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Genealogical History 
 
 -OF THE- 
 
 VAN ALEN FAMILY 
 
 EMBRACING 
 
 A RECORD OF BIRTHS 
 MARRIAGES AND DEATHS 
 
 Biographical Sketches 
 
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 ILLUSTRATED 
 
 CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 
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 Crest, two wings endorsed gules, each 
 charged with as many chevrons argent. 
 
PREFACE 
 
 HE rapid decimation of the Van Alen family has 
 impelled the compilation of a genealogical record of 
 our kindred, so that future generations might know 
 something regarding their ancestry. 
 
 rhe Dutch wrote very little — and their records are 
 meager- hence the literature for genealogical research, is for 
 the most part, shut up in the archives of historical libraries, 
 and in giving in printed form the results of patient research 
 through those agencies, also correspondence with relatives 
 covering a period of several years. I take pleasure in pre- 
 senting a record, gleaned from public and historic family 
 documents, which I believe has been correctly collated. 
 
 My most cordial thanks are due, and are hereby extended 
 to the kind relatives who have helped me collect the material 
 and data, and loaned the valuable papers, etc., which have 
 been reproduced in this publication. 
 
 Benjamin Tayi.or Van Alen. 
 
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 THE VAN ALEN FAMILY in this country are undoubtedly from the direct and 
 ancestral lineage of Lourens von Hallen, who came to Amsterdam from the Town 
 of Hallen, lying between Amsterdam and Utrecht, in The Netherlands. 
 
 The name Van Alen is evidently derived from Haelen or Hallen — and an 
 anglization of Van from "Von" signifying "from" — and Hallen to Alen — making 
 the name Van Alen — or in Dutch Von Hallen, and has passed through the varied 
 forms of Von Hallen, Van Haelen, Van Halen — Van Ale — Van Aelen — Van Allen and 
 Van Alen. The Kinderhook family, and a large majority of descendents adopting the spell- 
 ing, Van Alen. 
 
 Pieter Van Halen, born in Holland about the year 1630, presumably a grandson of Lourens 
 Von Hallen, was the first of the Van Alen family to come to America, sailing fromi Utrecht 
 in the year 1658 on the ship De Vergulde Bever ("Gilded Beaver"), captain Jan Reyersz 
 Van der Beets, accompanied by his wife, two small children and a boy. 
 
 He settled at Beaverwyck (Albany) in 1658, pursuing his trade of a tailor, and specu- 
 lating as a trader in beaver skins. 
 
 He was evidently a justice of the peace, as there are two records in 1664 where he took 
 acknowledgments, and in the same year was surety for Jan D. Van Eps, who had purchased 
 a brewery, the payment for same being made in beaver skins of the value of i i 50 guilders. 
 
 No record has been found indicating the demise of his wife, yet in the year 1669 he 
 married Maria Teller, daughter of Wilhelmus Teller, the wachtmeester (watchman) of the 
 fort — presumably Fort Orange — Albany. 
 
 A grant of land was made to him at Kinderhook, in the then county of Albany (now 
 Columbia county), and province of New York, on June 26, 1668, by Colonel Richard 
 Nichols — commanding the English military force — and who was the first English governor of 
 the province, his commission bearing date June 12, 1665. Pieter Van Halen died at Kin- 
 derhook, N. Y , January. 1674, leaving three sons, namely: Pieter, Wilhelmus and 
 Johannes 
 
 No record can be found of the marriage of the son Pieter. Wilhelmus married Marytje 
 Van Patten in 1694, and Johannes married Christina Ten Broek in 1701; their children 
 being Pieter, Adam, Maria, Christina, Lourence, Dirck and Lena. 
 
 Their son Adam, born 1703, died 1784, married Maria Koseboom June 20, 1732. Their 
 children were: Abraham E., Lourens E., Jacobus, Adam E., Dirck and John Evert. 
 
 Abraham E., their oldest son^ married Mary Freyenmoet February 18, 1771. Their 
 children were: Evert, born September 13, 1772; Magdalena, Freyenmoet, Maria Helena 
 and Jannetje (twins), and Abraham A. 
 
 Lourens E. married Margaret Van Schaack, sister of Peter Van Schaack, L.L. D., an 
 eminent and distinguished jurist. Their children were: Cornelius, Margaret, Peter L., 
 Alida and Maria. 
 
 Jacobus married twice, his wives being Christina Van Burenand Cathrina Kittle. Their 
 children were Andrew, Evert I., John, Jacobus, Adam, Sophia and Stephen. 
 
 Adam E. married . Their children were: John A., Evert, Austin, 
 
 Margaret, Anne and Lydia Maria. 
 
 Dirck married Elbertje Van Buren. Their children were: Evert D , Dirck, 
 Margaret, Catherine and Laurence. 
 
 John Evert married Anne Freyenmoet May 5, 1771, she being a sister of his brother 
 Abraham's wife and daughter of Dominie Freyenmoet, then pastor of the Kinderhook Dutch 
 Reformed church. There is no record of any children having been born to them. 
 
^^^^^^Hl 
 
 ru 0- 
 
 
 
 w 
 
 
 Van Alen Farm Hou.se ai Kindkkhook. N. Y. 
 
 Historical research by Mr. John P Ritter, of New Yori<, has developed the fact that 
 the Van Alen family were among the earliest settlers of Kin^erhook, where they acquired a 
 large tract of land, placed upon it a great number of slaves, and in a few years had accumu- 
 lated sufficient means to erect a house of bricks imported from Holland. He gives the date 
 of its erection as 1739, while another authority states, "that, according to the curious iron 
 figures imbedded in one of its walls, it was built in the year 1766." 
 
 Great locust trees stood guard about this home, together with a few poplars, and 
 girding the garden were thick hedges of bo.\. 
 
 This homestead was, in all probability, erected by Adam Van Alen, son of Johannes, 
 and was located on the Albany and New York post road, adjoining the farm which in later 
 years was owned and occupied by Martin Van Buren, afterwards President of the United 
 States. 
 
 The early Dutch residents of Albany, Kinderhook and vicinity, constituted a kind of 
 landed aristocracy, and, with their numerous retainers and slaves held a sort of feudal court 
 in the grand old mansions which may still be found dotted here and there in the Hudson 
 River section of the State. They were a vigorous, well balanced race, energetic and social. 
 The treatment accorded their slaves, as well as the Mohican Indians, by these Dutch set- 
 tlers, was marked by the highest elements of humanity and Christian kindness. While 
 bitter Theological and Political controversies shook New England, the Dutch of New York 
 held fast to their Bibles, tilled the soil, and, if not the most prosperous of the New World's 
 people, were certainly the happiest. 
 
 The family seat of the Van Alens at Kinderhook was one of the historical and ancestral 
 homes around whose hearthstones the associations of by-gone generations gather in the 
 shadows of advancing time. 
 
 They were people in comfortable circunistances and remarkably good livers. Sim- 
 plicity, contentment, easy going industry, and love of harmless amusement pervaded their 
 daily life. 
 
In their domestic relations is found a strong development of all Dutch characteristics. 
 The family altar was held in sacred esteem. The cradle, the bridal, and the tomb were 
 surrounded by the highest attributes of filial affection, conscientious devotion to duty, and 
 reverent love. Among no other nationality are the ties of kindred more clearly recognized 
 or more firmly maintained. 
 
 For years the old families of Dutch descent in New York City and environs were looked 
 upon as the models of fashion and deportment, and their social life and doings were regu- 
 larly chronicled m the newspapers. 
 
 To-day they have almost entirely dropped from the public eye, and it is deplorable to 
 chronicle that social prominence seems now based more largely upon wealth than ancient 
 lineage. 
 
 Mr. Harold Van Santvoord, of New York, has in his possession an autograph letter, 
 written by Washington Irving, in answer to one from his friend Jesse Merwin, of Kinder- 
 hook. It was found among Irving's papers after his death, and, upon the back was endorsed 
 in the great author's own hand writing, "From Jesse Merwin, the original Ichabod Crane.'' 
 The following e.xcerpt has been taken from that letter: 
 
 Do you remember our fishing expedition in company with Congressman Van Alen, to the little lake a few miles 
 from Kinderhook, and John Moore, the vagabond Admiral of the lake, who sat crouched in a heap in the middle of his 
 canoe in the center of the lake, with fishing rods stretching out in every direction like the long legs of a spider? and do 
 you remember our piratical prank when we made up for our bad luck in fishing, by plundering his canoe of its fish 
 when we found it adrift; and do you remember how John Moore came splashing along the marsh on the opposite 
 border of the lake, roaring at us, and how we finished our frolic by driving off and leaving the Congressman to John 
 Moore's mercy, tickling ourselves with the idea of his being scalped at least. By the way, that same John Moore and 
 the anecdotes you told me of him, gave the idea of a vagabond character, "Dirck Schuyler," in my Knickerbocker's 
 History of New York, which I was then writing. 
 
 Irving, while sojourning at Lindenwald, only two miles away, formed an intimacy with 
 a district school teacher named Merwin, whom he acknowledges to have been the prototype 
 of Ichabod Crane. 
 
 His letter, quoted above, indicates this fact; also his having an acquaintance with 
 Congressman Van Alen — and that he and his friend, Jesse Merwin, must have been welcome 
 visitors in the Van Alen home. 
 
 Among the older inhabitants of Kinderhook, there may be found several who recall the 
 traditions of Katrina Van Alen, a girl renowned for her beauty and coquetry. Her name is 
 not found in the list of children of Abraham E. Van Alen, yet it is a fair inference that she 
 was a cousin of Congressman Van Alen, probably being Catherine, the daughter of Dirck 
 Van Alen, and at that time an inmate of the old home. 
 
 In Kinderhook, therefore, were to be found the characters of Irving's book. She was 
 evidently the Katrina Van Tassel, who married a certain Abram Van Alstyne, "Brom Bones," 
 who was famed throughout that country for his feats of strength and hardihood. In the 
 Van Alen homestead at Kinderhook the "Legend of Sleepy Hollow" probably first took form 
 in Irving's mind. .'\nd in transferring the scene of the romance, he was no doubt, prompted 
 by a kind consideration of his friends. 
 
 Abstract from a historical paper by Hon. Henry C Van Schaack: 
 
 It is a singular fact that Kinderhook is in some way associated with duels. The Van .'^len duel, like that of 
 Burr and Hamilton, has some connection with the old Van Ness mansion. 
 
 Peter L. Van .\len, whose mother was a sister of Peter Van Schaack, L. L. D., was born in the old Van Alen 
 mansion still standing near Lindenwald (Van Buren's old home, now over 200 years old). He was a young man of 
 great promise. In 1792 he went to Georgia as an o65cerin the regular army, married, and a man of distinction. He 
 was prepared to leave the army for the bar in 1795. He became Solicitor General for the Northern District of 
 Georgia. Such was his position when he was killed in a duel with William C. Crawford, who was afterwards Secre. 
 tary of the Treasury under President Monroe. 
 
John Evert Van Alen, in all probability the youngest son of Adam and Maria Van Alen, 
 was born at Kinderhook, N. Y., in the year 1749, died March, 1807, and was married to 
 Anne Freyenmont May 5, 1771. 
 
 He resided during his youth at Kmderhook, and, just prior to his marriage, moved to 
 the Town of Greenbush. This town was surveyed by him in the year 1790, and also in 
 1S06 by his nephew, Evert Van Alen, both surveys being made for John J. Van Rensellaer. 
 
 Greenbush, at this time, was eight (8) miles square and included East Greenbush, 
 North Greenbush, Rensellaerwyck, Blooming Grove, Bath, part of Sand Lake, and a strip 
 that was annexed to Troy m 1836 
 
 About the year 1778 he purchased a tract of land, nearly four hundred (400) acres in 
 extent, situated in what is now the Town of De Freestville, and built upon it the Van Alen 
 homestead. The house is generous in its proportions. Contains over twenty rooms, many 
 of its walls being elaborately ornamented with painted decorations. The cellar has eight 
 distinct rooms, besides extensive quarters for the slaves owned by him at that time. 
 
 Van Alen Homestead at De Freest Ville 
 
 'Alone it stands, so old, and bare, and gray. 
 Its huge brick chimney's towering toward the sky. 
 
In addition to extensive farming operations, he conducted a general store at Greenbush 
 on the Hudson River, and followed his professional vocation of civil engineer and surveyor. 
 He was distinguished for his learning and legal ability; also for strenuous and unremitting 
 work. 
 
 The act creating Rensellaer county and setting it off from Albany county, was passed 
 February 17, 1791, and the next day, February 18, 1791, he was appointed assistant court 
 justice. 
 
 In 1792 he was elected to Congress and served for three consecutive terms, 1793 to 
 1799, during the presidency of George Washington, and when the Congress met in the 
 City of Philadelphia. 
 
 In his second election he defeated Henry K. Van Rensellaer fPatroon of Rensellaer 
 county ) 
 
 Herewith is reproduced the fly leaf from a bound copy of Congressional Records, of 
 1795, showing his handwriting at time he was a member of Congress. 
 
 John:e Van ale^ 
 
 ^indcrhooh.-.Di&.vict 
 ALBANY aOVNTY^ 
 
 In the early history of New York it was the custom and law for a joint committee of 
 the Senate and Assembly of the State to meet as canvassers of the votes and to certify the 
 election of National officers. Congressman Van Alen's third election was, in accordance, 
 announced as follows: 
 
 To THE Hon John E. VanAlen; New York, Jan. 20, 1797. 
 
 In Congress, 
 
 Philadelphia. 
 I have the honor to transmit to you a certificate of your re-election to the House of Representatives of the 
 United States. 
 
 Tho not personally known to you, permit me to congratulate you upon this lenctaed proof which you have 
 received of the confidence of your fellow citizens, and of the testimony it affords of their attachment to those prin- 
 ciples of order and good government, which have been your guide. 
 
 I am, sir, with much respect. 
 
 Your obt. servant, 
 
 Iacoh Morton. Secretary. 
 ■5 
 
Possessing qualities with which nature had evidently endowed him, Congressman 
 VanAlen entered into political activity as naturally as a growing plant seeks light and air. 
 Without apparent ambition he seems to have possessed a rare power of making friends and 
 keeping them, and his intimacies appear the greater among the higher and influential men 
 of the day. 
 
 While attending a session of the Congress in Philadelphia, on April 15, 1794, he 
 addressed a letter to his intimate friend, Peter VanSchaack (a reproduction of the address 
 bearing his "congressional frank" is given below): 
 
 ^y-T^^c^ 
 
 Closing that letter with this expression: 
 
 "As I consider this an interesting question, will write you every step that is taken in it. 
 and in the interim remain with the greatest truth. Your sincere friend." 
 
 Evidence of his having held a close and intimate friendship with President George 
 Washington is shown in invitations and gifts made by the President to both him and his wife. 
 
 iM/i^.c/h lA/> /7^£iJnrr L'/\.,^ ^^o..^ /Z^La^J^- 
 (l/ y^ o'CufcA. 
 
 ^4^^/^ 
 
 ^ / 
 
 
 (The handwriting is believed to be that of George Washington) 
 
 iG 
 
Herewith is shown one of a pair of sugar bowls presented to Martha Washington by an 
 Indian sachem at Philadelphia in 1774. Mrs. Washington, after the lapse of twenty years, 
 presented this particular one to Mrs. John Evert Van Alen, wife of the first congressman 
 from the Kinderhook district. It is carved from a cocoa nut shell, handsomely mounted in 
 silver and ornamented with a silver plate bearing the inscription: 
 
 •^- 
 
 -^ 
 
 PRESENTED 
 
 TO 
 
 MRS. JOHN E. VAN ALEN 
 
 BY 
 
 MARTHA WASHINGTON 
 
 Philadelphia. Pa. 
 1794 
 
 ^- 
 
 -^- 
 
 Anne Van Alen, wife of Congressman Van Alen, bequeathed this souvenir, by will, to 
 Dericka Van Alen, wife of her nephew. Evert Van Alen, upon whose demise it came into 
 possession of her daughter, Ann Maria Van Alen. and was for years in daily use in the old 
 home. Just prior to her death she presented it to her nephew, Herman Van Alen, who now 
 holds it. 
 
 Congressman Van Alen's method of making his loans quite secure is well evidenced by 
 a note reproduced herewith fexact size); 
 
 
 
 y<^T^^ '?-^^tyrtX)a,^ 
 
 In Sylvester's History of Rensellaer county are records of John E. Van Alen being 
 elected County Judge on February 27, i8oo, and a member of the Assembly in 1801. 
 
 The wills of John Evert Van Alen and Anne, his wife, are herewith given in full, the 
 latter, in spelling, puucluation, etc., being identical with the original document m possession 
 of the compiler of this work: 
 
In the name of Uod, Amen 
 
 I; John E. Van Alen. of the Town of Rensellaerwyck. in the County of Rensellaer. and State of New York, being 
 in perfect health and of sound mind, memory and understanding, but considering the uncertainty of this transitory life^ 
 do make, publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner and form following, to-wit: 
 
 I will that all my just debts and funeral expenses be duly satisfied and paid in some convenient time after my 
 decease. 
 
 I give, devise and bequeath to my beloved wife, Anne Van .Men, for and during the time she shall remain my 
 widow, my dwelling house, barn, and farm of land with the appurtenances whereon I now live, situate in the Town of 
 Rensellaerwyck aforesaid; and also the use and income of all my servants, farming utensils, carriages, slays, horses, 
 cattle, sheep, and hogs; and also all the interest that shall grow due after my decease on all such obligations or securi- 
 ties for money as shall be then due and owing to me after a liquidation and payment of all my just debts. To hold the 
 same to my said wife, Anne, until her re-marriage or decease, which shall first happen. And I also give to my said wife 
 and to her heirs and assigns forever, all her wearing apparel, and all my household furniture and riding chair, and my 
 negro girl named Dinah. And, if she remarry, then and in such case. I give and bequeath to her the sum of one 
 hundred pounds. New York money, to be raised out of my personal estate, and paid her in six weeks after her remar- 
 riage if she will accept thereof in full lien and satisfaction for her right of dower in or to my estate. 
 
 I give and bequeath to my brothers, Abraham. Lourens, Jacobus. Derek and Adam, all my wearing apparel, to 
 be by them equally divided at the expiration of six weeks after my demise, and from and immediately after the remar- 
 riage or decease of my said wife, which shall first happen. Then I give, devise and bequeath to my nephew. Evert 
 Van Alen, son of my brother Abraham, my dwelling house, barn and farm of land, with the appurtenances on which I 
 now live, situate in the Town of liensellaerwyck; and all my farming utensils, sleys. one surveying compass and chain, 
 with all my surveying books, maps and papers; also ray negro boy named Tom. and two cows and ten sheep. To hold 
 the same to my said nephew. Evert Van Alen, and to his heirs and assigns forever. On the express terms that he 
 support, maintain and keep his sister, Helena, with clothing and boarding in the manner she is now kept, from the 
 time of his taking possession of the above estate until her marriage; and that he pay her the sum of one hundred and 
 fifty pounds. New York money, in three equal and annual payments, the first of which payments to be at the expiration 
 of two years after the remarriage or decease of my wife, which shall first happen, and to continue annually thereafter 
 until the whole be paid, and which I hereby bequeath to her. 
 
 I give and bequeath to my nephew, John P. VanBuren. son of my brother-in-law. Peter B. Van Buren. deceased, 
 the sum of twenty pounds. New York money, to be raised out of my personal estate, and paid him by my executors 
 hereinafter named at the expiration of six months after the remarriage or decease of my wife, which shall first happen. 
 
 I give and bequeath to my nephew. Andrus Kittle, son of my brother-in-law, Nicholas Kittle, the sum of twenty 
 pounds, to be raised out of my personal estate and paid to him by my executors hereinafter named at the expiration of 
 six months after the remarriage or decease of my wife, which shall first happen; and. in consideration of the faithful 
 services rendered me by my negro man named Gus, and my negro woman named Mol, it is my will that from and after 
 the remarriage or decease of my wife, which shall first happen, they respectfully be and hereby are perfectly and 
 entirely manumitted and discharged from any further service; and from and immediately after the remarriage or demise 
 of my wife, which shall first happen; then 1 give, devise and bequeath all the rest, residue and remainder of my real 
 estate and personal not hereinbefore particularly willed or disposed of to the three youngest children of my brother, 
 Abraham, namely: Freyenmoet. Maria, and .Abraham, and to all the children of mv brothers. I..ourens. Derek, 
 Jacobus, and Adam, to be by them divided in manner following, that is to say: One-fifth part thereof to the said three 
 children of my brother, Abraham; one-fifth part thereof to all the children of my brother, Lourens; one-fifth part 
 thereof to all the children of my brother, Derek; one-fifth part thereof to all the children of my brother. Jacobus, and 
 one-fifth part thereof to all the children of my brother. Adam, to be by them divided in the manner above mentioned at 
 the expiration of six months after the remarriage or decease of my wife, which shall first happen. But as to the shares 
 of such of the above children as shall be minors at the division above mentioned (if any such there be) it is mv will and 
 I hereby direct my executors hereinafter named to put the same at interest, on good security, for the use and benefit of 
 such child or children until they shall respectfully attain the age of twenty-one years, and. on that day to pay them the 
 respective shares, with the interest accrued thereon. And I hereby nominate, constitute and appoint my beloved wife, 
 Anne Van Alen, executrix, and my brother, Lourens E. Van Alen. and my nephew. Evert Van Alen, and my respected 
 friend, Peter Van Schaack, Esq., executors of this my last will and testament; hereby utterly revoking, disannulling 
 and making void all former and other wills, legacies and executors by me in any wise before named willed or appointed, 
 ratifying, allowing and confirming this and no other, to be my last will and testament. 
 
 In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal the twenty-first day of November, in the year of our 
 I-ord one thousand se\'en hundred and ninety-three. 
 
 John E. V.^n .\i.kn. [l. s.] 
 
 Signed, sealed, published, pronounced and declared by the said John E. Van Alen as and for his last will and 
 testament, in the presence of us, and presence of each other, who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses 
 thereto. 
 
 J.'vcoB Van .A.LSTVNE, 
 .■\nna VanAlstyne, 
 Catrina Van Alstvne. 
 
/« the name of God, Amen. 
 
 I, Anne Van Alen, widow of John E. Van Alen, deceased, of the Town of Greenbush, in the County of Rensellaer, 
 being weak in Body but of Perfect and sound mind and memory, Blessed be Almighty God for the same, but considering 
 the uncertainty of this Mortal Life, do make. Publish, and Declare this my last will and testament in Manor and form 
 Following, to- Wit: 
 
 First. 1 will that all my Just Debts and Funeral Expenses be duly satisfied and Paid out of my Personal 
 Property, by my Executor hereinafter mentioned, in some Convenient time after my Decease. 
 
 /tern. I give and bequeath to my sister, Mary Van Alen. wife of Abram E. Van Alen, deceased, all my wearing 
 apparel and Linnen, which is not hereinafter particularly willed and Disposed of, and to her heirs. 
 
 /tern. I give and bequeath to Ann Maria Van Alen, Daughter of Evert Van Alen, and to Judith Ann Labach, 
 Daughter of Peter Labach all my Plate, to be by them Equally Divided, Share and Share alike, by my Executor 
 hereinafter mentioned, when Either of them shall marry or arrive to the age of Eighteen years, which shall first happen. 
 
 /tem. I give and bequeath to the said above Judith Ann Labach, my Satten Cloak and black silk gown, as also 
 my white Curtained Bedsted and beding thereto belonging, as it now stands in the White Room, together with the White 
 muzlen window Curtens. to have the same when she shall marry a husband or arrive at the age of Eighteen years. 
 
 /tem. I give and bequeath to the said above .Kan Maria Van Alen my satten gown and Petticoat, and blue 
 Curtained Bed and bedsted, as with appurtenances thereto as it now stands in the green room, together with the blue 
 Window Curtens. 
 
 /tem. I give and bequeath to Isaac Labach. son of Peter Labach. one Hundred dollars when he shall arrive to 
 the age of Twenty-one years. 
 
 Item. I give and bequeath to Derica Van .\len. wife of Evert \'an .\len, my Pattenet Cloak and Cocoa Shell 
 Sugar cup. 
 
 item. 1 give and bequeath to Nicholas Kittle, of Kinderhook. all the interest due from him to me on certain 
 obligations which he signed to my late husband, John E. Van Alen 
 
 /lem. I give and bequeath to John E. Van Alen. son of Evert Van Alen, my Single Slev and the Harness thereto 
 belonging. 
 
 /tem. I give and bequeath to my black woman, Moll, one Pair Linen Sheets two Pair Pillow cases two 
 Blankets, one Shift and bumbazett gown. 
 
 /tem. AH the Rest, Residue and Remainder of all my property, both Real and Personal, not herein before 
 Particularly willed and Disposed of, I Give, devise and bequeath to my Nephiew, Evert Van Alen, and to his Heirs and 
 .\ssigns forever; and I do hereby nominate and appoint my said Nephiew, Evert Van Alen, as Executor to this my last 
 will and testament, hereby utterly Revoking, disannulling and making Void all other and former wills by me made. 
 
 in witness whereof I have hereunto set m}' hand and seal the Twenty-third day of November, in the year of our 
 Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixteen. 
 
 ui/tfU^ ^a^L^-^e^^ 
 
 IL, S.] 
 
 Signed, sealed, published and declared by the above named Anne Van Alen to be her last will and testament in 
 the presence of us, who ha\'e hereto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the testatrix. 
 
 .\nn Defreist, 
 Olive Phelps, 
 John Defreist. Jt;NR. 
 
 Here follows a letter written by Anne Van Alen, when her husband was attending a 
 session of the Congress in Philadelphia. 
 
 It is a clear exemplification of her noble Christian character, and also displays her love 
 for and confidence in her husband, and anxiety for him while under the influence of his 
 Political associates. 
 
 She had quite evidently been informed through the medium of the weekly newspaper, 
 of the famous and now historical episode on the iloor of the House of Representatives, 
 participated in by Roger Griswold, armed with a hickory stick — and Mattliew Lyon opposing 
 him with a pair of tongs. 
 
My Dkak: — 
 
 Since my last I liave nothing new but to acknowledge yours of tlie I4tli and 19th. They afford me cause of grati- 
 tude that, in addition to so many undeserved favors, you can tell me you are in health — a living monument of God's 
 mercy — and oh that grace may be given us so to number our few remaining and uncertain days, as to apply our hearts 
 to wisdom, and to prepare for that awful change that awaits us: to seek the Lord while he is to be found, and call on 
 him while he is near. May the scenes of disorder in our National Assembly cause you to reflect and search for the 
 cause of these things. Why are the people at large permitted to help on their ruin by choosing such men in their 
 National Councils? It is because they seek, not direction from the Lord, who would point out to them men fearing 
 God and working righteousness. In the house of the National Legislature, are these words of the Saviour verified: 
 Those that forsake me will I also leave to the perverseness of their evil hearts to do those things that are unseemly. 
 
 I have heard nothing since my last about that gentleman's writing you on a certain affair, and believe you are 
 right in your conjecture about that family — and am pleased to find you so indifferent — and believe you when you say, 
 "There is little satisfaction now to be taken in Congress." The conduct of that once honorable body now grows con- 
 temptable, and one and all are blamed. 
 
 The ground is yet covered with snow — for some days past thawing weather — the sleighing is but indifferent. Our 
 stock well, and fodder likely to hold out well. With love your affectionate. 
 
 Greenbush, 2gth Feby., 1798. Ann VanAlen. 
 
 Evi 
 
 Alkn 
 
 Evert Van Alen, son of Abraham E. and Mary Freyenmoet Van Alen — was born at 
 Kinderhook, N. Y., September 13, 1772 — died at De Freest Ville, Augtist 14, 1854; 
 married Dericka Knickerbocker, daughter of Colonel Johannes and Elizabeth Knickerbocker 
 of Schas^hticoke, N. Y. . August i, 1801, the ceremony being performed by Dominie Page. 
 
 She was born January 27, 1783, and died December 21, 1833, was a lady of amiable 
 disposition, a worthy member of the Dutch Reformec'. Church, and to the poor, a kind and 
 benevolent friend. 
 
His mother died when he was a comparatively youag child — and he was adopted by his 
 uncle, John Evert Van Alen, (Congressman), who had no children, and thereby became 
 heir to the Bloocning Grove home and estate. 
 
 Early in life he adopted the profession of Civil Engineer and Surveyor. April 17, 
 18 1 7, the Legislature of the State of New York passed an act authorizing the construction 
 ot a canal from the Hudson River to Lake Erie, a distance of 363 miles, this was known as 
 the Erie Canal — and was first opened for traffic on October 26, 1825. Evert Van Alen was 
 employed for two years as surveyor and engineer upon the eastern end of that extensive 
 work, and in the year 18 18 he surveyed and prepared a map of the City of Albany — the 
 title of which is herewith reproduced in exact size. 
 
 His efficient work, soon gave him a wide reputation and substantial income, and 
 enabled him to suitably provide for and educate his extensive family of children. 
 
 In a letter to his uncle, the Congressman, bearing date, Greenbush, January 2, 1796, 
 he writes: — 
 
 My Dear Uncle: — 
 
 I cannot help remarking how well our domestics have behaved themselves in keeping Christmas and New Years. 
 Gus has yet his usual faults in being out of nights, exceptive of this never could a family with the number of them 
 that we have live more in peace and harmony than we do. 
 
 As this is the second day of the New Year, I must wish you and my dear aunt the compliments of it. 
 
 I remain your obedient nephiew, 
 
 EvEFT Van Alen. 
 
 His employment professionally by foreigners, is shown by the following copy of a letter 
 by him addressed to 
 
 LORD AMHURST 
 
 City of London 
 • England 
 
 My Lord; — 
 
 I am to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated 4th January, i8og. as also the one dated March ist. 1S09. 
 together with the power of attorney, which have safe arrived. 
 
 It appears from the information I received from a gentleman who, last year, was an inhabitant at Lake Pleasant 
 and just removed from there, says; That there is little attention in the settlement made at Lake Pleasant since the 
 date of my last and that settlers are not now coming in as fast as was expected. 
 
 I have been to the Comptroller's office, paid up the taxes due on your Township No. 3. which is S129.25 
 
 For which I enclose you a Bill and Recpt 
 
 Balance due to my late Uncle, J. E, Van .\len 27.00 
 
 Postage of the Power of Atty. and Letters 1.95 
 
 Equal to ;f 35 — 1 1 — 9 sterling $ 158. 20 
 
 For which-swm I have drawn Bill of Exchange in favour of John D. P. Douw & Co. on your Banker in London. 
 
 I remain, yours \-ery sincerely, 
 Greenbush, July, 1809. Evert Van Alen. 
 
June 5, iSii, he was commissioned Captain, in 3rd Regiment Cavalry, N.Y. State Militia, 
 located in Rensellaer county. This rej^iment offered its services to the National o;overnment 
 in the war 1812, and were quartered for a period in barracks at Greenbush — but saw no 
 active service. 
 
 On April 2, 18(3 — he was elected a Justice of the Peace, and this is the only record 
 found showing that he held any public office. 
 
 Among numerous cancelled cheques, those illustrated below (exact size) will serve to 
 show accounts kept by him in the banks of two cities. 
 
 TROY, ^ay]rA^ /2 
 
 1S3> 
 
 Cashier of the JflerchanW A' Jflechanics'' Battk, 
 
 ipAi? -h—fh: (y3^-cA 
 
 or Bearer, ^^t-i^Y 
 'flu^.^^M^oA^Jei/t^V^ t<^J Dollars (j^ Cents. 
 
 'Ay^, ^. 
 
 Ko. 
 
 Cashier of the Bank of Alhaiiy, 
 
 JPtty to \SCu.^'^M^C'''^^^if^a-ir or Sealery 
 JUJO iiu\^ dvcvi ^ U^'tt^ M^ ~ ^oiial^. 
 
 IcOfr^^'^^'- 
 
 There was nothing unlovelv in Evert Van Alen. He was an active and eminently 
 useful citizen. He was neither rich nor poor. His ancestry were God-fearing people, 
 intelligent and upright, without pretension, and without humility — hence his home was a 
 home of probity, piety, and patriotism, and his actions were moulded in accordance with the 
 strict rules of Christianity that governed his entire life. He was the incarnation of truth, 
 and the embodiment of every lofty idea. His personal influence was always for the best. 
 His kindness unfailing, and his very presence an encouragement to all who were brought in 
 contact with him. His nature is best exemplified by a perusal of the following letter, found 
 attached to his last will and testament. 
 
^-■^^t^ 
 
 ^^-^^S'^'^ <^£t.-£^^i^ <«^»-i-^*!^ /!<f~t>ty 4i''i'^i,^c^ trY ^Y^r-t,,^ y^ ^^<u<^_^ 
 
 fi^-^/y^'z^ 
 
 ^"^Y^ '^^ ^ 
 
 Xast Mill of Evert Dan Hlen. 
 
 /?7 //^f name of God^ Amen. 
 
 I, Evert Van Alen, of the Town of Green Bush, in the County of Rensellaer, and State of New York, being in 
 good health and of perfect and sound mind and memory. Blessed be Almighty God for the same. But considering 
 the uncertainty of this mortal life, I do make, publish and declare this my Last Will and Testament in manner and 
 form following, to-Wit: 
 
 First. I will that all my just debts and funeral expenses be duly satisfied and paid out of my personal property 
 by my executors, hereinafter named, in some convenient time after my decease. 
 
 Item. I give and bequeath all my wearing apparel to my six sons, namely. John, Stephen V. R., William K., 
 
 Abraham. Benjamin Taylor and Jacob Pruyn, to be by them equally divided at the expiration of six weeks after my 
 
 decease 
 
 23 
 
Item. I give, devise and liequeath to my son, John l'^. Van Alen, my dwelling house, barn, orchard, and that 
 easterly half of my farm whereon I now live, the westerly bounds of which will begin at a stake and stones in the north 
 line of my said farm which is on the south side of the Albany and Sand Lake Plank Road, and on the top of the hill 
 commonly called Fransen Bergh, and runs from the said stake and stones South twenty-nine degrees and thirty 
 minutes. West sixteen chains to the South post of a swing gate, then North seventy-one degrees, West eight chains 
 and ninety-five links to a walnut tree, then due West three chains and twenty-six links to a stake, then South thirty 
 degrees, West twelve chains to a stake in the South line of my said farm, then along the outlines thereof Easterly and 
 Northerly to the before mentioned Plank Road and then along the same Westerly to the place of beginning, contain- 
 ing Ninety-one Acres and live-tenths of an acre of land. To have and to hold the said above described farm to my said 
 son John, and to his heirs and assigns for ever on the express terms and condition that he pays to my son Stephen the 
 sum of Eight hundred dollars at the expiration of one year after my decease, and always excepting and reserving out 
 of the above described premises my family Burial ground as the same is now enclosed in a fence. It is my will and I 
 hereby order and direct that the same shall remain undisturbed and never be disposed of to any other person and to be 
 kept as the same now is with a good and sufficient fence at the expense of said farm, and for the faithful perform- 
 ance of which I hereby appoint my executors hereinafter named as Trustees to watch and preserve the same forever. 
 
 Item. I give, devise and bequeath to my said son John E. Van .Alen. his heirs and assigns forever, my house 
 and lot in the Village of Blooming Grove lying on the North side of the Albany and Sand Lake Plank road, as the same 
 is now enclosed in fence and lately occupied by William Terrel, Dec'd. I also give and bequeath to my said son John 
 my day clock and stoves which are now in the house, as also my pew No. 7 in the Church of Blooming Grove. 
 
 Item,. I give, devise and bequeath to my son Stephen V. R. Van Alen, all that westerly part of my farm 
 whereon I now live, bounding on the East by the courses and distances herein before described in the devise to my son 
 John, Northerly by the .Albany and Sand Lake Plank road, Westerly by the farm lately of William P. Van Rensellaer, 
 and Southerly by the brook or run of water and the farm hereinafter devised to my Son Jacob Pruyn, containing ninety- 
 one acres and five-tenths of an acre of land. To have and to hold the last above described farm to my said son 
 Stephen, and to his heirs and assigns forever. 
 
 Item- I give, devise and bequeath to my son Abraham E. \'an Alen, his heirs, and assigns, the Towelling 
 house. Barn, and Southerly part of my farm whereon he now lives, containing eighty acres according to the boundaries 
 described in a deed from William P. Van Rensellaer. and a line lately run and established by me as the North line or 
 division line between him and my son Jacob Pruyn and a fence made on the same accordingly, to have and to hold the 
 said farm to my said son Abraham and to his heirs and assigns forever. 
 
 Item. I give, devise and bequeath to my son Jacob Pruyn. his heirs and assigns, my Dwelling house, Barn and 
 thirty acres and seven-tenths acres whereon he now lives and has the same in his actual possession, and according to a 
 line by me established as the division line between him and my son .Abraham. 1 also give, devise and bequeath to my 
 said son Jacob Pruyn Van Alen sixty-four acres and seven-tenths of an acre, as the same is now in his actual posses- 
 sion, and which is commonly called the new farm. I also give, devise, and bequeath to him my house and lot in the 
 Village of Blooming Grove, as the same is now in fence and occupied by Randolph Hickerty, lying on the North side 
 of Albany and Sand Lake Plank road, to have and to hold the said above described farms and lot to my said son. Jacob 
 Pruyn Van Alen, and to his heirs and assigns for ever I also give and bequeath to him all my surveying books, maps 
 and papers relative to surveying, as also Compasses. Chains, flrafting and Levelling instruments, as also my pew No. 
 36 in the Church of Blooming Grove. 
 
 Item. I give, devise and bequeath to my son, Benjamin Taylor, his heirs and assigns, my two Dwelling houses, 
 Dock and lot of ground in the Village of West Troy, known as Lot number twelve (12) and also lot No, 95, containing 
 190 acres lying and adjoining the East shore of Lake George in the Town of Putnam, Washington County, to have and 
 to hold the last above devises to my said son. Benjamin Taylor Van .-Men, and to his heirs and assigns forever. 
 
 Item.. I give and bequeath to my son, William K. Van Alen, a Bond I hold against him for One thousand 
 dollars, and also the further sum of Five hundred dollars to be raised out of my personal property and to be paid to 
 him by my executors hereinafter named, in some convenient time after my decease. I also give to him my iron safe. 
 
 Ite>n. I give, devise and bequeath to my Cirandson Harman, son of my daughter Christina, and to my Grandson 
 Harinan, son of my son John, Jointly, and to their heirs and assigns, half an acre of land on the North side of and 
 adjoining the Plank Road, as the same was conveyed by Abr'm Whitbeck to my son Harman, Deed, and which is 
 commonly called Harmans's lot, and to their heirs and assigns forever. 
 
 Item,. 1 give, devise and bequeath to my daughter, .A.nn Maria, my house and lot in the Village of Blooming 
 Grove, as the same was lately occupied by Reuben Terrel, Dec'd, now occupied by James Page, lying on and adjoin- 
 ing the North side of the Albany and Sapd Lake Plank road, and to her heirs and assigns forever, and also the sum of 
 Two hundred dollars to make up her portion of her outset, and also my Silver Tea Pot and Tea Spoons, as also my 
 Gold Watch, and Carriage, and plated harness, and also my Pew No. 55 in the Church of Blooming Grove, to have 
 and to hold the same to my said daughter. Ann Maria, and to her heirs and assigns forever. 
 
 Item. I give and bequeath to my Grandson Harman, son of my son John, my silver watch and silver spurs. 
 
 Item. I give to my Grandson Evert, son of my son John, my Sword and Pistols and Sash, and my Buggy 
 Waggon and harness, and to his heirs and assigns. 
 
Hem. I give and bequeath to my four daughters, and to their legal heirs, to-wit; Ann Maria, unmarried, 
 Elizabeth, wife of William Van Veghten; Christina, wife of Cornelius C. Van Reypen; and Cornelia, wife of John I. 
 Van Home, the sum of One thousand dollars each, to be raised out of my personal property by my executors herein- 
 after named, and to be paid to them as soon as the same can be collected after my decease. I also give to them, my 
 said daughters, all my household furniture to be by them equally divided at the expiration of six weeks after my 
 decease. 
 
 Item. Whereas, my Saw Mill, lately built, stands on the division line between the farms herein devised to my 
 sons Stephen and Jacob Pruyn, it is my will and I hereby order and direct that the said Saw MiU, Dams and Water 
 privileges, shall belong jointly to Stephen and Jacob Pruyn, and that my said son John shall have an equal share in 
 said mill to saw so much stuff for the use of his farm as he may need for and during his natural life. Each one to 
 pay an equal proportion to keep the same in repair. 
 
 Item, And lastly, all the rest, residue and remainder of all my property, both real and personal, after the 
 
 aforesaid legacies be duly satisfied and paid, and not herein before particularly willed and disposed of, I give, devise 
 
 and bequeath to all my six sons herein before named, and to their heirs to be by them equally divided share and share 
 
 alike, and I do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint my daughter, Ann Maria, Executrix, and my son, John E. Van 
 
 Alen, and my son-in-law, Cornelius C. Van Reypen. Executors to this my last Will and Testament, hereby utterly 
 
 revoking, disannulling and making void all other and former wills and legacies by me made. In witness whereof, I 
 
 have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty-seventh day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight 
 
 hundred and fifty three. 
 
 EVERT VAN ALEN (x) 
 
 Signed, sealed, published and declared by the 
 above named Evert Van Alen to be his Last will and 
 testament in the presence of us who have hereunto 
 subscribed our names as witnesses at his request in 
 the presence of the testator and in the presence of 
 each other. 
 
 O. E. Lansing, Town of Green Bush. 
 
 Abram Witbeck, Town of Green Bush, Rens, Co. 
 
 NOTE :— The courts of justice were filled with controversies about disputed boundaries, hence the accurate description whicli Evert 
 Van Alen employed in his last will in making the distribution of his farm lands. 
 
 Among a collection of letters written by Evert Van Alen to his wife The following 
 has been selected for ptiblication, not alone as an evidence of the pure love and esteem he 
 held for her — but by reason of the peculiar historical interest it bears to the compiler of 
 this publication. 
 
 Rev. B. C. Taylor, in early ministerial life, (1822 to 1825) was Pastor of the Dutch 
 Reformed Church, at Blooming Grove, and while there not only endeared himself to the 
 entire Van Alen family, but cemented friendships which endured until dissolved by death. 
 
 At time of writing this letter, Mrs Van Alen was visiting at Dominie Taylor's, in 
 Bergen, N. J., his daughter Mary, was then a child only eleven months old — while Mrs. 
 Van Alen's son, Jacob Pruyn, was but four years of age — these children in later years 
 married, and became the parents of B. T. Van Alen. 
 
 Saturday, September, 12th, 1829. 
 Mv Dear: — 
 
 You cannot conceive with what pleasure and gratification the letter I have this moment received from your son, 
 the Rev. B. C. T. It was about 5 o'clock P. M. Mrs. Pruyn was equally anxious to hear from you; she was just 
 preparing to go home, and will return again tomorrow evening. All goes on regular as usual. We have had no rain 
 as yet and the earth is very dry; the children talk much about you and all feel happy to hear that your health is im- 
 proving, and in that case we all feel willing to have you remain until it is restored Will not Mr. and Mrs. Taylor 
 get tired of keeping two mothers to nurse, and how then would it be if the old man whom you talk and think about 
 every evening was also unexpectedly to land on the Jersey shore, and I will assure you that he and your darling talk 
 and think as much about you. I am pleased to see by the letter that you are travelling through the Jerseys visiting 
 your friends, but you say nothing about Philadelphia. I should like to have you go there also, this however I leave 
 to your choice consult your own feelings and inclinations; relieve your mind about the concerns of home and take all 
 the comfort and enjoyment of this visit you can, as I have full confidence in the friendship of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor 
 together with many other friends to make your stay agreeable, and when you conclude to return home I hope you will 
 write me in season that I may have the pleasure to come down and meet you at such time and place as you may appoint, 
 that I may come down one day and return with you the next, as Court is yet sitting in Albany; I think I shall have to 
 tend occasionally all next week. I am home every night and the business of the house is well attended, it is all well 
 cleaned. 
 
I was at Albany to-day. Mr. Velie is very unwell, rather worse. Mrs. Velie is going down with him to-morrow 
 afternoon or early on Monday morning, by whom I send this letter, as I will go to meeting to-morrow afternoon at 
 Albany and see them before they start. 
 
 I went to Mr. Pruyn's on Saturday last, found him and his youngest child very sick with the Fever and Ague, 
 they are very weak. Mrs. P. has also had it but is better. I staid there all night and breakfasted at Elizabeth's next 
 morning; found them all well and then returned home and attended an afternoon meeting. William went with'me. 
 The woman I went after cannot be had, the information you had about her was all a mistake. Sail is now with Jake 
 and willing to come when you return. 
 
 Remember me affectionately to Mr. and Mrs. Taylor; tell them if I do not come to see them it will be your fault 
 and not mine. 
 
 The children all join me in lo\'e to you, and 1 remain, 
 
 Vour aflectionate Husband. 
 
 I^\"KRT Van .\len. 
 
 THK FOUR DAUGHTERS OF EVERT VAN ALEN 
 Reproduced from an old daguereotype. taken about the year 1S34 
 
 i \>KNI-:[,I A 
 
 .\nn M \ri n 
 
 Klizai^kmi 
 26 
 
 t H KISTINA 
 
The children born to Evert and Dericka Van Alan, were twelve (12) in number, as 
 follows: 
 
 I 
 
 John Evert. 
 
 
 7- 
 
 Christina. 
 
 2 
 
 Ann Maria. 
 
 
 8. 
 
 William Knickerbocker. 
 
 3 
 
 Elizabeth Magdalen. 
 
 9- 
 
 Stephen Van Rensellaer. 
 
 4 
 
 John E. 
 
 
 10. 
 
 Cornelia. 
 
 5 
 
 Abraham E. 
 
 
 1 1. 
 
 Benjamin Taylor. 
 
 6 
 
 Herman. 
 
 
 12. 
 
 Jacob Pniyn. 
 
 John Evert Van Alen. 
 Born in the year 1802 
 
 Died in infancy. 
 
 2. Ann Maria Van Alen. 
 
 Born at Blooming Grove, November 
 30, 1804. Died May 26, 1896. 
 
 She was a woman small in figure, of deli- 
 cate outline, exceptionally energetic, and possess- 
 ing every quality that goes to make the perfect 
 woman. Born in the village in which she died, and 
 never having married, she became in early life the 
 nestor of the family. How well and conscientiously 
 she performed that duty, the lives of her brothers 
 and sisters can truly testify. 
 
 A member of the Dutch Reformed Church for 
 more than seventy years, and always prominent in 
 all church life and activity, no church gathering 
 being considered complete without the presence of 
 "Aunt Ann." 
 
 She remained an inmate and head of the old 
 homestead until May, 1891, when by reason of 
 advanced age and declining strength, she was given 
 a home with her nephew, Herman Van Alen, and 
 there tenderly cared for by him and his wife 
 until the time of her death. 
 
 ^ A ^L ^e,x^ 
 
 3- Elizabeth Magdalen Van Alen 
 
 Born at Blooming Grove, September 15, 1807. Died October 16, 1877. 
 
 Married December 8, 1828, to William Van Veghten. of Schaghticoke, Rensellaer 
 County, New York, where her husband owned a large farm of exceedingly fertile soil, and 
 possessing a very beautiful landscape. She resided in that I3utch Village during her entire 
 married life. 
 
 To her, "Home was a world of strife shut out, a world of love shut in;" hence their 
 married life was a truly happy one, due not alone to an indulgent husband, but largely to 
 the influence of her nature in gracefully dignifying and elevating the individual; sincerity 
 and unselfishness being well depicted upon her face, and influencing her entire life. 
 
 Deria E , their only child, was born December 9, 1829, died January 25, 1888. She 
 married Noyes Reynolds October 12, 1850. One child, William Van Veghten Reynolds, was born 
 to them on July 21, 1851; he married Mrs. Estella G. Ivnight, January 9, 1895. Attended 
 college in New York City, graduated from Columbia College Law School, and died 
 January 7, 1897. 
 
4- John E. Van Alen. 
 
 Born at Blooming Grove, January 8, 
 iSio, Died May 26, 1872. 
 
 Married Mary Ann Sanders, December 27, 1835; 
 the ceremon}' being performed by Dominie Boyd. 
 She was born October i, iSig.and died June 18, 1863. 
 
 His entire life was passed in the "old home" in 
 which he was born and inherited at death of his father. 
 
 Improvements in agriculture, turnpike roads, 
 etc., found in him a steady promoter and advocate. 
 He pursued the vocation of a farmer and displayed 
 an untiring energy in that industry until his death. 
 
 In 1848 was elected Justice of the Peace for 
 the Town of Greenbush, and this is the only 
 record found indicating his having held public office. 
 
 Their children were Ann Maria, Herman and 
 Evert. 
 
 Ann Maria — Born at Blooming Grove, May 7, 1837. 
 Died August 22, 1837. 
 
 Herman — Born at Blooming Grove, May 16, 1840. 
 Married Martha M. Van Alen, November 19, 
 f8^73 ■IStS: No children were born of this union. 
 
 His residence is nearly opposite the "old home," where shortly after marriage he built 
 the house which he has since continuously occupied. 
 
 Is a man simple in his habits of life, of plain words, and whose attitude under an unjust 
 aspersion quickly displays the sturdy heredity of 
 his Dutch ancestry. Fearless m denunciation of 
 injustice, yet to those who understand his disposi- 
 tion, it shows a vein of almost feminine gentleness. 
 Is well and favorably known throughout Rensellaer 
 and Albany Counties. Has held several public 
 of^ces, and from the old "Rock Hill," quarried 
 the stone used in construction of the piers of the 
 great railroad bridge crossing the Hudson River 
 at Albany. 
 
 PU^^^ Cr 
 
 y 'V^^K. ^^2yCi*^ 
 
 Evert — Born at Blooming Grove, August 17, 
 Married Josephine West, Sept. 15, 1886. 
 
 1845- 
 
 Their children are 
 
 , Bertha -Born Octoiier 10, 1890. 
 ( Walter -Born May 18, 1897. 
 
 He resided from the time of his birth in the 
 Van Alen homestead, which in later years he in- 
 herited, and where in line with an ancestral influence 
 he pursued the life of a farmer until April 1900, 
 when he disposed by sale, of the home and forty-five 
 (45) acres of land remaining, and removed with his 
 family to Albany, thereby severing all the ancestral 
 and tender ties that had been reverenced by the 
 Van Alen family in that home, for about I 20 years. 
 
 eA/yy^'<P>^^*^ 
 
 ^^ /^^x^*^ 
 
In this connection, it seems tittinj^ to record that bj' the activity of Mrs. Herman Van 
 Alen, assisted by the Ladies' AuxiHary of the Dutch Reformed Church of DeFreestville, a 
 lease of the house was obtained from the new owner, the identity of the homestead retained 
 by naming it "Colonial Hall." and making the ancient edifice do service in local church and 
 social events. 
 
 j24^^^ 
 
 WALTER VAN ALEN 
 
 KVKRT V.\N .M-EN 
 
 i- 
 
 "^xim^i^'im^ 
 
 5. Abraham E. Van .^len. 
 
 Born Ht Blooming Grove, Dec. 27, 
 iSii. Died June 28, 1S99. 
 
 Married Maria Schermerhorn, March 27, 1834. 
 
 Their children were Mary, Jacob S., and 
 Martha M. 
 
 His wife died December 2, 1876, and on 
 May 17, 1882, he married Louise Blanchard, who 
 survived hini. 
 
 At time of his first marriage, he settled upon a 
 farm on the Post Road, and there reared his family, 
 moving in later years to the "old Schermerhorn 
 farm," a half mile to the north. 
 
 He was a man bronzed, hardy, and rugged, 
 and who applied himself closely to the culture of 
 his farm. 
 
 "Some people grow old from the inside out, 
 and some from the outside in." 
 
 "There's old furniture, and there's growing 
 trees. He has truly been the latter." 
 
Mary — Born at Blooming Grove, March 28, 1836. 
 
 Married Alden T. Foster, Feb. 19, 1862. 
 
 They estabHshed and built their residence 
 upon a plat of ground nearly opposite the old 
 Van Alen home, and here their only child, 
 Minnie C. was born June 3, 1864. 
 
 She married Christian S. Engle, June 6. 
 1894, and moved to Norwalk, Ohio, where her 
 husband engaged in the Piano Manufacturing 
 business. Of this union, their only child, 
 Marian Louise Engie, was bom March 28, 1895. 
 
 In the year 1897, this family moved to San 
 Francisco, California, where Mr. Engle opened 
 a large Musical Instrument business, and in 
 which citv they have since resided. 
 
 In the year 1901, upon the occasion of the 
 launching of the U. S. Battleship, Ohio, at San 
 Francisco, a pretty episode of the affair was 
 the act of this little transplanted Ohio girl, 
 Marian Louise Engle (the then only representa- 
 tive of the tenth generation of the Van Alen 
 family), clad in a flower bedecked gown, and 
 scattering roses as the guests, with William 
 McKinley, President of the United States, in 
 the lead, assembled in the reception hall. 
 
 /y^./^a^ ^iJr^^ 
 
 Marian Louise Enple 
 
 Jacobs. — Born at Blooming Grove, December 3, 1839. 
 Died, December 31, 1893. 
 Married Mary Wild. of Albany,N. Y., April26, 1870. 
 
 1 Lillian M. 
 Their children were-, Harrison D. 
 ' Charles IC. 
 
 He pursued the vocation of carpenter and 
 painter; Moved to Iowa City, Iowa, where he 
 resided for nine years, and then returned to his 
 native place, where he died. 
 
 Lillian M. — Born April 26, 1875. Died February 4, 1896. 
 Was a person of quiet, modest and sweet dispo- 
 sitioiL An earnest Christian worker, and a blessing 
 antl comfort to her mother and brothers. She taught 
 district school for two years, and her close application 
 to this work coupled with an an.xiety for her widowed 
 iiiotiier, hastened her demise. 
 
Harrison I). — Born November 26, 1876. 
 
 Married Mary Frances Van Valkenburgh, 
 November 3, 1898, and resides in the City of 
 Albany, where he maintains a lucrative Wall Paper 
 and Decorating business. 
 
 Their only child, Sarah Abigal, was born 
 August 13, 1902. 
 
 I haiies E. — Born June 28, 1880. 
 
 Married Alida C. Bult, of Albany, June 
 25, 1902, and resides in that city, where he is 
 engaged in business with his brother, f-Iarrison. 
 
 Martha M. — Born in Blooming Grove, February 
 12, 1844. 
 
 Married Herman Van Alen, November 19, 1873. 
 She has continuously resided m the village in 
 which she was born. 
 
 Her physical condition has never been robust, 
 yet by her words and acts, and ever generous hos- 
 pitality, has given to her kindred and many friends not only pleasure in her society, but has 
 labored in the church, and blessed her h(jnie with love. 
 
 H.VKKISON D. V.\N ALEN 
 
 6. Herman Van Alen 
 
 Born at Blooming Grove, January 19, 1814. Died September 10, 1837. 
 
 He resided continuously at the Van Alen home in which he was born — and where he 
 died — and did not marry. 
 
 He gave marked attention to the culture of fruit and to his efforts can be largely 
 attributed the growth and development of the fine orchards of apples, plums and pears which 
 future generations so greatly enjoyed when visiting the "old home." 
 
 7. Christina Van Alen. 
 
 Born at Blooming Grove, January i, 1816. Died November i, 1883. 
 
 Was married August 27, 1835, to Cornelius C. Van Reypen, of Bergen, N. J., (Jersey 
 City), whose ancestors came from Ripen, in North Jutland, Holland, in 1663, in the ship 
 "Spotted Cow." 
 
 Si.x children were born of this union — Catherine, Herman Van Alen, William Knick- 
 erbocker, Alletta, Anna Deria and Cornelius. 
 
 She was a woman graceful in carriage, quiet in demeanor, possessing practical ability, 
 untiring in her labors in the home, and one whom God endowed with the peculiar skill and 
 grace of bestowing comfort, and whose lovely Christian character influenced those surrounding 
 her and endeared all toward her. 
 
 She united with the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of Bergen, N. J., by certificate, 
 in the year 1836. her husband uniting at the same time upon profession of his faith, and 
 from thenceforward they both were found actively engaged in christianizing work until death 
 removed them hence. 
 
Catherine — Born at Bergen, N. J., June 23, 1836. 
 
 Married Albert Z. Bogert, of Hackensack, N. J., October 24, 1867. Has lived con- 
 tinuously in that city since her marriage, and displayed a deep and lively interest in what- 
 ever is calculated to improve the comforts and environments of her home, the church, and 
 her social life. 
 
 Seven children have been born to them, as follows: 
 
 Frances — Born October i, 1868. 
 
 Who upon graduation from High School engaged in teaching, and has proven herself 
 very successful in that vocation. 
 
 Hmma Louise — Born February 28, 1870. 
 
 Upon completion of a classical education, her tender nature and a desire to alleviate 
 suffering and bestow comfort to humanity lead to her entrance into the ranks of the 
 professional nurse, where she has become eminently successful. 
 
 William — Born May i, 1871. Died at si.x years of age. 
 
 Catherine ,\lletta — Born June 24, 1 873. Died at two years of age. 
 
 .\lberta — Born October 12, 1875 Married William Schuyler Hopper, June 4, 1902. 
 
 Cornelius V. R. — Born February 17, 1879. 
 
 Mary Leila — Born August 2, I 88 1. 
 
 Herman V. A. — Born at Bergen, N. J., November 2, 183S. Died June 1, 1S55. 
 
 William Knickerbocker — Born at Bergen, 
 
 N J . November 14, 1840. 
 
 Married Nellie C. Wells, Sept. 21, 1876. 
 Their children are: 
 
 Alletta Loui.se— Born December 1 9, 1877. 
 
 William Knickerbocker — Born May 7, I 883. 
 
 He attended public and private schools in 
 Bergen, and at the age of fourteen entered 
 the sophomore class at the University of New 
 York, from which institution he graduated in 
 1858 Soon after graduation commenced the 
 study of medicine at the University Medical 
 College of New York, and became a private 
 student of Dr. Alfred C. Post, the then Pro- 
 fessor of Surgery at the college. In his 
 second year received the prize lor anatomical 
 preparation and for the best clinical record. 
 He was also appointed Junior Interne at the 
 New York Hospital. 
 
 In April, 1861, while j-et a medical stu- 
 dent, was appointed Assistant Surgeon of the 
 2nd New Jersey Militia, and served with that 
 Regiment during the War of the Rebellion 
 until it was mustered out in August, 1861. 
 
In December, 1861, before graduation, entered the Navy as Assistant Surgeon in the 
 regular service. Graduated in medicine in the Spring of 1862, and in 1864 received the 
 degree of A. M from the New York University. 
 
 In March, [862, was assigned to duty at the Naval Hospital, New York, where he 
 remained until September of that year, when he was ordered to Key West in charge of the 
 Marine Hospital at that place. The Hospital was then being used by the Navy as a yellow 
 fever Hospital. At the time of his arrival there were fifty-six cases awaiting his professional 
 attention, the medical officer in charge having just died. In ten days he was attacked by 
 the fever, from which he had a slow recovery. Remained on duty at the Hospital until 
 December, 1864, passing through another' severe eipdemic of yellow fever during the 
 latter year. 
 
 Was promoted to Passed Assistant Surgeon in 1865, to Surgeon in 1868, to Medical 
 Inspector in 1887, to Medical Director in 1895, and appointed Surgeon General of the Navy 
 in October, 1897, being reappointed in 1901, and voluntarily retired after more than forty 
 years service, with the rank of Senior Rear Admiral on January 25, 1902 
 
 During his naval career he served in every squadron, was Fleet Surgeon of the Pacific, 
 North Atlantic, and squadron of Naval Review, and on duty at many of the Naval Hospitals. 
 Was sent by the department as a delegate to the International Medical Congress at Moscow, 
 in 1897, and read a paper on "The Care of Wounded in Naval Engagements," presenting a 
 plan of an ambulance ship that he had devised. Soon after his appointment as Surgeon 
 General, war with Spain commenced, and he designed and fitted out the ambulance ship 
 Solace, which vessel was the first vessel of her kind of any Nation. Her service during the 
 Spanish war has become historical. Following his retirement he was appointed a Red Cross 
 delegate to represent the government at the Red Cross Conference in St. Petersburg, in 
 
 May, IK^02. 
 
 Is a member of the Holland Society of New York, Ex-Senior Vice Commander of the 
 District of Columbia Cominandery, Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, 
 The Sons of the American Revolution, the Geographic Society, the University Club of New 
 York, an honorary life member of the Carlton Club of Brooklyn, the Chevy Chase Club, 
 President of the Washington Whist Club, and Vice President of the Metropolitan Club of 
 Washington. 
 
 Alletta — Born at Bergen, N. J., May 31, 1844. Died September 26, 1874. 
 
 Married Edward P. Buffett, M. D., of Jersey City, N. J., June 12, 1873. One child, 
 Kdward Payson, Buffett, Jr.. was born of this union, on September 14, 1874. 
 
 She was a woman, tactful, interesting and sympathetic; her cultivated mind and 
 cheerful thoughts dominating her daily living, whose ministerings to humanity were not 
 merely generous but unselfish, and whose unmistakable purity of soul and mind tended daily 
 to uplift and strengthen the lives of all her associates. 
 
 Anna Deria — Born at Bergen, N. J., April 24, 1847. 
 
 Married Philip Kip Green, of Jersey City, N. J., January i, 1884. 
 
 She has been a continuous inmate of the Van Reypen home since time of her birth, 
 and upon the demise of her mother, assumed the care and entire management. In this 
 charge she cheerfully displayed her qualities as conserver, maintained the traditions of the 
 Dutch race so well typified in her nature, and while tenderly ministering to the needs of 
 her aged father, made the home more of interest to relatives and others, rather than to 
 herself. 
 
 Cornelius C, Jr. — Born at Bergen, N. J., March 10, 1852. Died February 28, 1883. 
 
 Married Kate Parker, of Jersey City, N. J., October 22, 1879, and she survived him. 
 LofC. i... 
 
,#^^--^. 
 
 8. William Knickerbocker V'an Alen — 
 
 liorn at Blooming; Grove, N. Y., 
 
 January 20, iSi 8. 
 Died at San Francisco Jan. 19, 1903. 
 
 Married Emma L. Van Wyck, of Fish- 
 kill, N. Y., October 10, 1844. One daughter, 
 ILinnah Louise, was born of this union. 
 
 Is a man of sterling integrity, and poss- 
 essing an outward charm of character that all 
 could advantageously strive to attain, and 
 whose "lend a hand" has quietly done so 
 much for his own blood. Is an early riser, 
 and in the development of his purified life has 
 never displayed any weariness, attributing his 
 robust health to abstemeous habits of life, and 
 keeping his mind and body suitably employed. 
 
 Soon after marriage he embarked in the 
 Dry Goods business on Greenwich St., New 
 York, and successfully maintained it until the 
 gold fever of 1849 allured him to the Pacific 
 Coast. 
 
 His love for wife and child alone caused a hesitancy in departing for the western 
 eldorado, but the devotion of that loving and faithfuj wife, and the encouragement she 
 extended to him, resulted in the decision to go. Arriving in San Francisco in October, 1849, 
 after a long trip via the Isthmus of Panama, he there embarked in Mercantile pursuits, 
 bought and sold Real Estate, represented one of the great Life Insurance Companies of 
 New York City, and by close application to business soon won the esteem and confidence of 
 all who associated with him. 
 
 Few men can look back to 1849 and say as he has often been heard to exclaim: "My 
 whole life in California has been a pleasure to me." 
 
 He holds implicit faith in the future prosperity and development of California, is a man 
 whom all Californians know and trust, and whom mothers and children love. His range of 
 life has been simple, yet effective, California being to him a perfect haven of rest and 
 comfort. 
 
 He loves to walk up and down the hills of San Francisco, seemingly never tiring. 
 Anyone fortunate enough to be his companion upon one of these walks, would thoroughly 
 enjoy listening to the reminiscences which his long residence in that city enable him to 
 give voice to. 
 
 Was twice elected Supervisor of San Francisco and several times declined the 
 nomination for a seat in the Legislature of his State, holds memberahip in The Holland 
 Society of New York, and Society of California Pioneers of San Francisco, and is a regular 
 visitor to the reading rooms of the last named Society 
 
 A California estimate of him is best learned by the perusal of the following, taken from 
 
 "Contemporary Biography of California's Representative Men," 
 
 Published by 
 
 .\. L. BANCROFT & CO. 
 
 San Francisco, Cal. 
 
WILLIAM KNICKERBOCKER VAN ALEN. 
 
 Mr. Van Alen, a lineal descendant of John Knickerbocker, of Schaghticoke, of the State of New York, was born 
 in the town of Greenbush. Rensselaer County, January 20, 1818. An admirable but brief account of this historical 
 family was published in Harper's Magazine, of New York, for December, 1876. It was accompanied by fine engrav- 
 ings of Mr. Van Alen's maternal grandparents, together with the picture of the family mansion constructed over two 
 centuries ago, and which is still standing and bids fair to survive the last of the race. 
 
 Like other pioneers, the subject of this memoir has helped to shape the destiny of the great Slate of California, 
 and filled many offices with credit to himself and profit to the community. Faithful to the interests of San Francisco, 
 he has helped also to build up her waste places, and contributed by well-conceived improvements to her glory and 
 renown- He has watched this great city grow acorn-like into a far-spreading oak, its roots well set, and its branches 
 giving shelter to all nationalities. 
 
 Arriving in San Francisco, in October, .1849, Mr. Van Alen has been a constant resident and shared in all its 
 vicissitudes, its rise and progress, its bright and its cloudy days. 
 
 The Knickerbockers, the Van Rensselaer*, the Livingstones, and other great families of the State of New York, 
 have given their names to immortality upon every wind that blows. 
 
 Under the generic name of Knickerbockers are accepted all the descendants of the old families of his native 
 State; and in whatever country or condition of life, stationary or moving, they may be traced, they are found full of 
 honor, trust, manliness, and fighting the battles of life with courage and dignity. To write the history of one of 
 these great families, is to write the history of all. Its men have always been foremost in the field and in the forum, 
 knowing how to live and how to die; its women models of purity, gracefulness, dignity, and elevated sentiment. 
 
 His wife died at Sorrento, Italy, in 1870, while upon a European tour with his daughter. 
 Her remains were brought to this country and interred in the Van Wyck family burial plot 
 at Fishkill Landing, Dutchess County, N. Y. 
 
 Hannah Louise, his only child, was born in New York, October 30, 1847. 
 Died on the Island of Ischia, Italy, August 7, 1883. 
 She was a long sufferer from inflammatory rheumatism, and for several years had 
 travelled in Europe in search of health. While sojourning at the Hotel Pacollo-Santinella, 
 at Ischia, an island in the Bay of Naples, Italy, trying there the efficiency of the mud baths, 
 on Saturday evening, July 28, 1S83, a terrible earthquake occurred, which so seriously 
 injured her, that death relieved her sufferings after a lapse of ten days. 
 
 Her remains were brought to Bergen, 
 N. J., (Jersey City) where funeral services 
 were held at the residence of her uncle, 
 C. C. Van Reypen, and from thence 
 were taken to Fishkill. N. Y., and 
 interred beside her mother. 
 
 9. Stephen Van Rensellaer Van Alen 
 Born at Blooming Grove, April 
 14, 1820. 
 Married Hester Ann DeGraef, Decem- 
 ber i, 1S74. She died January 12, 1893. 
 Alexander Pope's "Ode on Solitude" 
 seems appropriately to describe his life 
 in the following verses: 
 
 Happy the man whose wish and care 
 A few paternal acres bound. 
 
 Content to breathe his native air 
 In his own ground: 
 
 Whose herds with milk, whose fields with bread. 
 Whose flocks supply him with attire; 
 
 Whose trees in summer yield him shade. 
 In winter fire; 
 
 p^/Ut^A^ ^"^.^ ..j^i^ 
 
 Blest, who can unconcern'dly find 
 
 Hours, days, and year^. slide soft away; 
 
 In health of body, peace of mind, 
 Quiet by day: 
 
Their children, all born at DeFreestville, were 
 
 Cora De Graef — Born March 13, 1876 — Died March 21, 1894. 
 
 Elizabeth Van Veghten — Born December 30, 1878. 
 
 Married Arthur Lape, a farmer of De F"reestville, March 16, 1898. Their children 
 i Harvey A. — Born September 13, 1900. 
 I Jennie E. — Born November 30, 1901 — Died September 26, 1902. 
 
 (On pane 8 this name is erroneously recorded as Gertrude G.) 
 
 and Catherine Colton— Born January 18, 1880. 
 
 who resides at the home on "Rock Hill," where she lovingly displays fidelity to her 
 aged father in the care of him and the home. 
 
 10. Cornelia Van Alen 
 
 Born at Blooming Grove, March 19, 1822. Died October 4, 1880. 
 
 Married John I. Van Home, of Bergen, N. J., (Jersey City) November 2, 1843. 
 
 Their children were — Catherine, Stephen Van Alen and Frank. Her husband was a 
 descendant of the old Dutch family of that name, whose ancestors had settled at Commu- 
 nipaw (Jersey City) in the 16th Century. In this Dutch environment they commenced 
 their married life, he engaging in farming and the raising of vegetables for the New York 
 markets, and here all their children were born. 
 
 She was a woman of marked personality, and with the death of her husband in 1865, 
 began a solitary journey of life which was alone made cheerful by the children and grand- 
 children in whom were centered her entire affection, and whose spiritual and physical 
 welfare was her daily concern and comfort. Her nature was one of sweetness and sim- 
 plicity, coupled with a strength of character that enabled her to courageously meet the daily 
 trials incident to human life. 
 
 Catherine — Born at Bergen, N. J., September 2, 1844. 
 
 Married Abram \V. Colton, of Toledo, Ohio, April 17, 1867, and removed to that city, 
 where she has since resided. 
 
 She is one whose kind words have gone far in dispelling gloom in others, and whose 
 sympathy has proven a true boon to humanity. To her, "life is real," and a brightness and 
 joy abides in that life that gives a power of enjoyment and cheerful thought to her cultivated 
 mind, and keeps her vigor ever fresh. Two children were born of this union: — 
 
 Cornelia— at Toledo, Ohio, July 28, 1871. 
 
 Married E. G. Hollister, December 12, 1899, and resides in Toledo. 
 
 Olive Almira — at Toledo, September 2, 1873. 
 
 Stephen Van Alen —Born at Bergen, N. J., March 4, 1856. 
 
 Resides in New York City, where for many years he has been connected with the 
 Freight Department of one of the great Trunk Railways. Is a member of The Holland 
 Society of New York. 
 
 Frank— Born at Bergen, N. J., November 9, 1858— Died at Bergen, N. J , March 20, 1869. 
 
 30 
 
II. Benjamin Taylor Van Alen. 
 
 Born at Blooming Grove, N. Y., April 28, 1824. Died November 12, 1870. 
 
 In the year 185 i he married Grace Lines, who was born in England, and resided at 
 Poughkeepsie, N. Y. She afterwards married William Wheeler, and died November 
 19, 1872. 
 
 He was engaged in the Retail Dry Goods business in New York until September 6, 
 1 86 1, when at the call of his country he enlisted as a Corporal in Company I, (Captain 
 G. C. Morton) Ira Harris Guards, 5th New York Volunteer Calvary, and was mustered out 
 of service October 23, 1864, at Dismounted Camp, Pleasant Valley, Maryland, by reason of 
 expiration of term of service. 
 
 His regiment was attached to General Judson Kilpatrick's Calvary Brigade, 5th Army 
 Corps, Army of the Potomac, and actively participated in the entire Virginia campaign. In 
 May, 1862, at Fairfa.x, C. H., they charged and defeated Mosby's command, were engaged 
 in battles of Martinsburg, Harper's Ferry, Spottsylvania, Gamesville, Cold Harbor and 
 Wilderness. In January, 1863, by reason of casualties, Company I was reduced to forty- 
 eight men, and at the time of mustering out, only si.xteen answered roll call. Records show 
 that in every engagement they distinguished themselves, and were frequently praised in 
 orders for gallantry in action. 
 
 One son, Jacob, was born of this union, on 
 April 23, 1852. Died July 22, 1897, and his 
 remains were interred at Cold Spring, Putnam 
 County. N. Y. 
 
 His demise was sudden and accidental, having 
 been struck by a train on the L. I. R. R. when 
 returning home from a sail in his yacht, on Jamaica 
 Bay. 
 
 He was an energetic, successful businessman, 
 and an active salesman. In 1886 he organized the 
 New York Stove Works, at Peekskill, N. Y., of 
 which corporation he was Secretary, and they 
 enjoyed a very successful business. 
 
 Married Eleda Squire, September 4, 1881, 
 and two children were born unto them: 
 
 William— at Williamsburg, N. Y., j^pfft - 10, 
 1882. 
 
 Eleda— at Williamsburg, N. Y., November 
 9. 1885. 
 
 His widow, on February 5, 1899, married 
 M. H. Christopher, of Brooklyn, N, Y., in which 
 city she now resides. 
 
^^. 
 
 '^i^f*^^ 
 
 ^^- 
 
 12. Jacob Pruyn. 
 
 Rorn at Blooming Grove, N. Y., 
 June 30, 1825. Died at Bergen, N. J., (Jersey 
 City) March 13, 1867. 
 
 Married Mary Gazzam Taylor, daughter of 
 Rev. Benjamin C. and Anna Romejn Taylor, at 
 Bergen, N. J., October 18, 1848. 
 
 She was born at Bergen, N. J., October 18, 
 1828, and died at Chicago, 111., April 14, 1893, 
 at the residence of her son, B. T. Van Alen, 
 with whom she made her home after the death 
 of her father in 1881. 
 
 Her remains were taken to Jersey City, and 
 there interred in the old burial ground of the 
 Bergen Dutch Reformed Church and placed 
 beside her husband and the infant children they 
 had in previous years consigned to mother earth. 
 Of this union there were born to them 
 eight children. 
 
 Benjamin Taylor Jacob Pruyn 
 
 Anna Romeyn William Taylor 
 
 Charles Pruyn Evert 
 
 Jacob Pruyn Mary Elizabeth 
 
 He was given a common school education, 
 y^^>»* /'^:i^^^i^ (^ and assisted his father in surveying and engineer- 
 ing work. A bill for his tuition is reproduced 
 herewith; 
 
 / 
 
 
 
 
 .^l {/OM ^^^^^^"^^ 
 
 -C 
 
After marriage he settled upon a farm on the Albany and New York post road, and 
 adjoining the farm of his brother, Abraham E., where he remained until the year 1858 and 
 then moved with his family to Bergen, N. J., and engaged in the produce business in 
 New York. City. 
 
 Benjamin Taylor — Born at De Freestville, N. Y., 
 July 29, 1849. 
 
 Married Fannie More, of Jersey City, N. J., 
 December 18, 1873, the ceremony being performed 
 by his grandfather, Rev. Benjamin C. Taylor. 
 
 He attended public and private schools at Ber- 
 gen, N. J., and in 1864 embarked in the wholesale 
 drug business in New York City. Entered the employ 
 of an old and well established firm and remained with 
 them until the year 1886. During this period, he 
 traveled extensively for them, and at the time of 
 severing that connection had attained a high position 
 in their organization. 
 
 He then accepted a position as resident western 
 agent for a large Perfumery Manufacturing firm, 
 moved with his family to Chicago, Illinois, and after 
 representing that firm for over sixteen years, resigned 
 his position with them in December, 1902. 
 
 Has spent much of his married life m business travel covering the entire United States 
 and Dominion of Canada 
 
 In July, 1902, became the western representative of a large Chemical Manufacturing 
 firm located in Mannheim, Germany. 
 
 Is Vice President of the Holland Society of Chicago, member of Illinois Society Sons 
 of the American Revolution, a Director of Chicago Drug Trade Club, President Board of 
 Trustees of the First Presbyterian Church of Lake View, Chicago, and an Honorary Member 
 of Company B, First Infantry Illinois National Guard. 
 
 1 Edna Child. 
 
 Three children have been born of his marriage, namely: ■ Walter Taylor. 
 
 ( Harold Knickerbocker. 
 
 Edna Child— Born at Newark. N. J., April 12, 1875. 
 
 Married E. Allen Frost, an Attorney-at-Law, on April 18, 1899, and resides in Chicago, 
 Illinois. 
 
 BENJAMIN TAYLOR VAN ALEN 
 
 Walter Taylor— Born at Newark, N J., October 5, 1876 
 
 Married Elizabeth Rourke February 13, igoi, at Chicago, Illinois. 
 
 On April 26, 1 898, enlisted with his Regiment, First Infantry N. G., 111., in the service 
 of the United States in the Spanish-American war, serving as Corporal in Company B, 
 was attached to the 3rd Brigade (General Lawton), in 5th Army Corps under Major General 
 Wm. R. Shafter. 
 
 39 
 
WALTER TAYLOR VAN ALEN 
 
 Saw service in the trenches before Santiago de 
 Cuba, and at San Juan and El Caney, witnessed the 
 surrender of Gen'l Torai's Army, and alter forty- 
 seven days service in Cuba returned with his Regiment 
 to Montauk Point, N. Y., and thence to Chicago, 
 where on November 17, 1898, he was honorably 
 discharged from service. * 
 
 Is a member of Illinois Society, Sons of the 
 American Revolution, also the Society of the Army 
 of Santiago, and First Sergeant Company B, First 
 Infantry N. G. Illinois, of which Regiment he has 
 been a member for nine years. 
 
 During a part of the Santiago campaign, the 
 First Ilhnois Volunteers were stationed in trenches 
 immediately adjoining the First U. S. Vol. Cavalry 
 (Rough Riders), commanded by Col. Theodore 
 Roosevelt, and he there met for the first time the 
 present President of the United States. 
 
 A letter written by Col. Roosevelt in 1898, in 
 response to an invitation to visit Chicago as the 
 guest of The Holland Society of that city, is here- 
 with produced: 
 
 (Dictated) 
 
 Oyster Bay, L, I., Oct. 6, 1898. 
 
 B. T. Van Allen, Esq., 
 
 57 Washington St., 
 
 Chicago, 111. 
 My Dear Mr. Van Allen :- 
 
 I would particularly like to cone, but I don't dare 
 promise 30 far in advance. I have no idea what a:'' engagements 
 will be. , . 
 
 Hemember me to Wte*«. «»ir#v^it^^ 
 
 Faithfully vours, 
 
Harold Knickerbocker— Born at Newark, N. J., September 19, 1882. 
 
 Is a member of First Regiment N. G. Illinois, holding commission of Corporal in Co. M. 
 
 Was educated in public schools of Chicago, and in 1900 commenced his business career 
 in a large National Bank at Chicago. 
 
 Anna Romeyn— Born at De Freestville, N, Y., December 3, 1853. 
 
 Married Lou's Guillaudeu, Jr., of Jersey City, N. J., August 22, 1882, at Schaghti- 
 coke, N. Y. 
 
 ( Louis Alen. 
 
 Their children were -] Arthur. 
 
 ( Florence. 
 
 Louis Alen— Born September 30, 1883. Died December 25, 1884. 
 Arthur— Born June 23, 1888 
 
 1 lorence— Born November 16, i8go. Died July 11, 189L 
 
 She is a woman of pronounced generous and unselfish principles. In figure, resembling 
 the women of the previous generation. Never rugged in health, yet always actively 
 engagefl, and whose love of home, of husband and of children has been an inspiration to 
 others everywhere. 
 
 Shortly after marriage they removed to Chicago, where her husband engaged in the 
 Grain Commission business. From Chicago they moved to Britton, So. Dakota, where he 
 embarked in the Banking business, which proved eminently successful until successive failure 
 of crops depopulated that section, when he accepted a position as manager of the Cincinnati 
 branch of a large manufacturing company, and has since successfully conducted that agency. 
 
 They reside in their own home at Madisonville, Ohio, distant only ten miles from his 
 business location. 
 
 Charles Pruyn — Born at De Freestville, N. Y., July 25, 1856. Died August 23, 1856. 
 
 Jacob Pruyn — Born at Bergen, N. J., March 22, 1859. Died July 13, 1859. 
 
 Jacob Pruyn — Born at Bergen, N. J., June 18, i860. Died September 24, i860. 
 
 William Taylor — Born at Bergen, N. J., August 8, 
 1861. 
 
 Married Catherine More, of Newark, N. J., 
 December 13, 1888. 
 
 Their children were ! ^^'™=''" ^'""y- 
 
 t Katherme. 
 
 William Pruyn— Born September 26, 1889. 
 
 Katherine— Born February 18, 1898. 
 
 He has for many years been in the employ of 
 a large Life Insurance Company of New York City, 
 and resides with his family in Newark, N. J. 
 
 Evert — Born at Bergen, N. J., November 6, 1863. 
 Died December 2, 1863. 
 
 Mary Elizabeth — Born at Bergen, N.J. May 6, 1866. 
 Died September 26, 1866. 
 
 WILLIAM T.WLOR V.\N ALKN 
 
Here terminates the record, and the compiler of this publication, in closing the work 
 done in behalf of his kindred, appends herewith a correct list, giving present places of 
 residence of the 
 
 Living Descendants of Evert Van Alen. 
 
 Seventh Generation 
 
 VAN ALEN, STEPHEN V. R. 
 
 De Freest ville, N. Y. 
 
 Eighth Generation 
 
 BOGERT, CATHERINE -.--.- Hackensack. N. J. 
 
 COLTON. CATHERINE -------- Toledo, Ohio 
 
 FOSTER. MARY - San Francisco, Cal. 
 
 GREEN, ANNA D. ------- - Jersey City N. J- 
 
 GUILLAUDEU, ANNA R. ----- - Madisonville, Ohio 
 
 LAPE, ELIZABETH V. V. - - - - - De Freestville, N. V. 
 
 VAN ALEN, BENJAMIN T. ------- Chicago, III. 
 
 VAN ALEN, CATHERINE C. - - - - De Freestville, N. Y. 
 
 VAN ALEN. EVERT -------- Albany, N. Y. 
 
 VAN ALEN, HERMAN ------ De Freestville, N. Y. 
 
 VAN ALEN, MARTHA M. ----- De Freestville, N. V. 
 
 VAN ALEN, WILLIAM T. ------ - Newark. N. J. 
 
 VAN HORNE. STEPHEN V. A. ----- New York. N. Y- 
 
 VAN REYPEN, WILLIAM K. ----- Washington, D. C. 
 
 Ninth Generation 
 
 BOGERT, CORNELIUS V. R. Hackensack, N. J. 
 
 BOGERT, EMMA LOUISE ----- Hackensack, N. J. 
 
 BOGERT. FRANCES ------- Hackensack. N. J. 
 
 BOGERT. MARY LEILA ------ Hackensack. N. J. 
 
 BUFFETT. EDWARD P.. JR. - ' - - - - Jersey City. N. J. 
 
 COLTON, OLIVE ALMIRA ------- Toledo, Ohio 
 
 ENGLE, MINNIE C San Francisco, Cal. 
 
 FROST, EDNA V. A. -------- Chicago, 111. 
 
 GUILLAUDEU, ARTHUR ------ Madisonville, Ohio 
 
 HOLLISTER. CORNELIA ------- Toledo, Ohio 
 
 HOPPER. ALBERTA - Hackensack. N. J. 
 
 LAPE, HARVEY A. ------ - De Freestville. N. Y. 
 
 VAN ALEN, BERTHA -------. Albany, N. Y. 
 
 VAN ALEN, CHARLES E. ------ Albany. N. V. 
 
 VAN ALEN, ELEDA ------- Brooklyn. N. V. 
 
 VAN ALEN, HARRISON D. ----- - Albany, N. Y. 
 
 VAN ALEN, HAROLD K. ------ - Chicago. 111. 
 
 VAN ALEN, KATHERINE ------- Newark, N. J. 
 
 VAN ALEN, WALTER - Albany. N Y 
 
 VAN ALEN, WALTER T, ------ - Chicago. 111. 
 
 VAN ALEN, WILLIAM - - Brooklyn. N. Y. 
 
 VAN ALEN. WILLIAM p. ------ - Newark. N. J 
 
 VAN REYPEN. ALLETTA LOUISE - - - - Washington. D. C. 
 
 VAN REYPEN. WILLIAM K.. JR. - - - - Washington. D. C. 
 
 Tentli Generation 
 
 ENGLE, MARIAN LOUISE - 
 VAN ALEN. SARAH ABIG.-V*I. 
 
 San Francisco. Cal. 
 - Albany. N. Y. 
 
 /: 
 
LIBRARY OF CONGRES'? 
 
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 021 548 351 4 
 
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