Commission for Detecting and Defeating
Conspiracies in the State of New York
1778-1781
Albany County Sessions
Edited by Victor Hugo Paltsits, State Historian
Published by the State of New York, Albany 1909
This three volume set (the third volume is an index of names and places) was scanned for individuals who lived the area now encompassed by Greene County. All entries related to these individuals will be presented under their name, or in cases when groups of individuals are being investigated, as a group. A listing of individuals to be covered is presented below
All transcriptions by Sylvia Hasenkopf
On February 5, 1778 during its 1st session (1777-1778) the
Legislature of New York passed its first bill for the creation of a body of
"Commissioners for detecting and defeating conspiracies" in the state and
declaring their powers. The idea was "to conserve the State, against the
machinations of disaffected, disloyal or even decidely inimical persons."
Commissions were established for the following counties:
Albany, Charlotte, Dutchess, Orange, Tryon, Ulster, Westchester
Within these counties District Commissioners were established.
Definition of a mittimus: In law - a precept or command in writing under the hand or hand and seal of a justice of the peace or other proper officer, directed to the keeper of a prison, requiring him to imprison an offender until delivered by due course of law; a warrant of commitment to prison.
|
John Cumming |
Arent Van Schaack |
Lukas Dewitt Sr. and Jr. |
Jacob Halenbeck Jun. |
Teunis Van Wagnen |
Abraham Person Jun |
|
Wessel Van Dyck |
Albartus Van Loon |
Johan Jurie Fought |
Lawrence Deal |
John Coenly |
Zachariah Snyder |
|
Peter W. Yates |
William Rea |
Joachim Collier |
Abraham Herdick |
Peter Van Slyck |
Stephen Van Dyck |
|
Isaac Witbeck |
John G. Klauw |
Abraham DeWitt |
Nathaniel Cotton |
Simeon Garret |
John Garrett |
Peter W. Yates
July 27 1778
David van Schaack, Cornelius Van Schaack, Dereck Gardinier, John D. Goes,
Matthew Goes Junr. and Lambert Burgart all of the District of Kinderhook; Peter
W. Yates of Katskill, Dirk Delamater of Claverack and Richard Minifee of the
Manor of Rensselaerwyck were cited to appear before the Board to render
satisfaction respecting their conduct during the present war agreeable to the
Act lately passed by the Legislature - they were ordered to appear on the 30th
Day of July instant.
August 1, 1778
Ordered that an Advertisement be sent down to Samuel Loudon, Printer to be
inserted in his next paper requesting David Van Schaack, Cornelius Van Schaack
and Lambert Bogart of Kinderhook and Peter W. Yates of Catskill to appear before
us at the City Hall in this city on Thursday the thirteenth Day of August
instant at 10 of the clock in the forenoon of the same day in consequence and by
virtue of an Act passed by the Legislature at their last sessions entitled, "An
Act more effectually to prevent the mischiefs arising from the Influence and
Example of persons of equivocal and suspected characters in this State. -
August 10, 1778
Received a letter from Peter W. Yates informing us that he had never been
summoned and had before he knew of any citation being sent for him taken the
Oaths of Allegiance and Office.
August 12, 1778
Received a letter from Peter W. Yates dated 11th August 1778 which Letter is
in the Words following, to wit (letter is not cited) Ordered that Mr. Visscher
acquaint Mr. Yates that it is their Opinion he ought to come up and Qualify
before the Board.
August 14, 1778
Peter W. Yates appeared before the Board according to the Order received
from us and being tendered the Oath prescribed in the act he requested Time to
consider the same which was given him.
May 15, 1779
Peter W. Yates appearing before the Board for
the Purpose of taking the Oath prescribed in an(d) by an Act of the Legislature
of this State respecting Persons of neutral and equivocal Characters resolved
that the said oath be administered to him accordingly.
I, Peter W. Yates do solemnly and without any mental Reservation or equivocation whatsoever Swear and call God to Witness that I believe & acknowledge the State of New York to be of Right a free and Independent State and that no authority or power can of right be exercised in or over the said State but what is or shall be granted by or derived from the People thereof and further that as a good Subject of the said free and Independent State of New York I will to the best of my knowledge and Ability faithfully do my duty, and as I shall keep or disregard this Oath so help and deal with me Almighty God.
Peter W. Yates
John Cumming
August 4, 1778
John Cumming was also cited to appear before the Board and appearing he was
tendered the Oath which he refused to take –
Ordered that the said Isaac Man and John Cumming appear at the City Hall of the City of Albany on Friday the 14th Day of August Instant it being the Time appointed for their being removed within the Enemies Line with fourteen days Provisions for themselves and such of their family as the chuse should accompany the, (Persons able to bear Arms excepted) they are also permitted to take with them all their cloathing and Household Furniture.
August 8, 1778
Ordered that a Certificate be sent down to John Morrin Scott Esqr. Secretary
of the State of New York certifying that Richard Cartwright on the 16th
Day of July last Peter Vosburgh, Lowrance Goes and Harmen Pruyn, William Rea,
Barent Van Der Pool and Andries Huyck on the 21st Day July last,
Benjamin Baker, Henry Van Dyck, Cornelius Glen, Henry Ten Eyck and James Dole on
the 23rd Day of July last, John Witbeeck and Volkert Van Veghten on
the 28th Day of July last, Marte Van Buren on the 29th Day
of July last, and Richard Minifee in the 30th Day of July last,
Gysbert Fonda, John Stevenson and Absolom Woodward on the 1st Day of
August Instant, John Cumming, Isaac Man, John Kortz, Jun. and Alexander White on
the 4th Day of August Instant and Dirck Gardinier, Matthew Goes Junr
and John D. Goes on the 7th Day of August Instant were in Pursuance
of the Act of the Legislature lately passed respecting neutral and equivocal
characters cited to appear before us on their Appearance on the Days
abovementioned we having tendered them the Oath in the abovementioned Act set
forth and prescribed they refused to take the same –
November 13, 1778
Ordered that a Letter be wrote to John Cummings in Pursuance of the Letter
received from his Excellency the Governor of the 5th Instant
informing him that it is the Determination of the Governor not to exchange Henry
Van Schaack and the other State Prisoners for such of the Subjects of this State
as are now confined in New York which letter is the Words following, to wit (prout)
December 7, 1778
John Cumming who refused to the (the Oath) as prescribed to be taken by
Persons of Neutral and equivocal Characters and was in Consequence thereof to be
removed within the Enemy Lines but was detained by his Excellency the Governor
for Exchange made Application to the Board to be permitted to go and reside at
Katskill with his family and their being no Prospect of an Exchange taking Place
as yet for the said John Cumming therefore ordered that the said John Cumming
enter into a Parole to remain within the Limits and Bounds of the District of
Grote Imboght and abide by such Restrictions as are in the said Parole specified
which Parole is in the Words following, to wit (prout)
August 29, 1781
The Board having received Information from which they are induced to think
that the Persons living in a Place formerly in the Possession of [blank] Cumming
at Katskill are endeavoring by every means to injure the American Cause and as
their situation is such that they have it in their Power to afford Assistance to
Parties coming from the Enemy therefore resolved that a letter be wrote to Col.
Du Bois at Kats Kill requesting him to cause them to be removed as soon as
possible
Wessel Van Dyck
May 5, 1781
Harmanus Cuyler of Cooksackie laid before the Board a Letter from Teunis Van
Wagenon dated Catskill 4th Instant wherein he informs us that he
sends to us Wessel Van Dyck as a Prisoner on Account his being concerned in
carrying off David Abeel and his son and that he will send up proof against him
as soon as possible which Letter being read ordered that the same be filed –
Resolved in Consequence of the above letter that the said Wessel Van Dyck be confined and that a Mittimus be made out for him.
May 26, 1781
Resolved that Wessel Van Dyck be discharged on entering into a Recognizance
for his future good Behaviour doing his duty and appearing before any three of
the Commissioners for Conspiracies when thereunto required during the
Continuance of the present War with Great Britain
Wessel Van Dyck of Caters Kill in
the County of Albany Farmer in £100
David Van Dyck of Niscuthaw in the County aforesaid Farmer his Bail £100
William Rea
July16, 1778
Henry Van Schaack, Peter Van Schaack, Peter Vosburgh, Lowrence Goes, Harman
Pruyn, John Thurman and William Rea were severally cited to appear before this
Board on the Eighteenth Instant to render satisfaction to us touching their
Conduct during this war comfortable to an Act of the Legislature lately passed
respecting Persons of neutral and equivocal Characters –
July 18, 1778
Pete Vosburgh, Lowrence Goes, William Rea and Harman Pruyn also appeared
before the Board and were tendered the Oath which they requested Time to
consider of till next Tuesday Morning which was granted them and ordered that
their non attendance at that Time be construed into a Refusal to take the Oath –
July 21, 1778
Peter Vosburgh, Lowrence Goes, William Rea, Harman Pruyn, who were given
Time to this Day to appear and take the Oath prescribed by the Act, not
appearing. Ordered that they hold themselves in Readiness to be removed into the
Enemies Lines by Saturday next
August 1, 1778
Ordered that Notice be given to Daniel Campbell, James Ellice, John Visger,
Peter Vosburgh, Lowrence Goes, Harme Pruyn, William Rea, Barent Van Der Pool,
Andries Huyck, Marte Van Buren, John Thurman and Peter Van Schaack to appear on
Friday the 14th Day of August Instant at the Court House in the City
of Albany with 14 Days Provision for themselves and such of their Families as
they chuse should accompany them (Persons capable of bearing Arms excepted).
They are also if they think proper to take with them all their Clothing and
Household Furniture – The Charges of Transportation to the Enemies Lines is to
be defrayed by themselves -
August 8, 1778
Ordered that a Certificate be sent down to John Morrin Scott Esqr. Secretary
of the State of New York certifying that Richard Cartwright on the 16th
Day of July last Peter Vosburgh, Lowrance Goes and Harmen Pruyn, William Rea,
Barent Van Der Pool and Andries Huyck on the 21st Day July last,
Benjamin Baker, Henry Van Dyck, Cornelius Glen, Henry Ten Eyck and James Dole on
the 23rd Day of July last, John Witbeeck and Volkert Van Veghten on
the 28th Day of July last, Marte Van Buren on the 29th Day
of July last, and Richard Minifee in the 30th Day of July last,
Gysbert Fonda, John Stevenson and Absolom Woodward on the 1st Day of
August Instant, John Cumming, Isaac Man, John Kortz, Jun. and Alexander White on
the 4th Day of August Instant and Dirck Gardinier, Matthew Goes Junr
and John D. Goes on the 7th Day of August Instant were in Pursuance
of the Act of the Legislature lately passed respecting neutral and equivocal
characters cited to appear before us on their Appearance on the Days
abovementioned we having tendered them the Oath in the abovementioned Act set
forth and prescribed they refused to take the same –
Albartus Van Loon
May 1, 1779
Albartus Van Loon appearing before the Board was Examined as to the Robbery
lately committed on himself and Coenradt Flake which Examination is as follows
(see Examination on File)
May 11,1779
A Letter from Richard Esseltyne and Lowrence Fonda Esqrs., Justices of the
Peace was laid before the Board wherein they inform us that in consequence of
the Information of Mrs. Van Loon (whose Examination they have transmitted us in
the said Letter) they have caused Francis Barbo to be apprehended and the said
examination being read and it appearing that the said Francis Barbo has been
concerned in the Robbery committed on Albartus Van loon therefore resolved that
he be committed and that a Mittimusbe made out for him –
May 12, 1779
Lambartus Van Alstyne appearing Informed the Board that Francis Barbo (who was
yesterday confined in consequence of a Letter from Richard Esseltyne and
Lowrence Fonda Esqrs.) is altogether innocent of the crime laid to his charge
and the said Lambartus Van Alstyne declaring on oath the at the Time of Robbery
happened at Albartus Van Loon’s the said Francis Barbo was at his house –
Resolved that the said Lambartus Van Alstyne he informed that as soon as the
Board are well certified of the Francis Barbo’s character they will liberate him
from confinement.
Stephen Van Dyck
July 28, 1779
Information having been exhibited to this Board by Jeremiah Van Renselaer
Esqr. One of the Members that Stephen Van Dyck of Lenenburgh has been ascessary
(sic) to the Escape of Samuel McFarland who had broke out of the Gaol in this
City and the said Stephen Van Dyck being a Disaffected Person –
Therefore Resolved that a Warrant be made out forthwith to apprehend the said Stephen Van Dyck
August 17, 1779
Jeremiah Van Renselaer Esqr. Obe of the members of this Board informed us that
Stephen Van Dyck of Lonenburgh had been aiding and assisting Samuel McFarlan to
make his Escape after he had broke out of Prison –
And Justice Van Hoesen being charged with advising Continental Soldiers to Desert to the Enemy
Resolved that a Warrant be [made] out to apprehend the said Stephen Van Dyck and Justice Van Hoesen and transmitted to Col. Robert Van Renselaer requesting him to deliver the said Warrant to some Constable of Claverack District and cause it to be served.
August 26, 1779
Justice Van Hoesen and Stephen Van Dyck for whose apprehension a warrant was
made out on the 17th Instant were brought before us –
Ordered that the(y) be confined and a mittimus made out for them
September 1, 1779
The Board conceiving that the Commitment of Stephen Van Dyck has been
sufficient ling we do therefore order that he be brought before us, On his
Offering sufficient surety for his future Good Conduct it is resolved that he be
liberated on his entering into a Recognizance for his future Good Behaviour and
appearance when called upon by any one of the Commissioners of Conspiracies –
Stephen Van Dyck on Recognizance
in £200
Hendrick A. Van Dyck his Bail
in £100
Arent Van Schaack
May 7, 1778
Stephen DuCalon was brought before the Board and was examined with respect to
the Robbery commited at Arent Van Schaack’s at Cooksackie, but as he would not
give any Satisfactory Answers to such Questions as were put to him he was
remanded back to prison.
June 1, 1778
Three Persons were brought to us under Guard who upon Examination we found to be
Robert Sloss, John Sloss and Archibald McMullen who were all three concerned
according to their own confession in the Robbery of Henry Van Renselaer and
Arent Van Schaack and [Isaac] Shelden their confessions were taken down in
writing and filed – they were all three closely confined.
June 6, 1778
Delivered to Mr. Peter W. Douw, one Bank Note of 600 Dollars No 208, 1 light
Blew Coat, 3 Pair of Stockings about a Yard of White Linnen which the said Peter
W. Douw has given his Receipt for and for which he promises to be accountable,
the above are supposed to belong to Arent Van Schaack and are supposed to be
stolen -
October 2, 1778
Peter Mesick Junr who stands accused by the Examination of Nathaniel Morgan
with having been privy to a Robbery committed on Arent Van Schaack at Cooksackie
and with Secreting the Goods there stolen made his appearance before the Board
and delivered himself up as Prisoner – ordered that the said Peter Mesick Junr
he committed to Prison and that a Mittimus be made out to the Sheriff to receive
him into his Custody.
November 4, 1778
Peter Mesick Junr of Claverack who was apprehended on Suspicion of being
Accessory to the Robbery committed on Arent Van Schaack was brought before the
Board and the Grand Jury having found no Bill or Indictment against the said
Peter Mesick Junr therefore ordered that he be discharged from Confinement with
a sufficient surety for his future good Behaviour and Appearance at the next
Court of General Sessions of the Peace to be held at the City Hall of the City
of Albany on [the] third Tuesday in January next or before the Commissioners of
Conspiracies when thereunto required
Peter Mesick Junr on Recognizance
£500
Henry J. Mesick his Bail
£500
November 5, 1778
Hendrick Skinkle who was confined on the Information of Nathaniel Morgan as an
Accessory to the Robbery of Arent Van Schaack was brought before the Board and
it having appeared to us that the said Hendrick Skinkle has not been indicted by
the Grand Jury therefore ordered that he be discharged from his present
Confinement on entering into a Recognizance with a sufficient surety for his
Appearance at the next Supream Court to be held in the third Tuesday in January
next at the City Hall in this City or wheresoever the said Court shall then be
held or before any One of the Commissioners when called upon
Hendrick Skinkle on Recognizance in
£200
Peter Van Valkenburgh his Bail
£200
Abraham Dewitt
April 19, 1781
Samuel Stringer Esq. laid before the Board an Examination of George Boarck taken
by Hezekiah Van Orden Esqr. from which it appears that Abraham Person Junr. and
Abraham Dewitt intend to go off and join the Enemy whenever a fit Opportunity
shall present –
Resolved in Consequence of the same that a letter be wrote to Lieut. Teunis Van Wagenon at Cats Kill to request him to have the said Abraham Person Junr. and Abraham DeWitt apprehended and forthwith sent to us –
May 7, 1781
A Letter was also laid before the Board from Teunis Van Wagenen dated at Cats
Kill the 6th Instant wherein he informs us that he sends to us under
Guard Abraham Dewitt and Abraham Person Junr. who have been apprehended
agreeable to a warrant issued by this Board and that he also sends John Person
who is a dangerous and disaffected Person –
Resolved that they be severally examined and that a Mittimus be made out for them –
May 28, 1781
Resolved that Abraham DeWitt be discharged from Confinement on Zachariah Snyder
of the Great Imboght entering into Recognizance for the Good Behaviour of the
said Abraham DeWitt doing his duty and appearing before any three of the
Commissioners for Conspiracies when thereunto required during the Continuance of
the present war with Great Britain
Zachariah Snyder of the Great Imboght District in the County of Albany as Bail for Abraham De Witt in £100
Nathaniel Cotton
March 16, 1781
William Hartley being again brought before the Board and examined says that
Nathaniel Cotton of Cooksackie is concerned in enlisting Men for the service of
the enemy and that the said Cotton furnished him with a Pass to travel through
the Country in order that he, the said William Hartley might be able the better
to carry on his Practices against the State
Resolved in Consequence of the above Information that a Warrant be made out directed to John Tillman Junr. forthwith to apprehend and bring before us the said Nathaniel Cotton.
March 18, 1781
Nathaniel Cotton having been apprehended by James Green by order of this
Board upon the Information of William Hartley resolved that the said James Green
attend with the said Nathaniel Cotton before this Board tomorrow morning.
June 6, 1781
Nathaniel Cotton of Cooksakie hiring a material witness against William
Hartley who was some Time since confined as a spy from the Enemy and as the said
William Hartley is to receive his Tryal by a court Martial therefore Resolved
that the said Nathaniel Cotton be cited to appear forthwith before this Board.
Simon Garret
November 20, 1780
It being suggested to the Board that Simeon Garret who lives upon the Farm
formerly occupied by John Waltymier has frequent Intercourse with the said
Waltymier and harbours him when on his way through the Country resolved in
Consequence of the said Information that the said Simeon Garret be cited to
appear before this Board forthwith.
November 25, 1780
Simeon Garret appeared before the Board this day agreeable to our order and
being Examined as to his Connection with John Waltymier he says as follows (see
his examination on file)
Resolved that the said Simeon Garret be discharged on his entering into Recognizance for his good Behaviour doing his duty and appearing before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when called upon during the continuance of the present war with Great Britain and for his procuring a sufficient Bail by the 2nd day of December next.
Simeon Garret of Cooksakie District Farmer in £100
November 28, 1780
John Ab: Pearson appeared before the Board for the Purpose of entering into a Recognizance as Bail for Simeon Garret resolved that he enter into the same for the good Behaviour of the said Simeon Garret and for his doing his duty & appearing before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when thereunto required during the continuance of the present war with Great Britain
John Ab: Pearson of Niscuthaw in the County of Albany Farmer as Bail for Simeon Garret £100
It appearing to this Board from the Examination of Simeon Garret that Walltimyer has slept several nights in the Barn of John Ver Plank of Coeyman’s Patent and there being reason to suppose that the Information respecting the said John Ver Planck is true from his Character of Disaffection and the said John Ver Planck being at presenting this place.
Therefore Resolved that Jacob Kidney be ordered to bring him forthwith before the Board.
Jacob Kidney appearing with John Ver Planck and he being Examined with Respect to Walltimyer’s sleeping in his Barn and he being ready to swear that he never knew of said Walltimyer being there which Assertion being deemed satisfactory to the Board therefore resolved that be discharged.
George Fought
September 15, 1778
It having appeared to us by
the Information of Nathaniel Morgan that Johan George Fought and Coenradt
Johnson were knowing to the Robberies committed by the said Nathaniel Morgan and
others ordered that they be severally cited to appear before the Board on the
Eighteenth Day of September Instant.
October 19, 1778
Johan Jurie Fought who was
sine time ago confined on the Information exhibited against him by Nathaniel
Morgan was brought before the Board and we having constituted the Charge against
him and judging from circumstances that the said John Jurie Fought is not so
guilty as was at first apprehended do therefore order that he be discharged from
Confinement on his entering into a Recognizance for his future good Behaviour
and monthly Appearance before one of the Commissioners of Conspiracies.
Johan Jurie Fought on Recognizance in
£200
George Shufelt his Bail in
£100
Silvester Salsbury also his Bail in
£100
September 16, 1780
Johan Jurie Fought
appearing according to our order to enter into a new recognizance.
Resolved that he enter into the same for his good behaviour doing is duty and appearing before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when hereunto required during the continuance of the present war with Great Britain
John Jurie Fought of Lonenburgh in the District of
Coxsackie Farmer in £100
Sylvester Salsbury of the County of Albany Farmer
his Bail £100
April 5, 1781
Captain DuBois appeared before the Board and informed the Board that Samuel Van
Buskirk, Luke DeWitt and the wife of Johan Jurie Fought are dangerous and
disaffected Persons whose going at Large may be dangerous to the State.
Resolved in Consequence of the above Information that a warrant be made out for them and that Capt. Du Bois be requested to have the same served.
April 5, 1781
Captain Benjamin Du Bois
appeared before the Board and informed the Board that Samuel Van Buskerk, Luke
Dewitt and the wife of John Jurie Fought are dangerous and disaffected Persons
whose going at large may be dangerous to the state.
Resolved in Consequence of the above Information that a warrior be made out for them and that Capt. Du Bois be requested to have the same served.
Teunis Van Wagenen
April 13, 1781
Brigadier General James
Clinton laid before the Board a letter received by him from Teunis Van Wagenen
at Catskill dated 12th instant in which he informs him that agreeable
to his Directions he had proceeded to the Westward with a Party of Men and has
apprehended Jurry Hoofman, Frederick Lobus, Frederick Schraader and Johannis
Vrobert who say they were taken prisoners at the Surrender of Burgoyne, John
Carrgill and James Davidson, Deserters from the Continental Army and Peter
Laraway and Luke Dewitt Inhabitants of this County and they being severally
brought before us and examined resolved that they be committed except John
Carrgill who producing a Furlough from Capt. Jansen of Col. Van Schaicks
Regiment was discharged. Ordered that minutes be made out for them.
April 19, 1781
Samuel Stringer Esqr. laid
before the Board an Examination of George Boarck taken by Hezekiah Van Orden
Esqr. from which it appears that Abraham Person Junr. and Abraham Dewit intend
to go off and join the Enemy whenever a fit Opportunity shall present.
Resolved in Consequence of
the same that a Letter be wrote to Lieut. Teunis Van Wagenon at Catskill to
request him to have the said Abraham Person Junr. and Abraham DeWit apprehended
and forthwith sent to us.
May 3, 1781
A Letter from Teunis Van
Wagenen dated Catskill the 2nd Inst. was laid before the Board
informing that he sends to us under Guard a certain Samuel Davidson who he had
caused to be apprehended as a dangerous Person and the said Davidson being
produced and Examined and it appearing from his Examination that he is a
Deserter from the Line of the Pennsylvania Army therefore resolved that he be
sent to General Clinton to be disposed as he may think proper.
May 5, 1781
Harmanus Cuyler of
Cooksackie laid before the Board a Letter from Teunis Van Wagenon dated Catskill
4th Inst. wherein he informs us that he sends to us Wessel Van Dyck
as a Prisoner on Account of his being concerned in carrying off David Abeel and
his son and that he will send up the Proof against him as soon as possible which
letter being read ordered that the same be filed –
Resolved in Consequence of the above letter that the said Wessel Van Dyck be confined and that a Mittimus be made out for him –
Adjourned
May 7, 1781
A letter was also laid
before the Board from Teunis Van Wagenen dated at Cattskill the 6th
Instant wherein he informs us that he sends to us under Guard Abraham Dewitt and
Abraham Person Junr. who have been apprehended agreeable to a warrant issued by
this Board and that he also sends John Person who is a dangerous and disaffected
person resolved that they be severally examined and that a Mittimus be made out
for them.
June 13, 1781
A Letter from Teunis Van
Wagenen dated at Katskill dated the 26th ultimo was laid before the
Board which Letter is in the following words (to wit) (see letter on file)
Wessel Van Dyck
May 5, 1781
Harmanus Cuyler of
Cooksackie laid before the Board a Letter from Teunis Van Wagenon dated Catskill
4th Inst. wherein he informs us that he sends to us Wessel Van Dyck
as a Prisoner on Account of his being concerned in carrying off David Abeel and
his son and that he will send up the Proof against him as soon as possible which
letter being read ordered that the same be filed –
Resolved in Consequence of the above letter that the said Wessel Van Dyck be confined and that a Mittimus be made out for him –
Adjourned
May 26, 1781
Resolved that Wessel Van Dyck be discharged on entering
into a Recognizance for his future good Behaviour doing his duty and appearing
before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when thereunto required
during the Continuance of the present War with Great Britain.
Wessel Van Dyck of Caters Kill in the County of Albany Farmer in £100
Abraham Person Junr.
May 17, 1781
On Application of John T. Fisher resolved that Abraham Person Junr. be liberated
from confinement on his entering into Recognizance with the said John T. Vischer
his surety for his Remaining within the Limits of the City of Albany and not
departing the same unless he previously obtains Permission from this Board and
that he be of the good Behaviour until discharged by this Board –
Abraham Person Junr. of the Groote Imboght District in the County of Albany Farmer in £100
May 26, 1781
Resolved that Abraham Person Junr. be discharged from
confinement on entering into a Recognizance for his future good behaviour doing
his duty and appearing before any three Commissioners for Conspiracies when
thereunto required during the Continuance of the present war with Great Britain.
Abraham Person Junr. of the Great Imboughts Farmer in £100
Lowrance Deal, John Garrett, John Coenly
November 12, 1780
Lieut. Van Den Bergh appeared before the Board and informed
us that he had agreeable to our warrant apprehended John Coenly, Lowrance Deal
and Beriah Kelly and they being severally produced and Examined resolved that
they be committed and that a Mittimus be made out directed to the Goaler to take
them into his custody and detain them until discharged by an order of this Board
–
November 13, 1780
Lowrance Deal and John Coenly who were Yesterday confined
were ordered to be brought before the Board and examined their Examinations are
as follows (to wit) (see Examination on file) ordered that they be recommitted –
November 20, 1780
Resolved that Lowrance Deal, John Garret and John Coenly
severally enter into a recognizance for their future good behaviour doing their
duty and appearing before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when
thereunto required during the Continuance of the present war with Great Britain
and also for their appearance at the next Supreme Court of Judicature to be held
for the State of New York at the City Hall in this City on the third Tuesday in
January next (or wheresoever the said Court shall then be held in the State
aforesaid) and not depart the Court without Leave.
Lowrance Deal of Cooksackie
Farmer in £100
Cornelius Conine of the same
place Farmer his Bail in £100
John Garret of Cooksakie
District Farmer in £100
Richard Bronck of the same place Esqr. his Bail in £100
John Coenly of Cooksakie
District Farmer in £100
Cornelius Conine of the same place Farmer his Bail in
£100
January 16, 1781
Lourance Deal, John Garret and John Coenly appeared before
the Board and requested to be discharged from that Part of their Recognizance
requiring their Appearance at the next Supream Court and they engaging to make
known to the Board whenever John Waltmier shall again come in that Part of the
Country in which they reside and their request being taken into Consideration
resolved that they be discharged accordingly -
Lukas Dewitt Sr. and Jr.
April 5, 1781
Captain DuBois appeared before the Board and informed the Board that Samuel Van
Buskirk, Luke DeWitt and the wife of Johan Jurie Fought are dangerous and
disaffected Persons whose going at Large may be dangerous to the State.
Resolved in Consequence of the above Information that a warrant be made out for them and that Capt. Du Bois be requested to have the same served.
April 13, 1781
Brigadier General James Clinton laid before the Board a letter received by him
from Teunis Van Wagenen at Catskill dated 12th Instant in which he
informs him that agreeable to his Directions he had proceeded to the Westward
with a Party of Men and has apprehended Jurry Hoofman, Frederick Lobus,
Frederick Schraader and Johannes Vrobert, who say they were taken prisoners at
the surrender of Burgoyne, John Carrgill and James Davidson, Deserters from the
Continental Army and Peter Laraway and Luke DeWitt, Inhabitants of this County
and they being severally brought before us and examined resolved that they be
committed except John Carrgill who producing a Furlough from Capt Jansen of Col.
Van Schaick’s Regiment was discharged ordered that a Mittimus be made out for
them.
April 23, 1781
Capt. Benjamin DuBois appeared the Board and informed us
that he had agreeable to our warrant apprehended Luke DeWit and the said Luke
DeWit being produced and examined acknowledges that he drank King George’s
health.
Resolved that he be confined and that a Mittimus he made out for him.
May 2, 1781
Luke DeWit was brought before the Board and examined. Ordered that he be
recommitted.
May 30, 1781
Resolved that Lukas DeWitt be discharged from Confinement
on entering into a Recognizance for his good behaviour doing his Duty and
appearing before any three of the Commissioners of Conspiracies when thereunto
required during the Continuance of the Present War with Great Britain and
America
Lukas DeWitt of the Great Imbought Farmer in
£100
Jacobus Perse of the same place Farmer his Bail in £100
May 30, 1781
Resolved that Lukas DeWitt Junr. be discharged from Confinement on entering his
duty and appearing before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when
thereunto required during the Continuance of the present war with Great Britain.
And also for his appearance at the next Court of General Sessions of the Peace
to be held for the City and County of Albany at the City Hall in said City on
the first Tuesday in June next to answer into all such Matters and things as
(s)hall be then and there alledged against him and not to depart the said Court
without Leave –
Lukas DeWitt Junr. of Coocksakie District Farmer in
£100
Zachariah Snyder of Great Imbought District Farmer his Bail in
£100
Joachim Collier, Abraham Herdick, Isaac Witbeck, John G. Klauw
June 27, 1778
Isaac Witbeck, John G.
Klauw, Joachim Collier and Abraham Herdick were sent to us under Guard by Col.
Peter Vrooman on being examined they pretend that there going hunting they were
taken near Freehold.
Ordered that they be carried to the Fort and that the Goaler by Mittimus be requested to receive him.
June 29, 1778
Capt. Kasper Huyck appeared before the Board and being interrogated with Respect
to Abraham Herdick who is confined and he having certified that the said Abraham
Herdick has always conducted himself as a Fried to the United States and to
their Cause.
Ordered therefore that the said Abraham Herdick be discharged from his confinement.
June 29, 1778
Isaac Witbeck, Joachim
Collier and John G. Clauw who were lately confined were again brought before the
Board and it appearing from several Certificates from the Major the Captain and
Lieutenants of the Regiment and Company to which they respectively belong that
they always have been well affected to the American Cause and conducted
themselves as such we have thought proper on the above mentioned certificates
and Recommendations to eliberate them on their entering into Recognizance for
good Behaviour and Appearance when called upon
Isaac L. Witbeck on Recognizance in
£100
Jochim Collier on Recognizance in
£100
John G. Clauw on Recognizance in
£100
Lowrance Boskerk their Bail £100
November 11, 1780
Capt. Cornelius Hogeboom
appeared before the Board and informed that he had agreeable to the Directions
received from us, proceeded to Coyemans where he had received of Lieut. Van Den
Bergh the following persons as Prisoners (to wit) John Witbeck, Nicholas Huyck,
Johannis Huyck Junr., Peter Huyck, David Van Dyck, William Hoogteling, Johannis
Witbeeck, Henry Huyck, Joachim Collyer, John Schram, John Ver Plank, Peter
Finehout and William Plato – resolved that they be severally committed and that
a Mittimus be made out for them.
November 20, 1780
The Board having from
Sundry Circumstances the greatest reason to think that the Information of
Abraham Hoogteling was entirely false and as several persons have been confined
on account of the same therefore resolved that the said persons be discharged
from Confinement, but as all of them have from the Commencement of the present
contest been disaffected to the American Cause it is ordered that previous to
their discharge they severally enter into a Recognizance for their good
Behaviour doing their Duty and appearing before any three of the Commissioners
for Conspiracies when thereunto required during the continuance of the present
war with Great Britain.
Joachim Collier of Cooksackie Farmer in
£100
Isaac Witbeeck of the same place Farmer his Bail in £100
Jacob Halenbeck, Jun.
September 1, 1778
Capt. John Smith appeared
before the Board with William Leonard, Frederick Felt, Bartholemewis Van
Valkenburgh, Hendrick Skinkle Junr., Jacob Livingston, Peter Plass, Daniel
Price, Peter Wheeler, Jacob Halenbeeck Junr., Jurie Wheeler, David Price,
Nathaniel Morgan, Bartolemewis Hess, Mary Wheeler and Ariantie Schuck who were
sent up Prisoners by the Board of Commissioners lately sitting at Claverack –
Ordered that they be committed -
September 18, 1778
On suggestion of the
Gaoler, Stephen Bell that Jacob Halenbeeck Junr. is sick it is ordered that the
said Jacob Halenbeeck Junr. he brought before the Board and that Doctor Samuel
Stringer be sent for to examine him.
Upon the Report of the said Samuel Stringer that the said Jacob Halenbeeck Junr. is very sick and that by his remaining in Confinement his Life will be endangered. It is ordered that the said Jacob Halenbeeck Junr. be released from his confinement on his entering into Recognizance with a sufficient Surety to remain within the House of Samuel Pruyn in this City.
Jacob Halenbeeck Junr. on Recognizance in £300
August 18, 1780
Resolved that Jacob
Halenbeeck Junr. of Klinkenbergh be ordered forthwith to appear before the Board
with a Sufficient Surety to enter into a Recognizance of anew –
September 2, 1780
Jacob Halenbeeck Junr.
appeared before the Board according to order to enter into Recognizance of anew
–
Resolved that he enter into the same with a sufficient surety for his good behaviour doing his duty and appearing before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when required during the continuance of the present war with Great Britain.
Jacob Halenbeeck, Junr. of Cooksackie District
Farmer in £100
Adam Hilton of the same place Farmer his Bail in
£100
November 9, 1780
Abraham Hooghteling was
brought before us and examined. on his Examination he says that a Number of
persons have been lately enlisted by Jacob Halenbeeck at Niscthaw and places
adjacent and that their Intention is early in the spring to join the Enemy which
Examination is in the words following (to wit) (see examination on file)
November 10, 1780
Lieut. Rykert Van Den Bergh having in Consequence of our
Warrant apprehended Jacob Hallenbeeck Junr. and he being brought before the
Board and examined resolved that he be committed and that a Mittimus he made out
for him.
November 15, 1780
Resolved that Jacob Halenbeeck Junr. be liberated from
confinement on his entering into a Recognizance for his remaining within the
Limits of the Dwelling House and Yard of Samuel Pruyn situate within the third
ward of this City until discharged from the said Restrictions by this Board or
any other three of the Commissioners and for his good Behaviour during that Time
–
Jacob Halenbeeck Junr of
Klinkenburgh in the County of Albany Farmer in £500
Jacob Halenbeeck of the same place
Farmer his Bail £500
November 21, 1780
Resolved that William Bartow, Jacob Halenbeeck Junr., Peter
Finehout, Ebenezer Stanton, Nathan Stanton, Arnold Shoelfield, Peter Huyck and
William Hoogteling be severally discharged from confinement on entering into
Recognizance for their good Behaviour doing their duty and appearing before any
three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when called upon during the
Continuance of the present war with Great Britain –
William Bartow of Cooksakie District Labourer in
£100
Samuel Pruyn of the City of Albany Yeoman his Bail £100
Peter Finehout of Aquatough
Laborer in £100
Daniel G. Van Antwerp of the same place Farmer his Bail in £100
Ebenezer Stanton of Cooksakee
District Farmer in £100
Daniel G. Van Antwerp of the same place Farmer his Bail in £100
Nathan Stanton of Cooksackie
District Farmer in £100
Daniel G. Van Antwerp of the same place Farmer his Bail in £100
Arnold Sholfield of the west
District of the Manor of Rensselaerwyck in £100
Wilhelmus Row of the same place Farmer his Bail in £100
Peter Huyck of Auckquetuck
Farmer in £100
Michael Klink of Auckquetough
Farmer his Bail in £100
Peter Van Slyck
July 6, 1781
Peter Van Slyck residing near Cooksackie appearing before the Board informs us
that a Party of Robbers headed by a certain Joseph Smith (formerly a servant of
Walltimyer) did on the first Instant enter his house and steel a number of
Articles of him and that in attempting to make his Escape they fired at him and
wounded him in the Arm and that they took Prisoner at his House Peter Clauw who
has since made his escape from them and this day come to Town and the said Peter
Clauw appearing before the Board and being examined says as follows (to wit)
(see his examination on file)
July 8, 1781
A Letter from Col. Van Bergen dated a t Cooksakie the 4th
Instant was laid before the Board inclosing the Examinations of Teunis
Hoogteling, Peter Finehout, William Davis, and Israel Kelsey concerning the
Robbery committed at Peter Van Slyck’s which Letter and Examinations are as
follows (to wit) (see examination & letter on file)
It appearing to this Board from the Examination of Peter Clauw that the Party who robbed Van Sluck stopped at the House of Adrian Bradt at Niscuthaw and that Joe Smith one of the said Party conversed for some time in private with the said Adrian Bradt and as the said Adrian Bradt has not given any Information concerning the said Party therefore resolved that he be ordered to appear before this Board to Morrow Morning –
Adjourned
July 10, 1781
Present: John M. Beeckman, Samuel Stringer, Isaac D. Fonda
It appearing from the Examination of Peter Clauw that Adrian Bradt Junr. (son of Adrian Bradt) was at Home when the party who robbed Peter Van Slyck was at his Father’s House and that he conversed with them and the said Adrian Bradt Junr. having been apprehended by Jacob Kidney and brought before the Board and being examined as to the same resolved that he enter into a Recognizance for his good Behaviour doing his duty and appearing before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when thereunto required during the Continuance of the present war with Great Britain.
Andrian Bradt Junr. of Niscthaw in the County of
Albany Farmer in £100
Peter S. Seeger of the same place Farmer his Bail in
£100
Adrian Bradt having been cited to appear before the Board appeared and was Examined and the said Adrian Bradt appearing to be much indisposed and as his being confined at this Time may endanger his Life therefore resolved that he enter into Recognizance with sufficient sureties for his remaining within the Limits of this City until discharged by this Board and for his good Behaviour in the mean Time –
Adrian Bradt of Niscuthaw in the
County of Albany Farmer in £100
James Van Zandt of the City of Albany Carpenter his
Bail in £100
John Van Nist of the Normans Kill in the County of Albany Farmer
also his Bail in £100
Frederick Miller (son in Law of Adrian Bradt) having been cited to appear before the Board and being examined with Respect to the Party who robbed Van Slyck and who were at the said Adrian Bradt’s and it appearing that he had no Conversation with the said Party, yet on Account of his Connection with the said Adrian Bradt, It is resolved that he enter into a Recognizance for his good Behaviour and appearing before any three of the Commissioners for Conspiracies when thereunto required until discharged by this Board.
Frederick Miller of Niscuthaw in the County of
Albany Cordwainer in £100
John N. Smith of the same place Wheelwright his Bail in £100
Miscellaneous
June 13, 1781
The Board having
received Information that a certain Scott who is present at New York has a
Quantity of wheat stored at Moore’s at Kats Kill and as the same ought to be
seized for the use of the Publick therefore resolved that a letter be wrote to
Hezekiah VanOrden Esqr. requesting him to make Enquiry concerning the said wheat
and have the same seized for the Public Use agreeable to Law which Letter is in
the words following (to whit) (see copy on File)