3. Stuart G. Speir, who had conducted for some years a typewriter agency in this city, removed recently to Schenectady, dies suddenly there, Dec. 4. Hon. James Russell Parsons, Jr., appointed consul-general to Mexico by President Roosevelt, following long service as sec- retary to the Board of Regents, with residence at No. 22 Elk street, killed in a collision between his vehicle and train at the City of Mexico, Dec. 5. Old Guard of Co. A banquet at Fort Orange Club, George Has- well, toastmaster, Dec. 6. Rev. Roelif Hasbrouck Brooks of Poughkeepsie accepts the rector- ship of St. Paul's Church, Dec. 9. Edwin H. Anderson, of the Carnegie Library at Pittsburg, ap- pointed State Librarian (director), Dec. 15. Steamboat C. W. Morse leaves on last trip of the season, Dec. 15. River closed to navigation (Government record), Dec. 15. Arthur Strong, who had accompanied J. C. Hammond to the west after the body of Hammond's wife was found in a trunk at their residence. No. 42 South Ferry street, on Nov. 23rd, ar- rives at Albany and tells of their adventures on the Pacific coast, Dec. 18. Frank B. Gilbert appointed State Law Librarian by Commissioner Draper, Dec. 20. Rt. Rev. AJon'r Francis Alaguire dons the purple robe of his new office, at St. Patrick's Church, Bishop Burke officiating, Dec. 21. Lester W. Bloch appointed L'nited States commissioner, Dec. 22. Suit instituted before Justice Hasbrouck against Ouayle & Son, en- gravers, by Brandow Printing Co., for $100,000, Dec. 23. John L. Godley resigns as superintendent of Albany Hospital, which office he had held since opening of new building, Dec. 24. Rumor that Miss Elsie Smith, former " Queen Titania " of Hallow- e'en carnival, had been sent poisoned candy, Dec. 26. James W. Wadsworth arrives to contest with Assemblyman Edwin Merritt the appointment of speaker of Assembly, eliciting much speculation because of the alleged split in Republican party, Dec' 28. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 797 1905. John De Peyster Townsend, who had conducted a drug store for more than a score of years at s. e. corner of Eagle street and Maiden Lane (b. Albany, June 4, 1839), the son of John Fonda Townsend and Catherine Louisa Douw, dies at his home, same location, Dec. 28. Charity ball held at Odd Fellows' Hall, Dec. 29. Newton B. Vanderzee appointed surrogate of Albany county, Dec. 30. 1906. Major Charles LL Gaus assumes office the third successive time as the Mayor of Albany, having been chosen by the people at the Charter election held on Nov. 7, 1905, when a majority of 8,536 votes of a total of 23,818 votes were cast in his favor, and he was declared properly elected by the board of can- vassers, Jan. I. The body of Hon. James Russell Parsons, who was killed on Dec. 5th, last, in a railway accident in the City of Mexico, where he was the U. S. consul-general, having previously been for some years the secretary of the Board of Regents, arrives at Albany and is placed in the Rural Cemetery vault, Jan. i. George C. Lee, assistant cashier of Albany County Bank (b. Al- bany), aged 42 years, dies suddenly at his home. No. 471 State street leaving a number of liberal charitable bequests, Jan. i. Common Council convenes at noon at the City Hall, President Wil- liam F. Burnham in the chair, and the board listens to the message of Mayor Gaus ; electing Frederick U. Bresler clerk, and Alderman Rollin B. Sanford chosen Republican party leader at the caucus, Jan. 2. Hon. John A. McCall, former Albanian and State superintendent, in failing health, resigns as president of the New York Life Lisurance Co., which he had made through his energy one of the greatest business institutions in the United States, Jan. 3. Excitement throughout the city over contest for speaker of Assem- bly, results in the election of James W. Wads worth. Jr., follow- ing rumors of President Roosevelt exerting his influence in State politics, Jan. 3. Funeral of Hon. James Russell Parsons, accidentally killed in Mexico, Dec. 5, 1905, conducted by Bishop Doane at All Saints' Cathedral, Jan. 6. 798 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1906. Rev. Frederick H. Reynolds assumes rectorship of the newly organ- ized Reformed Episcopal Chnrcli of the Atonement, a deflec- tion from St. Andrew's, in Cameron Hall on Central avenue, Jan. 7. Rev. E. R. Allen made pastor of Hope Baptist Cluuxh, Jan. 7. N. Y. State Normal College destroyed totally by one of the most spectacular conflagrations in years, the wind spreading the flames rapidly from the Willett street front to the rear near Lark street, part of the residence of President William J. Milne, in southern portion of the building, being only part of structure saved; building erected in 1885; Edward Ogden & Son, archi- tects ; loss over $200,000, insurance about $80,000 ; started at 8:15 p. m., probably caused by electric light wires, and burned until forenoon following day. witnessed by thousands of citi- zens, who aided in removal of valuable papers, books and pictures, Jan. 8. Charles J. Buchanan elected president of Albany County Bar Asso- ciation, Jan. 9. Second Battalion opens poultry show at the armory, Jan. 10. Daniel G. Curtis, who entered the employ of the New York State National Bank on April 9, 1853, and was paying teller for more than a quarter of a century, retiring on Thanksgiving Day, 1903, with a present of $1,000 in gold, because of a serious accident, aged 69 years, dies at the home of his son-in-law at Cooperstown, Jan. 10. Captain George W. Oliver of the Third Police Precinct (b. Bethle- hem, May 19, 1844), dies, Jan. 10. Thomas H. Craven, supervisor of 5th ward 1871, clerk board of supervisors 1 877-1 885, city marshal June i, 1886, clerk of Common Council, 1889-1893, aged 64. dies in New York City, Jan. 15. Franchise and property of the United Traction Co. passes to the D. & H. Railroad valued at $7,500,000, Jan. 15. N. Y. State Ass'n of School Commissioners and Superintendents holds first annual meeting at Capitol, addressed by Thomas E. Finegan of State Dep't of Education, Jan. 15. Alumni Ass'n of State Normal College elects officers, choosing John A. Hill, Schenectady, president. Jan. 15. Mrs. A. H. Noble, mother-in-law of Governor Pliggins, dies at his Olean home, and he departs for there, abandoning public recep- tion, Jan. 16. State Bar Association addressed in Assembly Chamber by Hon. Charles E. Littlefield, congressman of Alaine, Jan. 16. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 799 1906. Sons of Helderberg War annual banquet, F. F. Crannell, Jr., toast- master, Jan. 17. Capt. Frank DeWitt Ramsey, U. S. A., who was highly commended for his efficiency in forwarding- stores from Florida to the troops in Cuba during the Spanish-American war and who set an example for executive ability, precision and efficiency in supplying American troops during the " Boxer " troubles in China, superior management to that of any of the other armies forcing the relief of the besieged at the legations at Pekin, a graduate of the Albany Academy and of West Point on June 14, 1885, dies at Washington, D. C, Jan. i8. Burns Club's annual meeting, electing Chas. H. Turner president, Jan. 18. Lumber-yard of F. F. Crannell, Jr.. North Ferry and Lawrence streets, burned at 9 p. m., with loss of about $40,000, Jan. 20. Hon. Franklin M. Danaher. attorney, elected vice-president of American-Irish Llistorical Society, Jan. 21. Rev. James N. Knipe assumes charge of Park United Presbyterian Church, s. e. corner Western and Lake avenues, Jan. 21. Capt. Frank DeWitt Ramsey's body arrives at 2:30 a. m., from Washington, with family and Major Francis H. Schoefifel, L". S. A., and accompanied by former Albany friends is taken to Cobleskill for burial, Jan. 22. Unconditional Republican Club sells its house, No. 46 Beaver street, Jan. 23. Robert R. Topping, formerly with the Albany Brewing Co., dies at Amsterdam (burial in Rural Cemetery), his previous home, Jan. 22. Dr. Mary Walker, in customary male attire throughout, addresses Assembly Codes committee in favor of Eagleton bill abolishing capital punishment, Jan. 24. State Superintendent of Public Works Franchot calls attention in report to Legislature that Albany needs a system of sewage disposal, Jan. 24. Chamber of Commerce annual banquet at Hotel Ten Eyck, James F. McElroy, president; William H. McElroy of New York (former Albanian), toastmaster, Jan. 27. Towboat George B. Cooley succeeds in arriving from New York, Jan. 28. Ex-President Grover Cleveland and wife (Frances Folsom) arrive and are guests of Dr. and Mrs. Samuel B. Ward at No. 281 State street, Jan. 29. 800 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1906. Edward Sayles, who organized a company of volunteers during Civil War (b. Albany, Oct. 30, 1847. and graduate of Albany Academy), dies here, Jan. 29. Ex-President Cleveland addresses Legislature in Assembly Cham- ber at noon, and the State Medical Society in Emmanuel Bap- tist Church in evening, also attending dinner given by Mrs. Daniel Manning at her home. No. 153 Washington avenue, Jan. 30. Hyacinths in bloom, because of the warm, unseasonable weather, in yard of Albert Burgess, No. 642 Central avenue, Jan. 30. Mme. Sarah Bernhardt, leading French actress, in " Camille " and " La Sorciere " at Harmanus Bleecker Hall, Feb. 5. J. G. Myers Co. commences building foundations of the new dry goods store at same site as the previous one, Nos. 39-41 North Pearl street, Trowbridge & Livingston, architects, February. F. Hopkinson Smith, author, speaks on " Plantation Days " at The Albany Institute to a crowded assembly-room, Feb. 8. Albany Hospital elects J. Townsend Lansing president, Feb. 11. Leonard Kip, author of ten or more novels written with greatest delicacy of thought and language, principal among them " The Dead Marquise," Putnam, 1873; attorney with office former years in Tweddle building, graduate of Trinity College, presi- dent of The Albany Institute several years, and at time of death president of Albany Academy trustees (b. New York City, Sept. 13, 1826, son of Leonard and Maria Ingraham Kip), a " Forty-niner " from Albany to California gold fields then booming, dies at his home. No. 20 Elk street, Feb. 13. Frank Lasch, police headquarters sergeant, promoted grade of cap- tain, Feb. 14. Alfred Booth, known as " Angel," veteran doorkeeper at Central Railroad station for 15 years, dies of heart failure, Feb. 15. George I. Amsdell, head of Amsdell Brewing Co. (b. Kinderhook, Sept. 3, 1827), dies at his home. No. 141 Washington avenue, Feb. 17. Hon. John A. McCall, born at Albany on March 2, 1849, made • State superintendent of insurance on April 23, 1883, resigning to become comptroller of the Equitable Life Insurance Co. on Jan. I, 1886, and becoming president of the N. Y. Life Insur- ance Co. on Feb. 12. 1892, a resident of New York City, with new summer place, " Shadow Lawn," at Long Branch, N. J., dies after a serious illness of three months, at the Laurel House, Lakewood, N. J., Feb. 18. Funeral of the late Hon. John Augustine ]\lcCall at Church of the Blessed Sacrament, Ijishop Thomas ^1. A. Burke of Albany, No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 80I 1906. • officiating, following a brief service at his home. No. 54 W. 72nd street, and burial at Chestnut Hill, Woodlawn Cemetery, Feb. 21. Mohawk river ice breaks up and passes down before the city, Feb. 22. Parade of Co. B, " Washington Continentals," and banquet, Feb. 22. Charles E. Leland, former proprietor of Delavan House, after whom theatre on South Pearl street named, dies, Feb. 27. Chester F. Dearstyne, tobacco dealer, made superintendent Albany County Penitentiary in 1896 (b. Berne, July 22, 1851), dies, March 7. Charles Hitte, local welterweight of some note, wins on foul from Matty Mathews at a Troy road resort, 12 rounds, March 7. Fort Orange Club elects Charles L. Pruyn its president, March 10. Hiram J. Rockwell, proprietor of Hotel Ten Eyck, former proprie- tor of Hotel Kenmore and of Wayside Inn at Lake Luzerne (b. Luzerne, 1834), dies in his apartments in Hotel Ten Eyck, March 10. William Lane, owner of a string of fast horses, dies, March. Judge Andrew Flamilton delivers a forceful philippic before the Armstrong insurance investigating committee in Assembly Chamber, March 15. Dr. Samuel IL Freeman, practicing here more than half a century, president board of curators of Albany Medical College, dies at his home, n. w. corner Columbia and Chapel streets, March 15. Herman W. Vanderpoel, son of the late Dr. Samuel Oakley Vander- poel, graduate of Albany Academy in 1873; Rutgers, 1877, dies at Boston, March 16. Irish societies go to Cohoes to parade, March 17. Steamer C. W. Morse leaves New York on first trip of season, March 22. River open to navigation (Government record). March 23. Oliver A. Quayle elected president of N. Y. State Automobile As- sociation, March 24. Mrs. Bridget Coleman, widow of John Coleman, oldest woman in city, aged 105 years and 11 months (b. Westmeath, Ire., April,, 1800), dies at her home, No. 31 Spruce street, March 25. Lewis E. Carr, the orator at the Speaker Samuel Frederick Nixon memorial exercises in the Assembly Chamber, March 27. Judge Andrew Hamilton re-elected president of the Albany Club and presented with a silver loving-cup by his club friends, March 29. 802 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1906. • Isaac J. Hungerford dies at home. No. 324 Hudson avenue, aged 4], March 30. Col. Freeman Connor, one of the original Zouaves under Colonel Ellsworth, enrolled in 44th N. Y. Vols., Aug. 8, 1861, mustered as captain of Co. D, Sept. 3, 1861, dies at Valparaiso, Ind., March. Old Lumber District firm of Douglas L. White & Co. dissolved, March 31. Steamboat Hendrick Hudson, Hudson River Day Line, launched at Newburgh, March 31. Robins in Washington Park, but lake ice solid, April 3. Ice out of lake in Washington Park, April 6. Mrs. -Oralie Bartlett Ditson, widow of George Leighton Ditson, (mother of late Lina Bartlett Ditson, Albany author of three historical novels) dies at her home, No. 259 State street, April 7. Leonard Gansevoort Ten Eyck, head of the insurance underwriting firm of Ten Eyck & Lansing at No. 48 State street (b. Albany, 1838), graduate of Albany Academy, with summer residence at Castleton, dies suddenly at his home. No. 9 South Hawk street, April 8. Heavy snow all day, latest spring snow of the season, April 9. Albany College of Pharmacy commencement, April 10. Albany Academy Cadets guidon drill at armory, Co. C, under Capt. William Herrick, awarded guidons by Adj.-Gen. Nelson H. Henry, April 11. King Fountain winter covering removed, April 11. Governor Higgins signs bill (Good Friday) of Senator Mead, in- corporating the William Croswell Doane Fund for Christian Work, April 13. Mayor Gaus orders removal of the brass inlaid in the marble of the meridian line, some forty feet in length, laid down by Mayor Thacher touching the southwest corner of the City Hall, be- cause of numerous accidents caused by it in winter, resulting in suits against the city, April 13. William J. Weaver, real estate agent, elected supervisor, 1868- 1871, appointed city assessor by Mayor Thacher and holding the position until igoo (b. Coeymans, Jan. 27, 1835), dies at his home, No. 121 Hamilton street, of heart trouble, April 14. Henry C. Littlefield elected president of University Club, April 14. Easter, rain all day creating a 4-ft. freshet in river, so that steam- boat Morse takes on passengers at Gansevoort street, April 15. Memorial windows unveiled at special Easter service of music and eulogy in memory of Rev. Edward Griffin Selden, pastor of S H -5 "^ 1 o. ° Q ^ ■^ 5 -S C) C oj Oj wl 0^ ^ ^ -° O •*- "*- o CO T3 O ;_ (u ~ 3 3 rt C ^^ p ^ c/l ) < O a; a. o -a c o bib 3 < cq ■ii o. .9" ^ O -6 o o 'n UJ q ui H O to u LO « >1 <^ -o <;j I— . u rtf lO rt c aj ro G. n! 00 OS be u 0^ C ID \o •^ s O O cS ^H C (-^ o en o IT) 1-1 bo 15 ro t^ u °0 bo O 3 S ii bJ3 c « ^ -^ ■" -*-» t~^ -4-> O ^ ^ No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 803 1906. Madison Avenue Protestant Dutch Reformed Church, 1893 to 1904 (b. June 9, 1847, <^ied at Saratoga, June 2, 1904), Rev. Joseph A. Jones speaking of his Hfe and ministry, April 15. New steamboat of Hudson River Day Line, Henry Hudson, taken in tow at Newburgh by the Cornell Line, to the C. W. Fletcher Co., Hoboken, to have engines installed, April 15. Joel Rathbone Ransom, formerly of Albany, eldest son of late Samuel H. Ransom, stove manufacturer, dies at Elizabeth, N. J., April 15. Adj. -Gen. N. LL Henry reviews F. R. Palmer United Spanish- American War Veterans at the armory, April 16. Water high in river, submerging wheels of West Shore trains, April 16. The James B. Lyon Co., largest printing firm in the city, astonishes people by blowing whistle loudly at 11 a. m., as announcement of completion in entirety of the printing in eight days, by three shifts, of the seven large volumes containing report of the Armstrong Legislative committee investigating insurance com- panies, comprising 7,000 pages, being over 12,000,000 ems in 8 working days, April 16. Superintendent of Schools Charles W. Cole recommends a second High School, to be located in western part of city because pres- ent building on Eagle street seats 719, with 981 students at- tending and an average daily attendance of 883 pupils, April 16. Master Plumbers' Association yields to demands of Plumbers* Union No. 7, ending a serious strike of two weeks' duration, April 17. Latest killing frost of the season, April 17. Earthquake disaster at San Francisco of great seriousness, a score of Albanians present, and relief fund is started here at once, April 18. Report that Robert P. Murphy, formerly hotel-keeper of Washing- ton, D. C. of recent years proprietor of the Kenmore (■' New "), disposes of this hotel to J. A. Oakes of Buffalo for about $117,000, April 19. Chamber of Commerce seriously discusses establishment of a new freight line by river to New York because of the alleged high rates. April 20. Albany Baseball team starts spring tour at Toronto, Canada, April 21. Mayor Gaus transmits $10,000, subscribed by citizens for relief of San Francisco earthquake sufferers, April 23. 804 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1906. Severe killing frost at night, this also being the average date for latest killing frost for 30 years, April 24. Public Market locations sold to farmers for the year, bringing a total of $1,370, at auction, April 24. Dr. Albert Vander Veer's nomination as a Regent confirmed by both houses of the Legislature, April 26. Mayor Gaus transmits $5,000 raised by citizens, as first contribution to relief of San Francisco earthquake sufferers, April 2b. Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society, being in need of larger building and having a fund of $60,000, raised in $1,000 gifts, accepts the plans of Fuller & Pitcher for new building to be built on north side of Washington avenue, east of Dove street, April 2y. Henry E. Hawley, general manager of Hudson River Telephone Co., a prominent member of Masonic bodies and popular mem- ber of Albany Club, dies, April 27. The Albany fund for San Francisco earthquake sufferers reaches $17.-524, April 28. Open motor cars put on for this day only, April 29. Rev. F. A. Line installed at All Souls' LTniversalist Church, April 29. Senate in session until 2 a. m. on mortgage tax bill l)ccause of dead- lock. May 2. Legislature adjourns, May 3, Arbor Day celebrated, with fair weather, school exercises. May 4. John G. Mills, son of Charles D. jNIills, lover of horses, coin col- lector, pigeon fancier, dies at his home. No. 921 Madison avenue. May 7. Albany Baseball team opens season at vSyracuse, Charles M. Win- chester, Jr., manager. May 10. Joseph A. Lansing, former banker (pres. Albany Exchange Savings Bank), dies at home in Menands, aged 78, May 11. John Plungerford dies at his home, No. 338 Hudson avenue. May 13. Albany Institute and Historical and Art Society holds its annual meeting at its building, No. 176 State street, electing James Ten Eyck president a second time, May 14. State contracts let amounting to about $3,000,000 for work on barge canal near this city (Waterford. Scotia and Rotterdam). May 14! Reported that Robert P. Murphy pays $150,000 to the Mac Naugh- ton estate for the New Kenmore hotel property on North Pearl street, May 14. No. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 805 1906. Steamer New York arrives, inaugurating day line season, May 15. Open cars put on street lines for season. May 15. Col. Charles E. Davis leaves the armory with the Second Battalion for scene of strike at Sutton & Sudderly's brickyards at Coey- mans, where one of the employees had been shot and brought to Albany Hospital, and at 9:53 p. m. Lieutenant Denn takes members not arrived in time to go with Battalion, May 16. Dr. Henry Hun elected secretary of Association of American Phy- sicians, convening at Washington, D. C, May 16. Troop B leaves on horseback for scene of strike at Coeymans, 4 :30 P- m., ' ^/^^y jg Second Battalion returns by boat and Troop B by river road on horseback, from scene of the brickyard strike at Sutton & Sud- derly's plant at Coeymans, differences being settled by arbitra- tion in the face of the State militia. May 21. First engine runs into the Lumber District. May 23. Schuyler Egerton, son of Superintendent of Parks Wm. S. Eger- . to"' dies, May'^26. United Traction Co. has record in passenger traffic. Decoration Day, carrying 175,080 passengers ; receipts, $7,929.76, May 30. Law School commencement. Gen. A. J. Parker presiding, May 31. Dr. Simon F. Cox, of Boston, appointed superintendent of Albany Hospital, succeeding John L. Godley (who resigned Dec. 24th, the first to hold the office in the new building on New Scot- land avenue), y^^j^g j Young baseball players arrested in Beaver Park at behest of a few of the city clergy. Fourth Presbyterian Church in particular, for playing ball on Sunday, June 3' Death of Cornelia Flubbard. w^fe of Oscar L. Hascy, retired lumber merchant, and mother of Mrs. Horace G. Young, a woman whose life was devoted to her home and relief of the unfortu- nate, at her residence. No. 2 Englewood Place, June 3. Barnum & Bailey circus, No. Albany grounds ; downpour, Time 5. William A. Humphrey, chief detective of N. Y. Central road, with office in this city, elected president of Ass'n of Railway Police of the U. S. and Canada Secret Service, convening at Wash- . ington, j,^ne g William Stetson Corliss, who after graduating at Albany Academy in 1888, became an amateur actor and developed into a come- dian of prominence, playing first with the amateurs locally in "The Buccaneers" and "Peter Stuyvesant;" then with' De Koven & Smith in " The Highwayman ;" afterwards with Frank Daniels, appearing in leading role in his popular comic 8o6 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1906. operas as understudy, while in New York preparing for lead- ing role in " The Student King," dies there suddenly, June 6. Judge Gregory discharges the Sunday amateur baseball players, who were arrested as a test case at Beaver Park ball grounds previous Sunday, June 7. 'Mayor Gaus signs ordinance for paving with macadam Western avenue from termination of present pavement to the city line, June 7. Rev. Edward P. Johnson of First Reformed Dutch Ghurch accepts the chair of church history at the New Brunswick Seminary, June 9. Judge John J. Brady discharges Sunday amateur ball players, June II. Albany Academy, 93rd commencement, Theodore D. Walser vale- dictorian, June 14. Sunday baseball by amateurs in city parks resumed without inter- ference by the police, following Judge Gregory's decision. June 17. William A. Rice (father of Col. William G. Rice) formerly of the A. McClure & Co. drug firm, and chairman Albany County Democratic Committee, (b. March i8, 1820), dies at his home, Worthington, Mass., June 17. Local automobile club starts on tour to Boston via Vermont, June 21. Superintendent William J. Wallace of the Albany Orphan Asylum, dies there, June 22. Rev. Thos. S. Robjent resigns as pastor Unitarian Church, June 24. The extensive collection of fossils and minerals made by the late Prof. James Hall, head of the N. Y. State Museum and paleon- tologist of widest note (decorated by almost every country with honors) sold to agent of John D. Recke feller for the Uni- versity of Chicago, at the rumored sum of $30,000, July 2. Mrs. Harriette Delavan. wife of John W. McHarg and daughter of the late Edward C. Delavan Towner of Delavan House on Broadway), dies at her home. No. 23 Elk st., Julv 4. Independence Day parade by military bodies, exercises attended by the orphans in Washington Park, and fireworks in evening at Beaver Park, July 4. Maj. William Henry Paddock, many years connected with the stafif of the Albany Evening Journal, and establishing repu- tation writing " The Vagrant " liumorous sketches, a popular member of Albany Burgesses' Corps and of the Albany Press Club, dies at his home. No. 107 Lark st., July 6. Xo. 62. CHARLES HENRY GAUS. 807 1906. Charles Lansing Pruyn, president of the Albany Embossing Co. on Pruyn street, of the Albany Forge Co., and of the Fort Orange Club, a trustee of a number of educational, art and bus- iness organizations, the son of U. S. Minister to Japan Robert Hewson Pruyn, born at Albany Dec. 2, 1852, graduate of Albany Academy and of Rutgers College in 1871, with residence at No. I Park Place, facing on Academy Park, dies after brief illness at his summer home at Altamont, July 7. Mayor Gaus writes official letter to Gov. Higgins voicing the senti- ments of citizens that the State in considering a site for the proposed new library and museum building allow the Albany Academy to remain and suggesting the block bounded by Washington avenue. Hawk, and Lafayette streets and Park Place, as the one preferred by citizens to be so used, July 11. Races for the season inaugurated at Woodlawn Park south of New Scotland road, July 11. State Engineer Van Alstyne submits plans affecting neighborhood of Albany in construction of the barge canal. Contract No. 14, proposing a dam at Crescent 1,200 feet long, 28 feet high, costing about $1,100,000, to flood 3,000 acres as a lake by back- ing up the Mohawk for 10 miles to Visscher's Ferry; it being intended to extend the Loudon Road thereto, July 11. Electric trolley line to Altamont discussed, July 15. Rev. Edwin F. See, pastor of Third Reformed Dutch Church 1883- 1886, then for 20 years the general secretary of the Brooklyn Y. M. C. A. over its 15 branches, (b. Tarrytown, educated at Rutgers College and seminary at New Brunswick, N. J.) aged 46 years, dies at Northport, N. Y., July 18. Albany & Hudson electric road plans to double-track to Kinder- hook to avoid dangerous switches, Jwly 19. Mary Elizabeth Manning, daughter of the late Daniel Manning (secretary of treasury under Cleveland and previously editor of the Argus) and wife of Jules Von der Oudermeulen, of Holland, dies in New York city, July 20. Mrs. Mary A. Low, widow of Edwin Dean Worcester (to whom extensive credit is due for the executive work of combinins: the original railroads from New York city across the state into one road, and secretary of the N. Y. Central & Hudson River railroad for a long period), aged 66, dies at Stonington, Conn., (burial in Rural Cemetery), July 20. Natural gas well discovered on James Hilton's farm near Voor- heesville, while boring 150 feet, throws stone and earth 200 feet into the air, July 20. 8o8 CHARLES HENRY GAUS. No. 62. 1906. Fifth U. S. Infantry from Plattsburg barracks encamps on its march to Mt. Gretna, Pa., at Stuyvesant Falls, July 22. Two Hundred and Twentieth Anniversary of Albany as a city, July 22. Death of Dexter Reynolds, at his home, No. 98 Columbia street ; well-known attorney and inventor; born Dec. 22, 1828, (only son of the late Marcus T. Reynolds and Elizabeth Ann Dexter) eighth in descent from John Reynolds who came to America in 1634 and settled at Watertown, Mass. ; Sigma Phi and Latin salutatorian. Union College, 1848, Harvard Scientific School and Harvard Law School, 1850; admitted to the bar at Albany, Dec. 2. 185 1 ; author of an authoritative legal work on life insurance, 1853, Aug. 19, " / cni'y not the man zclwsc Jwiicst glance Takes in our past — zvar, business or romance — Our martial annals, or the large display Of genius, beauty, serious life or gay. Who cannot recognise all through our story. Our genuine claim to real substantial glory." Bi-Centcnnial Ode, 1886. \VM. D. MORAXGE. n^a^ors' Successive XTenns* (Appointed by Governor.) 1st. Pieter Schuyler: July 22, 1686 — Oct. 13, 1694. 2nd. Johannes Abeel : Oct. 14, 1694 — Oct. 14, 1695. 3rd. Evert Bancker; Oct. 15, 1695 — Sept. 28, 1696. 4th. Dirck Wesselse ten Broeck; Sept 29. 1696^ — Oct. 13. 1698. 5th. Hendrick Hansen: Oct. 14, 1698 — 1699. 6th. Pieter Van Brugh (Verbrugge) ; 1699 — 1700. 7th. Jan Jansen Bleecker : — Nov. 5. 1701. 8th. Johannes Bleecker. Jun. : Xov. 6, 1701 — 1702. 9th. Albert Janse Ryckman : 1702 — Oct. 25. 1703. loth. Johannes Schuyler; Oct. 26. 1703 — Xov. 10. 1706. nth. David Davidse Schuyler; Nov. 11. 1706 — Oct. 31. 1707. 3rd. Evert Bancker; Nov. i. 1707 — Oct. 22. 1708. 3rd. Evert Bancker; Oct. 2^, 1708 — Nov. 28. 1709. 2nd. Johannes Abeel; Nov. 29, 1709 — Nov. 23, 1710. I2th. Robert Livingston, Jun.; Nov. 24, 1710 — i/iQ- 13th. ^lyndert Schuyler: 1719 — Nov 8. 1720. 6th. Pieter Van Brugh rA'erbrugge") : Nov. 9. 1720 — 1723- T3th. Myndert Schuyler; 1723 — Oct. 13, 1725. 14th. Johannes Cuyler; Oct. 14. 1725 — Nov. 7. 1726. 15th. Rutger Bleecker; Nov. 8. 1726 — Nov. 10. 1729. i6th. Johannes De Pe^'ster; Nov. 11, 1729 — Oct. 13. 1731. T7th. Johannes ("Hans") Hansen: Oct. 14, 1731 — Oct. 22. 1732. i6th. Johannes De Peyster; Oct. 23. 1732- — Oct. 2^. 1733. i8th. Edward Holland; Oct. 24, 1733 — Oct. 30. 1740. TQth. Johannes Schuyler. Jun.; Oct. 31, 1740 — Nov. 22. 1741. i6th. Johannes De Peyster; Nov. 23, 1741 — Oct. 13. 1742. 20th. Cornells Cuyler; Oct. 14, 1742 — Sept. 28, 1746. 2ist. Dirck Ten Broeck; Sept. 29, 1746 — Oct. 13. 1747. 2ist. Dirck Ten Broeck; Oct. 14, 1747 — Oct. 13. T748. 22nd. Jacob Coenraedt Ten Eyck; Oct. 14. 1748 — Oct. 14. 1750. 23rd. Robert Sanders; Oct. 15, 1750 — I754- 17th. Johannes ("Hans") Hansen; 1754 — 1756. 24th. Sybrant Gozen (or Goosen) \'an Schaick ; 1756 — Sept. 28, 1761. 25th. A'olckert Petrus Douw; Sept. 29, 1761 — Sept. 9. 1770. 26th. Abraham Cornells Cuyler; Sept. 10, 1770 — April 16, 1778. 8io mayors' successive terms. (Elected by Board of Aldermen.) 27th. John Barclay; April 17, 1778 — April 8, 1779. 28th. Abraham Ten Broeck; April 9, 1779 — June 26, 1783. 29th. Johannes Jacobse Beeckman ; June 2y, 1783 — Oct. 8, 1786. 30th. John Lansing- (Lansingh),Jun. ; Oct. 9, 1786 — Oct. 18, 1790. 31st. Abraham Yates, Jun. ; Oct. 19, 1790 — Oct. 14, 1796. 28th. Abraham Ten Broeck; Oct. 15, 1796 — Dec. 31, 1798. 32nd. Philip Schuyler Van Rensselaer; Jan. i, 1799 — July 7, 1816. 33rd. Elisha Jenkins; July 8, 1816 — July 2, 1819. 32nd. Philip Schuyler Van Rensselaer; July 3, 1819 — Feb. 18,1821. 34th. Charles Edward Dudley; Feb. 19, 1821 — Feb. 15, 1822. 34th. Charles Edward Dudley; Feb. 16, 1822 — Feb. 19, 1823. 34th. Charles Edward Dudley; Feb. 20, 1823 — March 9, 1824. 35th. Ambrose Spencer; March 10, 1824 — Dec. 31. 1824. 35th. Ambrose Spencer; Jan. i, 1825 — Jan. i, 1826. 36th. James Stevenson; Jan. 2, 1826 — Dec. 31, 1826. 36th. James Stevenson; Jan. i, 1827 — May 23, 1828. 34th. Charles Edward Dudley; May 29, 1828 — Dec. 31, 1828. 34th. Charles Edward Dudley; Jan. i, 1829 — Jan. 19, 1829. 37th. John Townsend ; Feb. 9, 1829 — Dec. 31, 1829. 37th. John Townsend; Jan. i, 1830 — Dec. 31, 1830. 38th. Francis Bloodgood ; Jan. i, 1831 — Dec. 31, 1831. 37th. John Townsend; Jan. i, 1832 — Dec. 31, 1832. 38th. Francis Bloodgood; Jan. i, 1833 — ^^^- 31, 1833. 39th. Erastus Corning; Jan. i, 1834 — Dec. 31, 1834. 39th. Erastus Corning; Jan. i, 1835 — Dec. 31, 1835. 39th. Erastus Corning; Jan. i, 1836 — Jan. i, 1837. 39th. Erastus Corning; Jan. 2. 1837 — May 14, 1837. 40th. Teunis Van Vechten ; May 15, 1837 — Dec. 31, 1837. 40th. Teunis Van Vechten; Jan. i, 1838 — Dec. 31, 1838. 40th. Teunis Van Vechten; Jan. i, 1839 — Jan. 21, 1839. 41st. Jared Lewis Rathbone ; Jan. 24, 1839 — I^^c. 31, 1839. (Elected by Vote of the People.) 41st. Tared Lewis Rathbone; Jan. i, 1840 — May 11, 1840. 41st. Jared Lewis Rathbone; May 12, 1840— May 10, 1841. 40th. Teunis Van Vechten; May 11, 1841 — May 9, 1842. 42nd. Barent Philip Staats ; May 10, 1842 — April 17, 1843. 43rd. Friend Humphrey; April 18, 1843 — April 15, 1844. 43rd. Friend Humphrey; April 16, 1844 — April 14. 1845. 44th. John Kcyes Paige; April 15, 1845 — April 13, 1846. 45th. William Parmelee ; April 14, 1846 — April 19. 1847. mayors' successive terms. 8ii 45th. William Parmelee ; April 20, 1847 — April 17, 1848. 46th. John Taylor; April 18, 1848 — April 16, 1849. 43rd. Friend Humphrey; April 17, 1849 — April 15, 1850. 47th. Franklin Townsend ; April 16, 1850 — April 14, 1851. 48th. Eli Perry; April 15, 1851 — Jan. 12, 1852. 48th. Eli Perry; Jan. 13, 1852 — Jan. 9, 1854. 45th. William Parmelee; Jan. 10, 1854 — April 16, 1855. 45th. William Parmelee; April 17, 1855 — March 15, 1856. 49th. Charles Watson Godard; April 28, 1856 — May 5, 1856. 48th. Eli Perry; May 6, 1856— Alay 3, 1858. 48th. Eli Perry; May 4, 1858 — April 30. i860. 50th. George Hornell Thacher; May i, i860 — May 5, 1862. 48th. Eli Perry; May 6, 1862 — May 2, 1864. 48th. Eli Perry; May 3, 1864— April 30, 1866. 50th. George Hornell Thacher; May i, 1866 — May 5, 1868. 51st. Charles Edward Bleecker; May 6, 1868 — May 5. 1870. 50th. George Hornell Thacher; May 6, 1870 — May 6, 1872. 50th. George Hornell Thacher; May 7, 1872 — Jan. 17, 1874. 52nd. Edmund Lewis Judson ; April 14, 1874 — May i, 1876. 53rd. Anthony Bleecker Banks; May 2, 1876 — May 6, 1878. 54th. Michael Nicholas Nolan; May 7. 1878 — May 3, 1880. 54th. Michael Nicholas Nolan; May 4, 1880 — May i, 1882. 54th. Michael Nicholas Nolan; May 2, 1882 — June 24, 1883. 55th. John Swinburne; May 2, 1882 (seated June 25, 1883) — May 5. 1884. 53rd. Anthony Bleecker Banks; May 6, 1884 — INIay 3, 1886. 56th. John Boyd Thacher: May 4, '1886— April 30, 1888. 57th. Edward Augustin Maher; May i, 1888 — May 4, 1890. 58th. James Hilton Manning; May 5, 1890 — May 2, 1892. 58th. James Hilton Manning; May 3, 1892 — April 30. 1894. 59th. Oren Elbridge Wilson; May i, 1894 — Dec. 31, 1895. 56th. John Boyd Thacher; Jan. i, 1896 — Dec. 31, 1897. 60th. Thomas Jefferson Van Alstyne ; Jan. i, 1898 — Dec. 31, 1899. 6ist. James Henry Blessing; Jan. i, 1900^ — Dec. 31, 1901. 62nd. Charles Henry Gaus ; Jan. i, 1902 — Dec. 31, 1903. 62nd. Charles Henry Gaus; Jan. i, 1904 — Dec. 31, 1905. 62nd. Charles Henry Gaus; Jan. i, 1906 — IRamee of flDav^ors an^ Zcvme of ©ffice. ABEEL — Johannes 2nd. BANCKER — Evert 3rd. BANKS — Anthony Bleecker 53rd. BARCLAY — John -'7th. BEECKMAN — Johannes Jacohse . 29th. BLEECKER — Charles Edward ... 51st. BLEECKER — Jan Jansen 7th. BLEECKER — Johannes, Jun 8th. BLEECKER — Rutger 15th. BLESSING— James Henry 6ist. BLOODGOOD — Francis 38th. CORNING — Erastus 39th. CUYLER — Abraham CorneHus . . 26th. CUYLER — Cornelius 20th. CUYLER — Johannes 14th. DE PEYSTER — Johannes i6th. DOUW — Volckert Petrus 2Sth. DUDLEY — Charles Edward 34th. GAUS — Charles Henry 62nd. GODARD — Charles Watson 49th. HANSEN — Hendrick 5th. HANSEN — Johannes ("Hans").. 17th. HOLLAND — Edward i8th. HUMPHREY — Friend 43rd. JENKINS — Elisha 33rd. JUDSON — Edmund Lewis 52nd. LANSING — John, Jun. 30th. LIVINGSTON — Robert, Jun 12th. MAHER — Edward Augustin S/tii- MANNING — James Hilton 58th. NOLAN — Michael Nicholas 54th. PAIGE — John Keyes 44th. Oct. 14. [694- - Oct. 14, i( Nov. 29, ] 707 - Nov. 23, I Oct. 15, [695- - Sep. 28, i( Nov. I, [707- -Oct. 22, I Oct. 23, 1708- - Nov. 28, I May 2, 1876- -May 6, I Mav 6, 1884- -May 3, I Apr. 17, [778- -Apr. 8, I June 27, 1783- ■Oct. 8, I May 6, [868- ■May 5, I 1700 — - Nov. 5, I Nov. 6, 1701 — Nov. 8, 1726 — - Nov. 10, I Jan. I, 1900 — -Dec. 31, 1 Jan. ij ^^33 - -Dec. 31, I Jan. I, 1833- ■Dec. 31- I Jan. I , [834- -Dec. 31, I Jan. I, 1835- -Dec. 31, I Jan. I, 1836- - Jan. I, I Jan. 2, ] 837- *May 14, I Sep. 10, [770 - ■Apr. 16, I Oct. 14, [742- Sep. 28, I Oct. 14, t725- ■ Nov. 7, I Nov. ii> £729- -Oct. 13, I Oct. 23, 1732- -Oct. 23, I Nov. 23, 1741- -Oct. 13, I Sep. 29, [761 — - Sep. 9, I Feb. 19, [821 - -Feb. 15. I Feb. 16, 1822- -Feb. 19. I Feb. 20, 1823 - - Mch. 9. I May 29, [828- •Dec. 31, 1 Jan. 1, 1829 — *Jan. 19, I Jan. I, 1902 — -Dec. 31, I Jan. I, 1904- -Dec. 31, I Jan. I, 1906 — - Apr. 28, 1856- - May 5, I Oct. 14, 1698- Oct. 14, 1731- 1754- -Oct. 22, I Oct. 24, 1733- -Oct. 30, I Apr. 18, 1843- - Apr. 15, I Apr. 16, 1844- - Apr. 14. I Apr. 17, 1849- - Apr. 15. I July 8, 1816- *July 2, li tApr. 14, 1874- - May I, I Oct. 9, 1786- -Oct. 18, I Nov. 24, 1710 — - May I, 1888- - May 4, I May 5, 1890 — - May 2, I May 3. 1892- - Apr. 30, I May 7. 1878— May 3. I- May 4, 1880- - May I, I May 2, 1882- - *June 24, I Apr. 15, 1845- -Apr. 13, I NAMES OF MAYORS AND TERMS OF OFFICE. 813 PARMELEE — William 45th- PERRY — Eli 48th. RATHBONE — Jared Lewis 41st. RYCKMAN — Albert Janse Qth- SANDERS — Robert 23rd. SCHUYLER — David Davidse .... nth. SCHUYLER — Johannes loth. SCHUYLER — John, Jun 19th. SCHUYLER — Myndert 13th. SCHUYLER— Pieter ist. SPENCER — Ambrose 35th. STAATS — Barent Philip 42nd. STEVENSON — James 36th. SWINBURNE — John 46th. TAYLOR — John 46th. TEN BROECK — Abraham 28th. TEN BROECK — Dirck 21st. TEN BROECK — Dirck Wesselse .. 4th. TEN EYCK — Jacob Coenraedt .. 22nd. THACHER — George Hornell .... 50th. THACHER — John Boyd 56t'n. TOWNSEND — Franklin 47th. TOWNSEND — John 37th. VAN ALSTYNE — T. Jefferson.. 6oth. VAN BRUGH or VERBRUGGE — Peter 6th. VAN RENSSELAER— Philip S.. 32nd. VAN SCHAICK— Sybrant Gozen..i7th. VAN VECHTEN — Teunis 40th. WILSON — Oren Elbridge 59th. YATES — Abraham, Jun 31st. Apr. 14. 1846- — Apr. 19, 1847 Apr. 20, 1847- — Apr. 17, 1848 Jan. 10, 1854- -Apr. 16, 1855 Apr. 17. 1855- - tMch. 15, 1856 Apr. 15, 1851- — Jan. 12, 1852 Jan. 13, 1852- -Jan. 9, 1854 May 6, i8s6- - May 3. 1858 May 4, 1858^ -Apr. 30, i860 May 6, 1862- — May 2 1864 May 3, 1864- — Apr. 30! 1866 Jan. 24, 1839- -May II, 1840 May 12, 1840- — May 10, 1841 1702 - -Oct. 25, 1703 Oct. 15, 1750- — 1754 Nov. II, 1706 -Oct. 31, 1707 Oct. 26, 1703- — Nov. 10, 1706 Oct. 31, 1740- - Nov. 22, 1741 1719- - Nov. 8, 1720 1723 - -Oct. 13, 1725 Julv 22 1686 -Oct. 13, 1694 Mch. 10, 1824- — Dec. 31, 1824 Jan. I, 1825- — Jan. I, 1826 May 10, 1842- — Apr. 17, 1843 Jan. 2, 1826- — Dec. 31, 1826 Jan. I, 1827- — *May 23, 1828 tjune 25, 1883 — May 5, 1884 Apr. 18, 1848- — Apr. 16, 1849 Apr. 9. 1779- — June 26, 1783 Oct. 15. 1796- — Dec. 31. 1798 Sep. 29. 1746- -Oct. 13, 1747 Oct. 14. 1747- -Oct. 13, 1748 Sep. 29, 1696 - -Oct. 13, 1698 Oct. 14. 1748- -Oct. 14, 1750 May, I, 1860- — May 5, 1862 May I, 1866- — May 5, 1868 Mav 6, 1870- — May 6, 1872 Mav 7. 1872 — Jan. 17, 1874 May 1880 - — Apr. 30, 1888 Jan. I, rS96 - - Dec. 31, 1897 Apr. 16, 1850- — Apr. 14, 1851 Feb. 9, 1829- -Dec. 31, 1829 Jan. I, 1830- — Dec. 31. 1830 Jan. I, 1832 - -Dec. 31, 1832 Jan. I, 1898- -Dec. 31, 1899 1699- — 1700 Nov. 9, 1720 — 1723 Jan. I, 1799- -*July 7, 1816 July 3, 1819- -Feb. 18, 1821 1756- — Sep. 28, 1761 May 15, 1837 - -Dec. 31, 1837 Jan. I, 1838- -Dec. 31, 1838 Jan. I, 1839- - *Jan. 21, 1839 Mav II, 1841 - — May 9, 1842 Mav I, 189^- -Dec. 31, 1895 Oct. 19. 1790 -Oct. 14, 1796 t Seated. * Resigned. % Died. flDa^^oralt^ This Count Begins with the First Elected the Mayor. OPPONENT. J. L. Rathbone Whig . T. Van Vechten Whig . B. P. Staats Dem. F. Humphrey Whig. F. Humphrey Whig . J. K. Paige Dem. W. Parmelee Whig . W. Parmelee Whig . J. Taylor Whig. F. Humphrey Whig . F. Townsend I Whig . Eli Perry Dem . Eli Perry Dem . W. Parmelee Whig . C. W. Godard (a) Eli Perry Dem. Eli Perry Dem . G. H. Thacher, Dem. Eli Perry Dem. Eli Perry Dem. G. H. Thacher ' Dem. C. E. Bleecker Dem. Geo. H. Thacher Dem. E. L. Judson ! Rep . . A. B. Banks ' Dem. M. N. Nolan Dem. J. Swinburne (b) A. B. Banks Dem. J. B. Thacher Dem. E. A. Maher Dem. J. H. Manning , Dem. J. H. Manning l Dem. O. E. Wilson. . .■ ' Rep. . J. B. Thacher ! Dem. T. J. Van Alstyne ; Dem. J. H. Blessing Rep . . C. H. Gaus Rep. . C. H. Gaus Rep. C. H. Gaus Rep. . 13 466 449 868 210 268 148 105 088 120 142 229 542 022 073 990 702 825 635 375 600 979 221 762 377 916 098 510 766 552 781 14.5 030 172 364 027 175 915 E. Corning G. Y. Lansing. . . . J. Townsend P. Gansevoort. . . . G. W. Stanton . . . F. Humphrey. . . . J. K. Paige Jas. Goold Thos. Hun Thos. Hun E. Perry F. Townsend T. McMullen E. Perry J. Quackenbush . . J. Quackenbush . . J. Taylor G. W. Luther J. F. Rathbone. . . R. H. Pruyn J. W. Parker E. L. Judson T. McCarty E. L. Judson N. H. Chase J. Swinburne E. A. Durant, Jr . J. Swinburne H. N. Fuller J. M. Warner. . . . J. Rooney W. J. Walker S. E. Marvin T. J. Van Alstvne . Gen. A. J. Parker. Col. W. G. Rice . . W. J. Wansboro. . a To supply vacancy by death, b Contested canvass. Canvass, Election of Mayors by PoruLAR Vote. MAJORITY. PER CENT. OF TOTAL. TOTAL VOTE. ELECTION. Dem. Dem. Whig. Dem. Dem. Whig. Dem. Dem . Dem . Dem. Dem. Whig. Whig. Dem. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Dem. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Rep. Dem. Rep. Rep. Demi. Dem. Dem. Dem. 099 399 532 984 638 no 513 168 991 925 217 176 050 692 172 601 090 146 462 867 143 983 270 912 358 013 316 528 636 752 014 995 673 612 379 372 no 336 14 143 38 592 , 920 129 217 12 366 972 381 250 1 , 629 2,753 7.236 5,253 3 , 509 4,278 2,158 2 , 369 2,354 4,563 8,536 818 lOI 735 2 , 489 1,913 733 2,836 1,238 1,492 1,465 3,558 540 509 531 514 537 489 549 684 510 517 500 526 566 441 476 504 526 639 605 534 627 542 544 542 473 505 53 7 566 682 629 577 497 355 541 532 577 668 4,565 4,828 5,400 6 , 240 6,086 6,439 5,685 5,979 6,115 6,072 6,456 6 , 732 7,094 6 ,972 6, 276 9,329 9,268 8,821 8,879 10,485 11,150 13,693 16 ,090 17 ,289 18,814 18,578 19,908 19,560 20 , 801 19,876 20,339 22 , 791 22,214 22 ,992 22,848 24, 286 24,576 23,818 May 5 April 13 April 12 April 1 1 April 9 April 7 April 14 April 13 April 1 1 April 10 April 9 April 8 Nov. 4 Nov. 8 Mar. 19 April 8 April 13 April 10 April 8 April 12 April 10 April 14 April 12 April 14 April 1 1 April 9 April 1 1 April 9 April 13 April 10 April 8 April 12 April ID Nov. 5 Nov. 2 Nov. 7 Nov. 5 Nov. 3 Nov. 7 1840 1841 1842 1843 1844 1845 1846 1847 1848 1849 1850 185 1 1 85 1 1853 1856 1856 1858 i860 1862 1864 1866 1868 1870 1874 1876 1878 1882 1884 1886 1888 1890 1895 1897 1899 1901 1903 1905 flfta^otalt^ Dote Ipercentaoe. It must be noted that on the occasions when there were three prominent candidates voted for, the percentage of the nominee elected was considerably reduced. This list starts with the first election of a Mayor by a vote of the people, May 5, 1840. No candidate up to 1906 has received three-fourths of a total votes cast, but three have received two-thirds of all votes cast at an election. In further dis- section of this table, the Whig (W) nominee may be included in the Republican list. William Parmelee (W) James H. Manning (D) Charles H. Gaus (R) Eli Perry (D) James H. Manning (D) Charles E. Bleecker (D) Eli Perry (D) Oren E. Wilson (R) Charles H. Gaus fR) Edward A. Maher (D) Eli Perry (D) William Parmelee (W) Edmund L. Judson (R) A. Bleecker Banks (D) Geo. H. Thacher (D) ' James H. Blessing (R) Jared L. Rathbone (W) John Boyd Thacher (D) Friend Humphrey (W) Geo. H. Thacher (D) Charles H. Gaus (R) Barent P. Staats (D) Geo. H. Thacher (D) Eli Perry (D) Friend Humphrey (W) Friend Hum.phrev (W) John Taylor (W) Teunis Van Vechten (W) A. Bleecker Banks (D) .684 1872 .682 1890 .668 1905 •639 1862 .629 1892 .627 1868 .605 1864 ■S77 1894 ■577 1903 .566 1888 566 1851 •549 1846 •544 1874 •542 1876 •542 1870 •541 1899 •540 1840 •537 1886 •537 1844 ■534 1866 •532 1 901 •531 1842 .526 i860 •526 1851 •517 1849 5H 1843 .510 1848 •509 1841 •505 1884 MAYORALTY VOTE PERCENTAGE. 817 Eli Perry (D) Franklin Townsend (W) John Boyd Thacher (D) John Keyes Paige (D) Eli Perry (D) Michael N. Nolan (D) William Parmeleee (W) Thos. J. Van Alstyne(D) •504 1858 .500 1850 497 189s .489 1845 .476 1856 473 1878 .441 1853 •355 1897 lEIection Spates. Election. Sworn in. Slect'.on. Sworn in. May 5, 1840. . . .May 12, 1840 April 14. 1868 . . . May 6, 1868 April 13, 1841. . . .May II, 1841 April 12. 1870 . . . May 6, 1870 April 12, 1842. . . .May 10, 1842 April 9, 1872 . . . May 7, 1872 April II, 1843. . . .April 18, 1843 April 14, 1874 ...April 14, 1874 April 9, 1844. . . .April 16, 1844 April II, 1876 . . . May 2, 1876 April 7, 1845.. . .April 15, 1845 April 9, 1878 . . . May 7, 1878 April 14, 1846. . . .April 14, 1846 April 13, 1880 . . . May 4, 1880 April 13, 1847.. . .April 20, 1847 April II, 1882 . . . May 2, 1882 April II, 1848. . . .April 18, 1848 April 9. T884 . . . May 6. 1884 April 10, 1849. • . .April 17, 1849 April 13, 1886 . . . May 4, 1886 April 9, 1850. . . .April 16, 1850 April 10, 1888 . . . May I, 1888 April 8. 1851. . . .April 15, 1851 April 8. 1890 . . . May 5, 1890 Nov. 4, 1851 . . . .Jan. 13, 1852 April 12. 1892 . . . May 3, 1802 Nov. 8, 1853. . . .Jan. 10, 1854 April 10, 1894 . . . May I, 1894 April 8, 1856.. . .May 6, 1856 Nov. 5. 1895 . . .Jan. I. 1896 April 14, 1857.. . .May 6, 1857 Nov. 2, 1897 . . .Jan. I, 1898 April 13, 1858. . . .May 4, 1858 Nov. 7, 1899 . . .Jan. I, 1900 April 10, i85o. . . .May I, i860 Nov. 5. 1901 . . .Jan. I, 1902 April 8, 1862.. . .May 6, 1862 Nov. 3, 1903 . . . Jan. I, 1904 April 12, 1864. . . .May 3, 1864 Nov. 7. 1905 . . . .Jan. I, 1906 April 10, 1866. . . .May I, 1866 Previous to the earliest date given in this table the Mayor was elected by the Board of Aldermen for some years previous, and before that was commissioned bv the Colonial Governor. B D 11 9 LIBRftRY OF CONGRESS 014 108 368 5'