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The Holland Society of New York

122 EAST 58th STREET, NEW YORK. N.Y. 10022

President J o h n H. Vander Veer

Advisory Council of Past Presidents:

Bruce S. Cornell Thomas M. Van der Veer Kenneth L. Demarest Gerrit W. Van Schaick Walter E. Hopper Dr. Harold O. Voorhis Julian K. Roosevelt Carl A. Willsey

James E. Quackenbush

Vice Presidents:

New York County Harry A. van Dyke Long Island Adrian T. Bogart, Jr. Dutchess County Clifford A. Crispell, Jr. Ulster County Kenneth E. Hasbrouck Patroons, Albany Henry Bradt Central New York George N . Van Fleet Old Bergen County, N.J Francis A. Goetschius Essex and Morris Counties, N.J Daniel S. Van Riper Central New Jersey Kenne th L. Demares t Connecticut-Westchester Harrold W. deGroff

New England Tweed Roosevelt Mid West J o h n Schermerhorn Potomac George Bogardus Virginia and the Carolinas Howard E. Bartholf

Florida Edward V. Di tmars Flor ida-West Coast Me lwood Van Scoyoc Pacific Coast Paul H . Davis Niagara Frontier Chase Viele South River Wil l iam M. Alrich Georgia H. J o h n Ouderki rk United States Army . Col. William T. Van Atten, Jr., USA (Ret) United States Navy Rear Adm. Blinn Van Mater, Jr. (Ret)

United States Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Ar thur J. Poillon. U S M C United States Air Force Captain Laurence C. Vliet, USAF

Treasurer: Secretary:

J o h n A. Pruyn Rev. Louis O. Springsteen

Domine: Associate Domine:

Rev. Dr. Howard G. Hageman Rev. Louis O. Springsteen

Trustees: Will iam M. Alnch Ar thur R. Smock, Jr. George E. Banta Tweed Roosevelt Frederick W. Bogert James M. Van Buren II Clifford A. Crispell, Jr. Wynan t D . Vanderpool , Jr. Ralph L. DeGroff, Jr. Harry A. van Dyke John O. Delamater Peter Van Dyke Richard C. Deyo Stanley L. Van Rensselaer Wil l iam B. Deyo, Jr. J ames M. Vreeland Huber t T Mandeville J o h n R. Voorhis III Robert D . Nostrand Peter G. Vosburgh

Trustees Emeritus: Wilfred B. Talman Charles A. Van Patten

Editor:

Rev. Dr. Howard G. Hageman

Editorial Committee:

Frederick W. Bogert Wilfred B. Talman Clayton Floagland James M. Von Buren II

David William Voorhees

Burgher Guard Captain: Executive Secretary:

Stephen Wyckoff Mrs . Barbara W. Stankowski

Organized in 1885 to collect and preserve information respecting the settle­ment and early history of the City and State of New York, to perpetuate the memory, foster and promote the principles and virtues of the Dutch ancestors of us members , to maintain a library relating to the Dutch in America, and to prepare papers, essays, books, etc. in regard to the history and genealogy of the Dutch in America.

The Society is principally organized of descendants in the direct male line of residents of the Dutch Colonies in America prior to or during the year 1675. In­quiries respecting the several criteria for membership arc invited.

De Halve Maen. published by the Society, is entered at the post office at New York, N Y Communicat ions to the editor should be directed to the Society's address. 122 East 58th Street. New York, N.Y 10022, telephone (212) PLaza 8-1675.

Copyright © T h e Holland Society of New Yotk 1985.

The Editor's Corner Since this is the first issue of a new publishing year, our

cover depicts de Halve Maen, Henry Hudson's vessel from which we derive our name. The picture, however, is new. By courtesy of the Albany Institute of History and Art, we are using a pencil sketch made by Rex Stewart, a young Albany artist. Mr. Stewart specializes in ship models and in sketches of old sailing vessels. We are glad to be able to in­troduce him to the membership of the Holland Society and to the readership of our magazine.

Our Centennial year has been an exciting one thus far. A report on the January cruise and the March mid-winter gathering will be found in the pages of this issue as well as of several branch gatherings which held special Centennial events. Reports on the Leiby Seminar and the Memorial Church Service in New Brunswick in May will be in the next issue as well as one on the Ulster-Dutchess event. They were all well supported and enthusiastically received.

One of the real tasks before us in this Centennial year is that of maintaining and increasing our membership. As editor, I am somewhat appalled by the number of obituaries which appear in our In Memonam section, sometimes a greater number than we can accommodate in a single issue. I am also impressed by the number of persons whose family names indicate eligibility for the Holland Society who have never heard of us or, if they have, think of us as an exclusive eating club in New York City. A definite outreach program on the part of every member would be the best gift we could give the Holland Society on its 100th birthday.

If I may, I should like to conclude this column on a per­sonal note. I retired as President of New Brunswick Seminary at the end of May and at the end of June I shall be moving to New Baltimore, New York, a charming old village on the Hudson just south of Albany. Since I shall be very near two institutions which have been of great help to this magazine, the Albany Institute of History and Art and the New Netherland Project of the New York State Library, I intend to continue as editor of this publication. Now that I no longer have any administrative duties, I hope that what has had

(continued on page 28)

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IN THIS ISSUE

Colonial Dutch Architecture 1 John Romeyn Brodhead 7 The Dutch Colonial History

in the Netherland Antilles 11 Centennial Celebration Events 14 Sponsors of the Centennial 18 Here and There with Our Members 20

Society Activities 21 In Memoriam 24

Cover: ' 'de Halve Maen, '' colored pencil drawing by Rex Stewart, Albany, N. Y. Photo courtesy of Albany Institute of History and Art.

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HALVE MAEN VOL. LIX • NO. 1 JULY 1985 NEW YORK CITY

Colonial Dutch Architecture by Eric Nooter

1. LOUIS GRUBE (1812-1902), Old Stone Home at Gowanus, Oil on panel, 1846

Over a 200 year period, from the early 17th through the early 19th century, farmhouses were built in Brooklyn that have traditionally been referred to as Dutch. ' 'The Old Dutch Homesteads of Brooklyn" exhibition at the Long Island Historical Society (10/25/84-1/31/85) investigated the degree to which these farmhouses were actually influenced by architecture in the Netherlands.

The first Brooklyn settlers came from different countries in Northern and Western Europe, as well as various regions of the Netherlands, each of which had their own building styles. Evidence of both visual and written sources led us to conclude that no exact replicas of Dutch farmhouses were being built by early Brooklyn settlers. Dutch influence on local architectural forms was certainly strong, especially in

Eric Nooter, a graduate of Leiden University, is a doctoral student at New York University.

the 17th century. But during the 18th and early 19th cen­tury that influence gradually disappeared.

Houses in the Netherlands were often built of brick since both wood and fieldstone were relatively scarce. On western Long Island, wood and fieldstone were more readily available, so it is no wonder that these were frequently used as building materials. From an early date on, however, brick and roof tile factories were present in Brooklyn.

No examples of Brooklyn's 17th century architecture have survived intact. In fact, relatively little is known about houses built prior to c. 1650 because only written references to them have survived. On the other hand, more is known about several structures built in the second half of the 17th century because they were recorded in numerous oil paintings, water-colors, pencil drawings, prints and photographs.

Most of these pictorial sources show only the exteriors of these structures. They date from the 19th and early 20th

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NATHANIEL CURRIER Crayon Studies Old Mansion House, Gowanus Road Lithograph, 1846-1849

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3. FREDERICK W. HALPIN Vechte-Cortelyou House Watercolor on paper, 1863

centuries. Changes had taken place, of course, since the erec­tion of the buildings. When comparing depictions of one house by different artists, it becomes apparent that some of them took more liberty in rendering what they saw than others.

17th century houses in Brooklyn that have been record­ed are the De Hart-Bergen House, the De Sille House and thejan Martense Schenck House. The most often depicted Colonial Dutch House in Brooklyn is the Vechte-Cortelyou House built in 1699 and named after Nicholas Vechte (originally written Claes Arentse Van Vechten) who erected the house and Jacques Cortelyou who purchased it in 1790.

During the 19th century, other names were used for this house, among them, 'The Old Stone House at Gowanus'; Gowanus being a section in Brooklyn. A third name used was 'The Old Iron Nines' after its iron anchors including two nines. This name was sometimes corrupted into 'The Old Iron Mines.'

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The structure was also called 'Washington's Head­quarters,' because Washington could have been housed here during the Battle of Long Island. One 1865 manuscript men­tions proudly: "During the bloody and cruel Battle of Long Island (Aug. 27th 1776) Gen. Sterling with a few soldiers fortified this and kept the Brittisch (sic) at bay for a long time." The 19th century historian Stiles in his history of Brooklyn states that it never served as headquarters for Washington, who was instead based on Manhattan. Never­theless, the Revolutionary War associations help explain why this house was so often depicted in the 19th century and even­tually reconstructed in the 1930s.

Louis Grube's 1846 oil painting (1) is probably the oldest surviving picture of the house. The unusually high-for-its-time, two-and-a-half story portion of the house was built in 1699- The wing was added later as was the small addition at the right, which is an outside bake-oven.

The spout gable in the shape of an upside down funnel,

4. F.W. HALPIN/BECKWITH Cortelyou House, A relic of 1176 Etching, late 19th century

the interlace brickwork and the iron numerals depicting the year of erection were featured frequently in Dutch houses, both in towns and in the country. The Currier lithograph (2) made a few years later, was probably modeled after Grube's painting. Frederick Halpin's watercolor (3) served as model for a later etching (4).

The 1846 watercolor by Parsons (5) shows one of the gables from nearby. Clearly visible are the relief arches above the rectangular windows, seen often in houses in the Netherlands. The numerals '' 1699" formed the ends of iron tie rods, which passed through the brick wall into the wooden framing and helped structurally to support the building.

The long vertical iron wall anchors as pictured on Par­son's later watercolor (6) (the same structure seen from the rear), served the same supporting function. These outside wall anchors were connected with wooden vertical posts that were part of the framework on the inside of the house. The rear, from another angle, is shown in Coughlin's drawing (7). The rear wall, in contrast to the front wall, did not con­tain any windows.

A large lithograph, featuring a carnival scene of the Washington Skating Club in early 1862 (8) shows the Vechte-Cortelyou House amidst other buildings reflecting signs of what was both still an agricultural society and a growing ur­banization. To the left of the Vechte-Cortelyou House one can see a Dutch-style barn with its broad sloping roof. In the background, at the far left, a gambrel roofed house is clearly visible. This house belonged at one time to Adrian Voorhees Cortelyou, a relative of the late 18th century owner of the Vechte-Cortelyou House.

A modern, three-story brick building dominates the center of the picture. A horse-drawn railcar line at the right of the old stone house makes clear that Brooklyn had started to leave behind its rural past in the third quarter of the 19th century.

James Ryder van Brunt's watercolor of the Vechte-Cortelyou House (9) offers an interesting contrast to the scene depicted in the lithograph. Van Brunt's picture was made at about the same time as the print. The gambrel roofed house, shown in the skating lithograph, is also depicted by

mm 5. CHARLES PARSONS (1821-1910) Rear view of Old Iron Nines Watercolor on paper, ca. 1850

Van Brunt in his painting but he apparently decided to edit out all signs of urbanization, presenting instead an idyllic farm scene. Van Brunt, who painted at least two other ver­sions of the Vechte-Cortelyou House, apparently based this watercolor on an 1848 view of the house that appeared in D.T. Valentine's 1858 New York City Manual.

The intricate diamond patterned brickwork in the gable end, which is also indicated by other artists picturing the Vechte-Cortelyou House, is most clearly visible in this water-color by Van Brunt. It is a feature frequently found in the well-to-do 17th century townhouses in the Netherlands. The use of such brickwork in rural Brooklyn suggests that the

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CHARLES PARSONS (1821-1910) View from the road of Old Iron Nines Watercolor with pencil on paper, May 4, 1846

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W.H. COUGHLIN Washington 's Headquarters. Near Go wan us, L.I. Pencil on paper, June 14, 1861

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original owner was particularly eager to impress his neighbors with signs of his wealth.

Van Brunt's painting came to the Long Island Historical Society with a lengthy description, probably written by the artist himself. He wrote that the house was an "elegant struc­ture" and continued: "All the bricks and tiles used were brought from Holland. The timber were (sic) white oak. The fire-places were ornamented with costly tiles. The stone work [was] very thick and lights of glass small (sic). The spacious garden on either side of the road was surrounded by a picket fence."

The picket-fence is clearly visible at a sepia photograph (10) made a few years later, around 1870. The fireplace tiles Van Brunt was referring to, probably had come from Holland; the bricks, on the contrary, were almost certainly locally

made. The timber might have been of white oak; the long beams making up the framework were probably of pine. The wooden shingles, covering the outside walls of the wing and the roofs of both parts of the house were cedar.

Currier's lithograph (2) pictures the wing made of clap­board but that does not agree when compared with the 1870 photograph and the other pictures. Clapboard, though, was used in many houses inhabited by Dutch, especially in the 18th and early 19th century and was also not uncommon in 17th century houses in the shipbuilding area north of Amsterdam.

Currier (2), Halpin (3) and Jones (8) deleted the big win­dow in the lower left side of the front wall. Looking at the photograph we may assume that Grube (1) and Van Brunt (9) were more accurate in this respect.

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8. G.E.JONES Carnival of the Washington Skating Club, Brooklyn, February 1Oth 1862 Lithograph, ca. 1862

9. JAMES RYDER VAN BRUNT (1820-1916) Cortelyou House Watercolor on paper, 1865

10. UNIDENTIFIED PHOTOGRAPHER Vechte-Cortelyou House Sepia photograph, ca. 1870

Henry Stiles wrote in his history of Brooklyn in 1869 that the Vechte-Cortelyou House was still standing, but that "from appearances" it was "destined soon to disappear." ' 'The iron figures on the west gable of this house which gave it its cognomen of the 1699 house, were removed by parties unknown. . . in 1868. The building is now used as a s tab le ; . . . . Ruin, speedy and irremediable, has seized upon this finest specimen of old Brooklyn, which time has left us, and which a little thoughtful cate might have pteserved."

During the late 19th century the Vechte-Cortelyou House served as the clubhouse of Charles Ebbets' Brooklyn Baseball

11. LYMAN ATWATER (1835-1891) Vechte-Cortelyou House Watercolor on paper, 1887

Club, which played at nearby Washington Park Baseball Grounds. The first story was eventually buried by earth, leav­ing only the upper story-and-a-half accessible to view.

An 1887 watercolor by Lyman Atwater (11) gives an im­pression of how the Vechte-Cortelyou House might have ap­peared during the last years before its final complete demoli­tion by 1896. The house had apparently become a ruin. The artist clearly wanted to make a picturesque scene out of it by adding two figures, one carrying a basket, stopping to rest near the ruin. The chimney and one of the windows in the wall had gone but some other features made it still recognizable as the Vechte-Cortelyou House.

Around 1897, the Vechte-Cortelyou House was demolished when the ground around it was being leveled to create city streets. Its power as a symbol of the past seems to have survived, though, for in 1934 the Parks Department constructed a replica of it near present day 5th Avenue and 3rd Street in the Gowanus section of Brooklyn, presumably at the spot where the old house had stood.

The photograph taken in 1940 (12) and picturing the house from the rear shows five big windows and a door. This cannot be correct if one compares this picture with the views by Parsons (6) and Coughlin (7), showing no windows or door at all. The terra cotta roof tiles used in the reconstruct­ing do not appear to have been on the original house. The two round windows at the top of the gable shown in pictures by Halpin (3), Parsons (5), Coughlin (7), Van Brunt (9) and Atwater (11) have not been put in the reconstruction. The added structure, shown at the right side of the photograph is confusing.

The attempt to recreate the Vechte-Cortelyou House has been undermined by the passage of time. Covered with graf­fiti, missing roof tiles and shingles, the house now stands bereft of the farmlands which once surrounded it.

All the pictured works are in the collections of the Long Island Historical Society (soon to be renamed Brooklyn Historical Society) at 128 Pierrepont Street in Brooklyn Heights.

12. STANLEY MIXON Vechte-Cortelyou House

from the southeast Photograph, March 18, 1940

John Romeyn Brodhead by Ronald Howard

BOOKS: The Final Report of John Romeyn Brodhead, Agent of the State of New York (Albany: Printed by E. Mack, 1845);

History of the State of New York, 2 volumes (New York: Harper, 1853, 1871);

Addresses of John Romeyn Brodhead and Gov. Horatio Seymour, Delivered Before the Clinton Hall Association, and Mercantile Library Association,. . . 8th June, 1854 (New York: Geo. F. Nesbitt, 1854);

Commemoration of the Conquest of New Netherland, on its Two Hundredth Anniversary (New York: New York Historical Society, 1864);

The Government of Sir Edmund An dros over New England, in 1688 and1689- Read Before the New York Historical Society, on Tuesday Evening, 4th December, 1866 (Mor-risania, N.Y.: Bradstreet Press, 1867).

OTHER: "An Address Delivered before the New-York Historical Society, at its Fortieth Anniversary," Pro­ceedings of the New-York Historical Society, 2 (1844): 1-107;

"Observations Respecting the Two Ancient Maps of New Netherland Found in the Royal Archives of the Hague," Proceedings of the New- York Historical Society, 3 (1845): 183-192;

Isaack de Rasieres, "New Netherland in 1627," translated by Brodhead, Collections of the New-York Historical Society, second series, 2 (1849): 339-354;

"Memoir on the Early Colonization of New Netherland," Collections of the New-York Historical Society, second series, 2 (1849): 355-366;

"Introduction," in volume 1 of Documents Relative to the Colonial History of the State of New- York, edited by Ed­mund B. O'Callaghan and Berthold Fernow (Albany, N.Y.: Weed, Parsons, 1856);

Johannes Megapolensis, "A Short Sketch of the Mohawk In­dians in New Netherland," translated by Brodhead, Col­lections of the New- York Historical Society, second series, 3 (1857): 137-160.

Educated in the classics, trained in the law, and experi­enced in diplomacy, John Romeyn Brodhead belonged to that distinguished class of scholarly gentlemen who con­tributed so much to American historical writing in the nine­teenth century. Although not a national figure like his friend George Bancroft, Brodhead played a major role in collect­ing the sources and writing the history of colonial New York. In the early 1840s, Brodhead embarked upon one of the most remarkable episodes in the annals of American historiog­raphy. Acting as the agent for the state of New York, he spent three years researching the archives of Europe for documents relating to New Netherland and colonial New York. He also became the first historian to draw extensively upon this unparalleled collection of early American

Ronald Howard is Associate Professor of History at Missis­sippi College, Clinton, Miss.

manuscripts. His History of the State of New York (2 volumes, 1853, 1871) was acclaimed by most contemporaries as the definitive scholarly account of both New Netherland and New York to 1691- Today, although much more qualified in their praise, scholars still rate Brodhead's history as the standard work on New York in the seventeenth century.

By both heritage and education, Brodhead was well suited for his role as the leading historian of early New York. His family roots reached deep into the state's Dutch and English past. On his mother's side, he was a descendant ofjan Jansen Bleecker, a Dutchman who had settled in New Netherland in 1658, and the Bleeckers of Albany remained quite proud of their Hollander origins. On his father's side, he was descended from Captain Daniel Brodhead, one of the English officers who had conquered the Dutch province in 1664. His father, the Reverend Dr. Jacob Brodhead, was a respected Dutch Reformed clergyman. In 1813, having preached for several years at the Collegiate Church in New York City, Dr. Brodhead moved his family to Philadelphia, where he ministered to the First Dutch Reformed Church. John Romeyn Brodhead was born the next year and named after an uncle, the Reverend John B. Romeyn. Brodhead's great-great-grandfather was Theodore Frelinghuysen, the Dutch

Reformed preacher usually credited with beginning the revivals of the Great Awakening. Given this family background, it is hardly surprising that Brodhead would become especially interested in the history of the Dutch in America.

Brodhead was thoroughly educated in the classics. He studied Latin and Greek as a child. In 1826, when he was twelve, his family moved back to New York City, and his father began to prepare him for college. That preparation included study at the Albany Academy, widely recognized as one of the finest grammar schools in the country. Already well versed in the Greek and Latin masters, young Brodhead was allowed to enter the junior class at Rutgers College, where he graduated with honors at the age of seventeen in 1831. Brodhead's devotion to classical literature became a lifelong passion that would contribute much to his style as a historian. Good history for Brodhead always had to be good literature.

After leaving Rutgers, Brodhead studied law for four years in the office of Hugh Maxwell, a prominent New York City attorney and politician. In 1835, at the age of twenty-one, he was admitted to the bar and practiced law for the next two years as Maxwell's partner. Although well on his way to a profitable career, he never liked the law as much as he loved literature and histoty. When his father fell ill in 1837, Brodhead left his practice to accompany his mother and ail­ing father to their modest summer home in Saugerties, New York. As the only living son, he felt a special tesponsibility to his family and spent the next two yeats caring for his ag­ing parents. During this time, according to his old friend Evert Duyckinck, Brodhead became engrossed in the study of early American history. He never practiced law again, but his legal training and experience probably contributed to the sharply legalistic perspective that came to characterize so much of his historical writing.

Not really content as a practicing lawyer, Brodhead tried diplomatic service and found it much more to his liking. His kinsman, Harmanus Bleecker, a distinguished Albany lawyer and charge'd'affaires at The Hague, invited Brodhead in 1839 to join his staff at the American legation. At the urging of his father, whose health had improved, he accepted and for the next year and a half mixed and mingled with the inter­national society of The Hague, improving all the while his facility in both French and Dutch. He became enchanted with Holland and the Dutch people and would thereafter always speak with great affection of the "fatherland." More interested now than ever before in the Dutch settlement of early America, he devoted much of his free time to searching the archives at The Hague for records dealing with New Netherland and English New York.

Charge Bleecker respected Brodhead's intelligence and shared his interest in history and literature. When he learned that the New-Yotk Histotical Society had persuaded the state legislature to provide funds for an agent to secure from Europe documents telating to colonial New York, Bleecker recommended Brodhead to the Society as the man for the job. Returning to New York in late 1840 to be with his gravely ill mother, Brodhead was appointed agent by Governor William H. Seward in early 1841. His appointment was heart­ily endorsed by both the New-York Historical Society and the St. Nicholas Society, the ethnic organization which celebrated the lingering Dutch culture of New York and of which Brodhead was a devoted member.

Leaving New York in May 1841, Brodhead spent the next three years investigating and transcribing government records

in England, Holland, and France. His was a labor of love, but it was filled with difficulty and disappointment. For almost a year, the British ministry, at the time disputing the boundary between Maine and Canada with the United States, refused him access to the Public Record Office. Dutch of­ficials were especially cordial, but much to his chagrin Brodhead found that the records of the West India Com­pany had been sold for scrap paper in 1821 and destroyed. The French government was also cooperative, though the archives of the Department of Marine and Colonies were a nightmare of confusion. Most troublesome of all, however, was the problem of funding. Repeatedly, because of the heavy expense of having clerks transcribe documents, Brodhead had to ask for additional funding from the New York legislature, which had initially allocated only four thousand dollars. Altogether, despite some legislative carping, he received twelve thousand dollars, though that barely covered his expenses.

Several state legislatots resented the expenditure, but the money was cettainly well spent.Brodhead acquired a treasure trove of historical documents. "The ship in which he came back," wrote George Bancroft, "was more richly freighted with new materials for America than any that ever crossed the Atlantic." In fact, Brodhead returned in August 1844 with eighty volumes of transcripts: sixteen from Holland, dating from 1604 to 1678 and consisting largely of memorials and papers from New Netherland to the Estates Genetal of the Dutch Republic; forty-seven from England, dating from 1614 to 1782 and composed mainly of correspondence from governors of New York; and seventeen from France, dating from 1631 to 1763 and composed primarily of letters from governors of Canada regarding the Indians and military dispatches from commanders during the French and Indian War. Definitely the man of the hour, Brodhead was feted by the New-York Historical Society and praised as a remarkably thorough and resourceful researcher. Later critics have likewise added their commendations.

Thanks to Brodhead, the sources for writing a comprehen­sive history of early New York were now available. The history of this wealthiest and most populous state had been sorely neglected. The trials and triumphs of its early settlers were hardly known, much less honored by later generations. The origins and development of its political and economic in­stitutions had never been fully recounted. William Smith's History of the Province of New-York (1757), though out­dated and very limited in scope and content, was about all there was. To that general neglect, Washington Irving had added literary caricature with his brilliant A History of New-York (1809), which he wrote under the pseudonym Diedrich Knickerbocker. Its resounding popularity doubly obscured the history of both New Netherland and colonial New York. When people thought of early New York, they often remembered Diedrich Knickerbocker and laughed. That par­ticularly bothered Brodhead and others of his ilk, many of whom were in the New-Yotk Historical Society and the St. Nicholas Society. It also distutbed the assemblymen at Albany. They wanted a history worthy of the Empire State. Now that the sources had been gathered, it remained to be seen what use would be made of them.

Brodhead had a plan. After his return to New York, he worked for the next six months ptepating a detailed catalogue of the transcripts and writing a report of his researches, both of which were submitted to Governor Silas Wright in Feb­ruary 1845. He hoped that the legislature might again follow

the advice of the New-York Historical Society and this time authorize the secretary of state to hire another clerk whose responsibility would be to collect, arrange, and translate historical records. Because of his command of French and Dutch, his research experience, and his knowledge of the manuscripts, Brodhead and the Society thought that he would be ideal for the position. The New York legislature, however, was not about to act hastily.

While waiting for the legislature to act, Brodhead moved easily into New York City's intellectual and literary circles, making many new friends, among them the struggling Her­man Melville and the famous George Bancroft. In 1846, Ban­croft left his position as secretary of the navy in President Polk's cabinet to become minister to Great Britain. He per­suaded Brodhead to join him as secretary of the American legation in London. Until Bancroft was recalled in 1849, Brodhead supervised the embassy, met British intellectuals like the historian Thomas Macaulay, and acted as the literary agent of his friend Melville. He also discreetly complained to his diary about the "Yankee Pretensions'' of the Bancrofts. Despite a very busy schedule, he enjoyed the years in Lon­don and began to think in terms of writing the history of New York himself.

Events in New York, however, were not going his way. In 1848, the legislature finally got around to allocating funds for a clerk who would be in charge of the archives in the secretary of state's office. Brodhead's friends tried very hard to get him the job, and Brodhead himself sent word from London that he would resign his diplomatic post immediately and return to New York if chosen. But the position went instead to Edmund B. O'Callaghan, an expatriate Irish physi­cian who had fled Canada after the Papineau Rebellion failed in 1837. Living for several years in Albany, O'Callaghan, because of his sympathy for the Hudson Valley rent rioters, began researching old land grants and became intrigued with the Dutch era of New York history. Thanks to Whig political boss Thurlow Weed, O'Callaghan got a job at the Brooklyn Naval Yard and moved to New York City, where he con­tinued his research in the municipal archives and wrote The History of New Netherland (2 volumes, 1845, 1848). Then came the offer of the clerkship.

In 1849, at the request of Secretary of State Christopher Morgan, the legislature authorized the publication of the state's historical documents. Brodhead, though he could ill afford it, offered to serve as editor of the project without pay. Although supremely qualified, he was again passed over. The editorial duties were routinely assigned to O'Callaghan, who shortly prepared The Documentary History of the State of New-York (4 volumes, 1849-1851). Under the supervi­sion of O'Callaghan and later his successor Berthold Fernow, the transcripts which Brodhead had collected in Europe were edited and published as Documents Relative to the Colonial History of'the State of'New-York (15 volumes, 1853-1887).

Brodhead understood that the political tide had simply gone against him. Although surely disappointed, he was much too gentlemanly and too busy to harbor ill will for his rival. In fact, he sponsored O'Callaghan's membership in the New-York Historical Society and readily agreed to write the lengthy introduction to volume one of the Documents. His own scholarly labors soon preoccupied him. From 1849 to 1853, relying largely upon his European transcripts, Brodhead concentrated his efforts on researching and writing the history of New York. He projected four volumes, cor­responding to the natural divisions he saw in the life of the

colony and state. The first was the Dutch era, dating from Hudson's discovery in 1609 to the surrender of New Nether-land in 1664. The second began with the English conquest and lasted until the end of the French and Indian War in 1763. The third began with the defeat of the French in North America, ran through the American Revolution, and ended with the inauguration of Washington as president in 1789. The fourth encompassed the years after New York became a part of the federal union.

Of the four divisions, none was more important to Brodhead than the first — the Dutch era. O'Callaghan's re­cent two-volume study, though commendable because it was based on original sources and served as an antidote to Diedrich Knickerbocker's history, was marred by factual er­rors, erratic documentation, and moralistic condemnation of all the Dutch governors. It simply was not scholarly. Like his friend Bancroft, Brodhead held the canons of critical scholarship in high regard. The facts had to be right, though his own work was not always free from bias. He cherished the Dutch tradition and was determined that what he called this "darkest period" in New York's past should be fully illuminated.

Published in 1853, the first volume of his History of the State of New York was thoroughly documented. It extolled the enterprising Dutch people, their commitment to political freedom and religious liberty, and their devotion to kith and kin. Brodhead told of the revolt of the Seven Provinces and continually related events in Holland to events in America. Writing in precise and finely honed prose, he invigorated his almost encyclopedic narrative with human drama, calculated to arouse respect and admiration for the hearty Dutch pioneers of New Netherland. He recounted in minute detail the expansion of trade, the building of churches and schools, and the growth of religious toleration and principles of self-government in the Dutch colony. After 750 pages, Brodhead felt that the Dutch contribution to New York history had finally been illuminated sufficiently.

Brodhead's volume on New Netherland was highly ac­claimed. "It is so full, so accurate, so marked by research and an honest love for historic truth," wrote George Ban­croft, "that we have only to bid him go and finish what he has so worthily begun." Later scholars, however, have noted that Brodhead, although capable of judicious analysis, tended to be legalistic to a fault. For example, he refused to admit that the English colonies might have a legitimate claim to any of the lands the Dutch said belonged to New Netherland, and he denounced the British conquest in 1664 as unpro­voked, immoral, and nothing less than international thievery. Admitting that the thinly populated Dutch colony was bound to fall to the English sooner or later, Brodhead placed the greatest blame on the Estates General of the Dutch Republic for leaving New Netherland in the selfish hands of an autocratic trading company. Thomas Condon has taken issue with Brodhead, insisting that there never was a possibility of the Estates General taking charge of the colony. Had it not been for the West India Company, Condon doubts that New Netherland would have had any real existence at all.

Such qualifications, however, should not diminish Brodhead's accomplishments. Bringing together a tremen­dous amount of European and American history, he suc­cessfully placed New Netherland within an international con­text. Always scholarly, his vivid style was never dull. Also to his credit, while focusing on the political relationships be­tween the arbitrary rule of the West India Company and the

settlers who wanted self-government, Brodhead gave more attention to economic, social, and religious matters than usually was given in this age when history was regarded as the record of past politics only. In the final analysis, despite pronounced biases in favor of the Dutch and against the British, Brodhead's first installment of the History of the State of New York was a remarkably thorough study of New Netherland that has yet to be surpassed.

Although he began working on it as soon as he had com­pleted volume one, Brodhead did not finish volume two until 1877. The intervening years were filled with activity, but he published only a few essays, concentrating his scholarly ef­forts on the unfinished history. In 1853, President Pierce ap­pointed him naval officer of the Port of New York. That same year, Brodhead was made a trustee of Rutgers College, where he and his father had some years earlier established the Brodhead Prize in the classics. A leading member of the New-York Historical Society, he served on its editorial board and executive committee and occasionally edited documents for its Proceedings. He was an active supporter of the Astor Library, whose head, Dr. Joseph Cogswell, was a close friend, and served as a trustee of that institution from 1867 until 1871. In 1856, at the age of forty-two, he married Eugenia Bloodgood, daughter of Simeon DeWitt Bloodgood, a wealthy and distinguished New York merchant. For the first time in his life, thanks to his wife, Brodhead found himself financially secure. After his tenure as naval officer expired with the Pierce administration, Brodhead purchased a house in Manhattan, moved his wife and library there, and devoted the rest of his life to writing his history and participating in the intellectual and social life of New York City.

While continuing work on volume two, Brodhead wrote several essays, a few of which were subsequently published. In 1853, in an address before the Mercantile Library Associa­tion, he traced the commercial history of New York, be­ginning, of course, in the trading colony of New Netherland. It was also at this time that Brodhead wrote the introduction to volume one of Documents Relative to the Colonial History of the State of New- York, published belatedly, after several volumes had appeared, in 1856. This lengthy essay, which included his 1845 report to the legislature, explained the gtowth of the movement for preserving historical records in New York, noting especially the efforts of the New-York Historical Society. Although often overlooked today, this in­troduction is a classic expression of that mixture of state pride and patriotism which inspired so much historical inquiry in nineteenth-centuty America.

Dedicated to the Democratic party and to the national union, Brodhead had hoped that the sectional antagonisms of the 1850s might somehow be compromised. The Civil War shocked and saddened him, and he sought consolation dur­ing those awful years of fratricidal strife in his research and writing. On two occasions he addressed meetings of the New-York Histotical Society and revealed some of the conclusions of his research for volume two of his History. In 1864, in an essay commemorating the two hundredth anniversary of the English conquest of New Netherland, Brodhead further developed his argument that the British seizure of the Dutch colony was disgustingly illegal and emphasized the Dutch legacy of democtatic politics and religious toleration left to English New Yorkers. Two years later, in a paper, "The Government of Sir Edmund Andros over New England, in 1688 and 1689,'' Brodhead took a harsh anti-Massachusetts stand. He defended the right of James II to establish the

Dominion of New England and denounced the old Puritan leaders as hypocrites for piously calling for a return to "representative government" while steadfastly resisting religious minorities who wished to be represented. In dif­ferent ways, both essays reflected the lingering Yankee-Yorker antagonism of the day.

During the late 1860s, Brodhead's health began to deteriorate, but he continued to work on his History. In 1871, he at last published volume two, covering the years from 1664 to 1691. Criticism of New Englanders was a dominant theme throughout, from the first chapter discussing once again the British conquest of 1664 to the denouement of Leisler's Rebellion in 1691. Another theme was the gradual transi­tion from Dutch to English rule, its political consequences, and its impact upon the culture and economy of the prov­ince. As in volume one, Brodhead integrated international and colonial affairs, giving special emphasis to the second Anglo-Dutch War and relations with the French and the In­dians. As for the Dominion of New England, he repeated his earlier charges against Massachusetts Bay, going so far as to accuse its leaders of committing "Secession" because they imprisoned Governor Andros, destroyed the Dominion, and restored their sectarian oligarchy to power.

New York too had rejected the Dominion government, but that was far different, Brodhead insisted, explaining that New Yorkers generally and Dutch New Yorkers particularly were truly loyal to the government of William and Mary. They were, however, manipulated by the unscrupulousjacob Leisler, whose jealousy of the wealthy New York City mer­chants led him to arouse the common people against their government. Leisler, Brodhead was at pains to point out, was German rather than Dutch, and Albany, the most thoroughly Dutch town in New York in 1690, steadfastly refused to accept Leisler's rebel government. After Leisler's fall from power, it was the Dutch king of England, William, Brodhead emphasized, who finally allowed New York to have a representative assembly.

Much like the first, this second volume was a wonderful­ly complete compendium of the events and personalities behind the history of New York from 1664 to 1691. Thoroughly documented, it was characterized by Brodhead's usual facile yet forceful prose. The following passage on the results of the English conquest of New Netherland is repre­sentative of both his writing style and his historical perspec­tive : " In the progress of years, a common allegiance and com­mon dangers produced greater sympathy among the Anglo-American plantations. Nevertheless, although incorporated into the British colonial empire, New York never lost her social and political identity and her salutary moral influence. It was her lot to sustain fiercer trials, and gain a more varied experience, than any other American state. It was equally her destiny to temper the narrow characteristics of her English sister colonies with the larger ideas which she herself derived from Holland. Midway between New England and Virginia, she stood for nearly a century guarding her long frontier against the attacks of Canada; and at length she became the PIVOT PROVINCE, on which hinged the most important movements of the sublime revolt against the oppression of England, the only parallel to which was the successful strug­gle that the forefathers of her first settlers maintained against the gigantic despotism of Spain."

Volume two of the History of the State of New York was widely praised. New Englanders rightly resented those

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The Dutch Colonial History in the Netherlands Antilles

by R.A. Romer

A paper on the Dutch colonial history of the Netherlands Antilles will undoubtedly impose some restrictions on the writer, restrictions motivated by the historical fact that the Dutch presence in the Caribbean, although it can be con­sidered a fragmented one split up into some central set­tlements and their corresponding spheres of influence, can still be reduced to some common elements which cannot be put aside without further ado. Therefore, I would first like to pay some attention to the colonization of the New World by Holland in general. In the first place the reason for the conquest and colonization of certain points in the New World. Goslinga, a Dutch historian who is also well known in the United States, remarks in this context: ' 'Neither gold nor the lust for adventure ultimately brought the Dutch in­to the forbidden waters of the Caribbean. It was their need for salt which forced them to penetrate in the "mare clausum" in open defiance of Philip II ."1

The Dutch herring-industry was steadily expanding and this required salt. Salt was also needed for the making of cheese and butter, both famous Dutch products. Goslinga concludes in this respect: " . . . hence the fate of the Dutch was intimately bound up with locating this commodity."2

A legitimate question in this context is, however, why they had to look for this commodity as far away as the Caribbean?

This brings us to another important factor for their col­onization, which is the insurrection of the Low Countries (as the Dutch provinces were called) against Spain, which broke out in 1568. Formerly they used to get the salt from Spain, but the Spanish King Philip II put an end to this in 1585.3 By the turn of the century they had already discovered the Lagoon of Punta de Araya in Venezuela, well known to but not exploited by the Spaniards. Here they found excellent salt but were thrown out by a Spanish fleet especially dispat­ched for that purpose. Between 1600 and 1605 the Spaniards had registered 786 Dutch ships on the coast of Tierra Firme near Punte de Araya. This gives an impression of the magnitude of this illegal trade.4 In 1609 the so-called Twelve Years' Truce was proclaimed in the independence war against Spain of the meanwhile constituted Republic of the Seven Provinces (1579).

At the end of this period a fundamental change occur­red in the Dutch attitude towards colonization and notably their attitude vis-a-vis the Spanish possessions in the Americas: in 1621 the Dutch founded the West India Com­pany. Although the West India Company had as its main objective the making of war and privateering against Spain, commerce and colonization were good seconds even if they were in the beginning primarily a means to the first objective.

In general, one can say that the history of the 17th cen­tury and the first decades of the 18th century is the history of European wars which were predominantly fought in the Caribbean with the islands as targets of privateering and con­

quest. The Dutch were no exception to this rule. They now started infiltrating in the Spanish colonial domain and con­centrated first on the neglected islands, the so-called "islas inutiles," the useless islands. In 1631 they landed on St. Mar­tin, primarily for the salt that was produced on that island. In the second place they took advantage of the opportunity for illegal trade with the English and the French on nearby St. Christopher (presently St. Kitts).

The salt of St. Martin was famous for its quality. The Great Bay was very soon after the conquest frequented by Dutch ships. In the year of the conquest already 90 ships called at that port.5 In 1633, however, the Dutch were ex­pelled from St. Martin by the Spaniards. They had to look for another "pied a terre" (a foothold) in the Catibbean and directed their attention to Curacao, an island they were aquainted with from short visits to nearby Bonaire. Already in 1626 and 1629 the Dutch had called at Bonaire for wood and salt. The salt-pans of Curacao were known to them.

In August 1634 the conquest was a fact with the surrender and retreat of the Spanish governor Lope Lopez de Morla.6

The conquest of Bonaire took place in April 1636 and of Aruba a month later that same year.7 With a short English interval from 1807-1816 these islands have always been in Dutch hands. As for the Windward islands of St. Martin, St. Eustatius and Saba, in 1644 an abortive effort was made to reconquer St. Martin. In this battle Peter Stuyvesant, whom we shall meet later as the Governor-General of New Netherland and Curacao, lost his right leg. St. Martin re­mained in Spanish hands till 1648 when Spain and Holland signed the Peace of Munster.8

St. Eustatius was taken by an expedition from Zeeland in 1636 for its favourable position for trade with St. Kitts and Antique. Although the island was uninhabited at the time, formerly English (1605) and French (1629) settlers had lived on the islands; both colonizations had failed, however. The Dutch were more successful. Finally, in 1640 the col­onization of Saba started with a settlement from St. Eustatius.9

The colonization of St. Martin and St. Eustatius took place under the so-called patroon system whereby the patroon, quite often a wealthy merchant, had a commission to col­onize the island. He was ultimately responsible to the West India Company. The system of patroonship, however, was

1 Goslinga, C.Ch., A. Short history of the Netherlands Antilles and Sur-nam, The Hague-Boston-London, 1979, page 20.

* Ibid.

' Ib id . 4 Boomgaart, van den E., De Nederlandse expensie in het Atlantische

gebied 1590-1674, in Overzee, Haarlem, 1982, page 115. 5 Goslinga, C.Ch. The Dutch in the Caribbean, Assen, 1971, page 132. 6 Goslinga, o.c. 1979, page 24. 7 Ibid, page 27. 8 Ibid, page 32. 9 Goslinga, C.Ch. o . c , 1971, page 62, W.Johnson, Saban Lore, (2nd

ed) Saba, 1983, page 13.

Dr. Romer, Governor of the Netherland Antilles, delivered this paper at our Midwinter Gathering on March 7, 1985.

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gradually abandoned. Between 1681 and 1683 St. Eustatius and Saba came under direct jurisdiction of the second West India Company, the Southern part of St. Martin in 1703. The A.B.C. islands were under the jurisdiction of the Chamber of Amsterdam, the three S-islands under the authority of the Chamber of Zeeland.

A few remarks on the West India Company to clarify this partition are due here: During the Twelve Years' Truce several meetings were held between the Estates General and the Provincial Estates of Holland to discuss the foundation of a West India Company, especially with a view to safeguard­ing the provision of salt. In fact this was an old idea of Willem van Usselinx, who had settled in Amsterdam coming from Antwerp.

On the 3rd of June 1621, immediately after the war was resumed, the company became a reality. This first West In­dia Company consisted of five chambers; Amsterdam, Zeeland, the Maas (Rotterdam), the Northern Quarter and Friesland with Groningen. The company was governed by a council of XIX Lords, consisting of representatives of the various chambers and of the Estates General. The first West India Company existed from 1621 to 1674. It was succeeded by the second West India Company, governed by a council of X Lords. This second West India Company was dissolved in 1791. As it was not possible for the council to govern the whole territory of the Company, the various chambers, but especially the most powerful chambers of Amsterdam and Zeeland, got part of the territory under their jurisdiction.10

The situation on the Antillian islands after a few decades of being in the possession of the West India Company can be described as follows: Curacao for some years after the con­quest in 1634 had been a base for waging war, a sedes belli, and for privateering. After the Peace of Munster in 1648 it developed into a transit harbour of illegal trade, especially slaves and European consumer goods for the surrounding Spanish territories.

There was some agriculture, i.e., sugar, indigo and tobac­co, but this was of no economic importance. Agriculture was abandoned very soon. About 1670 it was calculated that the population consisted of 150 employees of the West India Company, some five to six thousand white colonists and some two thousand slaves. Aruba which was kept as a horse ranch, had scarcely any European inhabitants. The population at the time consisted predominantly of Indians (Arowaks). Bonaire was primarily of importance for its salt, while for the benefit of Curacao there was some animal husbandry especially goats, and charcoal production. The work was done by slaves of the Company under the guidance of white overseers.

The most important of the three S-islands was St. Eustatius, where some thousand colonists of Dutch, English and French nationality, with about two thousand slaves, were practising agriculture, producing cotton, tobacco, sugar and indigo. Just as in the case of Curacao, illegal trade with the surrounding English and French islands should also be men­tioned. Saba and St. Martin at the time were of little importance.11 The illegal trade from St. Eustatius was not only directed to the surrounding islands but also the English colonies in North-America, including the former Dutch col­ony of New Netherland.

The Dutch colonization in the New World didn't limit itself to the islands in the Caribbean. Two colonies, one on the Northern and one on the Southern continent of America, should be mentioned here: the colony of New Netherland,

which was mentioned before and the colonization of Nor­thern Brazil. (Pernambuco).

To start with the latter: although taking place outside the Caribbean, the activities of the Dutch in Brazil should be mentioned too, because they cannot be considered apart from the Dutch colonization in the Caribbean and North-America. The same can be said of the Wild Coast, better known as the Guyana's. Bothjohan van Walbeeck, the con­queror of Curacao from the Spaniards, and the well-known governor of New Netherland and Curacao, Peter Stuyvesant had been first in Brazil.12

The Dutch had known Brazil since the end of the 16th century. Although in 1580 Portugal had come under Spanish rule, the Spaniards had not considered it necessary to apply their bureaucratic rules to the Portuguese colonies. Trade was permitted illegally. Dutch merchants, through their agents in Oporto, had a substantial part in the sugar-trade from Brazil. After the Truce in 1621 and with the founda­tion of the West India Company, they changed their policy vis-a-vis the Brazilian trade. In December 1623 a fleet of twenty-three ships under command of Jacob Willekens and Piet Heyn, (who a few years later, in 1628, would become famous for the conquest of the Silver Fleet from the Spaniards) sailed from Holland to reach Sao Salvador da Bahia in May 1624. The settlement was taken without any substan­tial resistance. Although the conquest of Sao Salvador da Bahia was undone the following year (in April 1625) the Dutch settlement in Brazil lasted till 1654.13

Five years after the loss of Bahia, in 1630, the Dutch made another attempt to penetrate in the Portuguese imperium in the South Atlantic area. That year Olinda and Recife in Pernambuco were conquered. From there they expanded their territory to the Northern part of Pernambuco by an­nexing Itamarca', Paraiba, Rio Grande etc. In 1637 Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen, a second cousin of Prince William of Orange, became governor of Recife. By 1639 the West India Company had about 10,000 people in its Brazilian territory.14

This led to a truce with the Portuguese in 1642. However, that same year the Portuguese planters rebelled; reportedly the reason was the big debts they owed the West India Com­pany. This rebellion actually put an end to the colonization in Brazil, although the Dutch kept a foothold in Recife de Pernambuco till 1654, in which year this settlement was reconquered by the Portuguese. It took some years before a peace treaty was signed in 1661 by both parties, which stipulated that Portugal had to pay indemnity to Holland for the loss of its Brazilian colony.

The colonization of New Netherland was in a certain sense more successful, although not of much longer duration. After Henry Hudson had sailed deep into the mainland of North-America to a point near the site of the present Albany, he aroused much interest among the Dutch merchants who in part had made his discovery possible. A few years later, late in 1614 ot early in 1615, a stockaded trading post was erected in Castle Island, within the limits of Albany. The settlement

10 Hoboken, van W.J., The Dutch West India Company, in: Dutch authors on West India History, Leiden, 1982, page 136. See also E. van den Boomgaart, o.c. page 116 and

11 Boomgaart, van den, o.c. page 137. 12 Goslinga, o.c. 1979, page 30. 13 Menkman, W.R., DeWest Indische Compagnie, Amsterdam 1947, page

53-54. 14 Boomgaart, van den, o.c. page 118-121.

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was called Fort Nassau. In 1621 the West India Company, in accordance with its charter, got the jurisdiction for col­onizing this area.15

New Nether land, however, was never colonized systematically and in fact got stuck somewhere in its develop­ment from a series of trading posts to an organized colonial community. The Chamber of Amsterdam at first tried to develop an agricultural colony. Later it changed to the systems of patroonship with some of the financially strongest trustees as beneficiaries. One of these was Kiliaen van Rensselaer who founded Rensselaerswijk, near the upper course of the Hud­son. The majority of the colonists in New Netherland, in­cluding the English, took to trade, especially the fur trade.

In 1646 the Board of Trustees of the West India Com­pany decided to join the two colonies of Curacao and New Netherland. Notwithstanding his handicap, Peter Stuyve-sant was appointed governor of the two colonies. He was at the time in Holland because of his injuries. He sailed that same year via Curacao, of which colony he had been govern­or since 1643, to New Netherland to take up his new ap­pointment. Stuyvesant seems to have been an authoritarian, obstinate person who was nicknamed ' 'stiff-necked Peter."

Contrary to the colonization in Asia, where the Dutch succeeded in creating one big coherent colonial empire, this didn't materialize in the Americas. The joining of the two colonies of Curacao and New Netherland was dictated predominantly by considerations of economy, just as the case in the joining of the Leeward A.B.C. Islands and the Wind­ward Islands. In both cases the measure was from an ad­ministrative point of view very inefficient, not to mention the contrasting interests of the various colonies; or to put it differently; they had very few common interests.

In the case of New Netherland and Curacao, only in cer­tain aspects were the two colonies complementary to each other: New Netherland could provide the islands with food­stuffs and the islands could supply New Netherland with salt, horses and slaves. Both colonies, however, had more contrasting than common interests, because both were com­mercial settlements. Curacao, for example, could sell its slaves for a better price to the surrounding Spanish colonies than to New Netherland. The North-American colony, on the other hand, in its turn very often sold slaves imported from Curacao to the English colonies, again for a better price than Curacao was paid. Curacao could get its food-stuffs easily from the Spanish colonies and exported European goods to these colonies. This unitary structure of the Dutch colonies lasted till the end of the second Anglo-Dutch war in 1667. In 1664, even before war was declared, an English fleet under the command of Richard Nicols appeared before New Amsterdam and demanded the surrender of the town.

New Amsterdam could not resist the English forces and had to surrender. At the end of the war in 1667 with the peace of Breda, New Netherland definitively became English. The West India Company was allowed to keep its conquest on the Wild Coast, referred to as the colony of Surinam. With the occupation of New Netherland the administrative ties between this colony and Curacao came to an end.16 But in fact the peace of Breda also put an end to the Dutch supremacy in the Caribbean. Finally, it meant a provisional

agreement between France, England and Holland on the divi­sion of the colonies in the Caribbean.

Although formally the ties between the Dutch islands and New Netherland came to an end, the established rela­tions persisted, especially with St. Eustatius. Partly this can be attributed to the fact that this island lay much closer to New York and was often "en route" to the Eastern Carib­bean and Europe, but partly too because the population of Statia consisted for a substantial part of people of English descent, while English was, and still is, the colloquial language.

Again illegal trade played an important role. Merchants of St. Eustatius reportedly imported sugar from the French islands and exported this again in English vessels. This lucrative illegal trade culminated during the revolution of the North American colonies. Both from Curacao and from St. Eustatius munitions, weapons and food-stuffs were smuggled into the rebelling colonies. The number of ships visiting St. Eustatius increased by 40% from 1768 to 1779, notwithstanding a blockade by the English.

One of these ships was the Andrew Doria, a merchant-vessel turned man of war, which became famous, when on its visit to St. Eustatius on the 16th of November of 1776 the Great Union Flag was for the first time officially saluted from Fort Oranje on that island. This was the first salute given by a foreign government to a flag flown by a United States naval vessel. The island, however, had to pay very dearly for this audacious deed: in 1781 Admiral George Brydges Rodney on a punitive expedition conquered and plundered the island. St. Eustatius never recovered from this blow.

The island was, however, not only a smugglers' nest, it played an important role also in the communication between the rebelling colonies and their supporters in Europe. The correspondence between Benjamin Franklin and his secret envoy in The Hague used to pass through St. Eustatius. Curacao was spared the fate that overcame St. Eustatius because the merchandise from Curacao most of the time was delivered through other ports, among others St. Eustatius.17

Speaking of the history of the Dutch in the Americas, it should be kept in mind that there have been two West India Companies. The first existed from 1621-1674, the sec­ond from 1674-1791- With the loss of the North-American colonies the second West India Company later made Curacao the centre of Dutch possessions in the Caribbean. Curacao became the centre of the Dutch presence in the Caribbean, which it still is, in fact.

In addition to Curacao, the island of St. Eustatius was also a settlement of importance. The Dutch territory in the Caribbean was not expanded any more after the second Anglo-Dutch war. No efforts were made, for example, to conquer the French part of St. Martin, notwithstanding the various wars with France. St. Martin is an exceptional place, as it is the only place where France and Holland have a com­mon border.

Up till now we have dealt only with the external history of the Dutch possessions in the Caribbean. Only by implica­tion did I mention the developments in Curacao and St. Eustatius. Let us now look at the internal history and deal more closely with the question how the societies on these islands, especially the two most important islands of Curacao and St. Eustatius, developed.

To stimulate the settlement of colonists the West India Company was willing to put land at the disposal of those

(continued on page 28)

" Ibid, page 138-144; See also encyclopaedic Britanica, 1973, page 146. 16 Boomgaart, van den, o.c. page 144. 17 Hartog, J., De Nederlandse Antillen en de Verenigde Staten van

Amerika, Zutphen, 1983, page 16-19-

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Society Members Enjoy Centennial Cruise

On Saturday, January 19th, 34 members and guests em­barked at Tampa, Florida for a gala seven day cruise of the Western Caribbean. The spanking new ship ms Nieuw Amsterdam of the Holland America Line (launched May 14, 1983) was selected for the trip since it is most tastefully decorated with portraits, maps, and artifacts collected from 17th century New Netherland.

Our Society group gathered for a festive champagne "bon-voyage" party in the "Crows Nest Lounge" adorned with 17th century maps of North America and a reproduc­tion of the flag of Vlieland, one of the chambers (divisions) of the Dutch West India Company. The gentlemen were presented Centennial medals, and the ladies, medallions, featuring the Dutch Lion from the seal of the Society, which served as group identification throughout the voyage. We were honored when Past President Thomas Vanderveer came aboard to see us off and wish the Society success in its Centennial year.

On Sunday, we got together in the "Queens' Dining Room" for a "kick-off" Centennial luncheon. President John H. Vander Veer briefly addressed the assemblage, and the centennial year was duly welcomed by appropriate toasts. The Queens' Room was assigned to our group throughout the cruise and was beautifully appointed with btonze sculptures of queens reigning during the 17th century — Queen Mary Stuart I (1631-1661), Mary Stuart II (1662-1694) and Amalia van Solms (1602-1675) —consort of Prince Frederick Hendnck of Orange. The food was ex­cellent, and the dining room service impeccable.

The luncheon was followed that evening by the Cap­tain's formal welcome aboard party and gala dinner. The welcome party was held in the "Stuyvesant Lounge," named after Director-General Peter Stuyvesant, which was the site of the formal entertainment offered each night, and after

dinner dancing to the music of a fine orchestra from the Philippines. The dramatic focus of this two-tiered salon is the scale model of the stern of an ancient Dutch West India Company trading vessel featuring the coat of arms of New Netherland with its beaver.

On Monday we docked at Cozumel, Mexico for shore excursions and visits to the duty-free shops that lined the pier.

Tuesday, the Society hosted a cocktail party in the "Min­newit Terrace Lounge" which was festively decorated with the flags of the Society and Dutch West India Company. The ship's brochure states this lounge was named after Peter Minuit whose name was changed to Minnewit because of his affiliation to the West India Company. A copy of the document certifying his purchase of the island of Manhat­tan from the Algonquian Indians is mounted on the star­board side of the lounge. In the evening we partook of a "Dutch" dinner which featured "Hutspot" prepared by Mr. L.C. de Bruin, executive chef. (Chef de Bruin most cor­dially greeted our members and presented each with copies of all the menus served on-board and his recipe for the "Hutspot" at the final dinner of the cruise.)

Wednesday was a day of leisure in Montego Bay, Jamaica. We were treated to an impressive dockside parade and stirring music by a Jamaican military marching band as we cast off to sail to our next port of call, Grand Cayman Island.

We anchored off-shore at this lovely and clean island Thursday, and the ships tenders were put to use to ferry passenger to and from its capital, Georgetown. On our return to the ship, the Society was regaled with yet another cocktail party, hosted by Landry & Kling, our cruise con­sultants, and followed by another formal dinner in the Queens' Room.

14)

On Friday, the last day at sea, the Society hosted a Farewell reception in the "Crows Nest Lounge" attended by Captain A.J. Hess, the chief mate, chief engineer, and many other ship's officers — all of whom had been most at­tentive of our comfort and wellbeing throughout the cruise. President Vander Veer presented all the officers present with souvenirs of the Society Centennial, and also, on behalf of the participants, presented Trustee Arthur Smock, chair­man of the Society's Centennial Committee, a handsome brass replica of the ship's bell. Captain Hess then gave all our group boxes of "hopjes" depicting the ms Nieuw Amsterdam in color, and presented Mr. Smock with a love­ly Delft Blue platter commemorating the launching of the ship in 1983. Featured at this party was a large "anniver­sary Cake" prepared by the pastry chef and artfully decorated with the Society's Dutch Lion in orange icing, and including the Centennial motto, "De Boom Groeit en Draagt Vrucht," which was thoroughly enjoyed by all at dinner that evening accompanied by champagne.

The group then adjourned to the Stuyvesant Lounge for "International Horseracing. " Trustee James Vreeland had graciously entered a horse on behalf of the Society, aptly named "de Halve Maen," and most ably ridden by Margarett Van Wagner. Unfortunately, although strongly backed by our group, and vociferously cheered throughout the race, our entry was nosed out at the wire, and the Society

lost a handsome purse that was dedicated to our Centen­nial fund.

Other interesting artifacts on board, and enjoyed by our members, included a large scale model of the "William IV of Orange" a 54 gun warship that protected the sea lanes of the West India Company, and was suspended in the main stairwell, a beautiful model of "de Halve Maen" in the card room, and two large bronze statues of beavers flanking the entrance to the "Hudson Lounge."

All in all, the Cruise was a most auspicious "kick-off" event for the Centennial Celebration of The Holland Society of New York.

Those enjoying this gala cruise included President and Mrs. John Vander Veer and Trustee and Mrs. Robert Nostrand from New York; Trustee and Mrs. James Vreeland and Trustee and Mrs. Arthut Smock from Newjersey; Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hoagland from Maine; Mr. and Mrs. John Van Horn from Vermont; Mr. and Mrs. George Van Duyne from California; Mr. and Mrs. Gene Van Sickle from In­diana; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Van Winkle from Connecticut; Mt. and Mrs. Kendick Van Pelt from North Carolina; Mr. and Mrs. Paul Van Horn and Dr. and Mrs. Robert De Gtoat ftom Newjersey; Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Cuomo from New York; and Mr. and Mrs. James Van Wagner, Mr. and Mrs. Dudley Van Kleek, Mr. and Mrs. Melwood Van Scoyoc, and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Darlington from Florida.

The ms Nieuw Amsterdam by Gene Van Sickle

All of us on the Holland Society Centennial Cruise were impressed by the immensity of this ship, 11 decks high, with 605 state rooms to accommodate more than 1200 guests. The crew of 600 consisted of Dutch Officers and Indonesian personnel — well trained to make every guest feel as though he were the ship's owner.

The beauty of the ship starts at the Bridge where "State of the Art" technology and electronics are exemplified. Computers monitor every aspect of the ship's operation, and satellite communications keep the crew constantly informed as to its location, en-route weather, and are used to provide public telephone service.

Launched in May, 1983, this luxurious floating city of 2000 people — 704 feet long — can be turned completely around within its own length using fore and aft side-thrusters, which can also be used to push the ship sideways from its pier.

For the mechanically minded in our group, the great thrill was a tour of the six-deck-high engine room. She is powered by two giant seven cylinder constant speed diesel engines — each cylinder more than three feet in diameter! The huge drive shafts drive variable pitch propellers, each weighing 17 tons. Fuel consumption averages 75 tons per day (or about 49 gallons per mile). The engine room also houses diesel generators, sea water conversion equipment, and the air conditioning system. There are 12 certified marine engineers, electrical, mechanical, and electronic technicians, plus firemen and wipers. A number of members of our group had an escorted tour of the engine room, but the constant noise was too great to hear our escort's commentary.

The first morning at sea is always LIFE-BOAT DRILL. I wish I had taken my camera to record all the passengers lining by the rail in their bright orange flotation gear (orange for visibility not because she is a Dutch ship!). The Nieuw Amsterdam carries 12 lifeboats equipped with the very latest survival gear, and four Tenders (or ship to shore ferries) carry­ing 100 passengers each, for use when the liner must an­chor off-shore at certain ports of call. We rode these Tenders during our visit to Grand Cayman Island.

The public accommodations and on-board entertain­ment were also outstanding. All the public rooms displayed 17th century Dutch West India artifacts that would make any fine arts museum proud to own — including a chest that had been used by Peter Stuyvesant! — altogether pro­viding a most appropriate environment for the Society's Centennial observance.

The main dining room, The Manhattan room, seated over 700 guests, and included two small wings called the King's Room and the Queen's room. Our group was ac­corded the distinction of being assigned to the Queen's room, insuring privacy for our group affairs. The unlimited supply and variety of fine food was amazing. The large menu offered a wide selection of gourmet food three times a day. For dinner outstanding desserts such as "cherries jubilee" or "Baked Alaska" were available for the asking.

For those who preferred less formal meals, or were wear­ing casual attire, the Lido Cafeteria offered a bountiful buf­fet for breakfast, lunch, or midnight snacks. A French pastry counter and Ice Cream bar were also available — certainly

no place for dieters! The Lido also included an open deck where you could have your meals by the swimming pool.

For the drinking element, there was a bar in nearly every location you might wish to go. To name a few: The Stuyve­sant Lounge, with live entertainment twice every evening; The Peter Minnewit Terrace, named after the first Director of the New Netherland Company — Peter Minuit; The Hudson Lounge (which included Henry's bar) for after din­ner drinks, music, and dancing; The Explorer's Lounge, with music provided by a string trio; the Peartree club, named for the tree planted by Stuyvesant in New York; and The Big Apple Bar, and Crow's Nest Lounge to top them all.

Entertainment was practically non-stop, from singing and dancing by stars from Las Vegas to native island "Lim­bo" dancers. One night the Indonesian waiters and stewards entertained us using native musical instruments in their own band. On other nights music was supplied by an excellent orchestra from the Philippine Islands.

Other activities included guest contests, bingo, "horse racing," dance and bridge lessons, tennis, golf, trap shooting, and, of course, the Wampum Casino. Guests also had available two swimming pools and a gym and spa.

There are a group of tax free shops aboard located in the "Perel Straet" arcade for purchases of momentos, clothing, jewelry, and gifts. In these shops, as in all the bars and lounges, purchases are charged to your account, to be settled before disembarkation.

Personally, I was thrilled with all of the above features of this great ship, and especially our informal chats with the Captain and other ship's officers who attended several of our Society cocktail parties, but since I have never at­tended a Holland Society meeting in New York, and had never before met a single one of our group — getting to know them was the greatest!

Incidentally, two thirds of our group were "Vans" — What more fitting Centennial Celebration of the found­

ing of The Holland Society of New York could we have im­agined than this gala cruise aboard this immaculate ship, the ms Nieuw Amsterdam of the Holland America Line!

Our tour guide, Ted Eastwick of Landry & Kling, did a marvelous job organizing this tour including air transpor­tation to and from Tampa. He gave personal attention to everyone in our group during the entire trip. For those of you who missed-the-boat (ship!), call Ted at (212) 686-6200 for a nice catalogue of the Holland America Line, and start thinking about a cruise on this magnificent ship for yourself.

Editors note: Gene Van Sickle, a member from Indianapolis, was with the ''Heritage Tour" of the Netherlands in 1978 sponsored by the Dutch Reformed Church, which included ourDomine, Rev. Dr. Howard Hageman, and Dr. Norman Vincent Peale. His article on that trip was published in de Halve Maen, Winter 1978, issue #4.

)

The Midwinter Gathering of the Dutch Nation in New York

The Centennial Year of the Holland Society of New York was enthusiastically welcomed by close to 150 members and guests who gathered at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City to witness the formal investiture of Society President John H. Vander Veer as "Honorary Director-General of New Netherland," and to hear an illuminating address on "The Dutch Colonial History in the Netherlands Antilles" by His Excellency, Professor Dr. R.A. Romer, Governor of The Netherlands Antilles.

The assemblage included all the officers of the Society, past presidents Kenneth L. Demarest, Jr. and James E. Quackenbush, Trustees Emeritus Wilfred B. Talman and Charles A. Van Patten, and many of our active Trustees. Society members from as far distant as Kentucky, Ohio, Eastern Connecticut and upstate New York were among those present, as were a number of representatives from the New York Society of Holland Dames, who added grace and charm to the gala affair.

The evening of March 7, 1985 began with a reception and cocktail hour at the "St. Regis Roof" ballroom afford­ing the guests a beautiful view of the midtown Manhattan skyline. During the reception, those present had the op­portunity to meet our honored guests, Governor and Mrs. Romer, His Excellency CJ.M. Kramers, Consul-General of The Netherlands in New York, and Mrs. Kramers, and Mr. Henry Fisher, Deputy Director of the Netherlands National Toutist Bureau, and Mrs. Fisher.

The dinner following was an elegant candlelit affair, with the room festively decorated with flags of the Society and the Provinces of the Netherlands. Most appropriately, lovely arrangements of Dutch Tulips in full bloom adorned each table.

Introductory remarks by President Vander Veer traced the origins of the "Midwinter Gatherings" to the early years of the Society, evolving from a purely social and convivial "smoker" to a black-tie stag affair featuring speeches by "Captains of Industry" at such sites as The Waldorf Astoria in the 1960's.

The Invocation by the Reverend Dr. Howard G. Hageman, Domine of the Society, preceded the traditional and ceremonious ' 'parading of the Beaver'' by The Burgher Guard to sustained applause by the assembled guests. The Beaver was displayed in front of the speakers' rostrum for the balance of the evening.

The traditional toasts were proposed to Her Majesty, Queen Beatrix by Dr. Romer, to President Reagan by Consul-General Kramers, to The Centennial of the Society by Mr. Henry Fisher, and to our guest speaker, Governor Romer, by Trustee Arthur R. Smock, Jr., chairman of the Society's Centennial Committee.

Burgher Guardsmen then circulated among the tables and presented Centennial favors to the guests present — handsome marble paperweights with a colorful cloisonne enamel medallion depicting the seal of "Nieuw Nederlandt,' ' a beaver crouched on a blue field, the shield surrounded by a strand of wampum beads. These most felicitous and traditional preliminaries served as a build-up to the highlight of the evening, the investiture of President

President Vander Veer greets Governor Romer

Vander Veer as "Honorary Director-General" in a ceremony derived from ancient 17th century customs in New Netherland.

Mr. Smock attended the rostrum and read the follow­ing resolution: WHEREAS, John H. Vander Veer has been duly elected to serve as the President of the Holland Society of New York by the membership at its 99th Annual Meeting, and will serve in that capacity during the Centennial Celebration of the Society, and: WHEREAS, by tradition, the President of the Holland Society of New Yotk is the leader of New Netherland Dutch descendants.

NOW THEREFORE let it be known that the Trustees of the Holland Society of New York, in assembly, have elected and appointed the aforesaid John H. Vander Veer to re-assume in a ceremonial and honorary capacity the functions of the Directors-General of New Netherland appointed by

Mr. Smock investing President Vander Veer as Honorary Director General of New Netherland

the Dutch West India Company in the seventeenth century — interrupted for three centuries but never formally relinquished. BE IT further resolved that the aforesaid John H. Vander Veer be formally invested in the title "Honorary Director-General of New Netherland" at the Midwinter Gathering of the Dutch Nation in New York on March 7, 1985 with all due ceremony befitting this honorable position, and that thereafter, throughout the Centennial Year of the Holland Society of New York, he be entitled to enjoy all the tradi­tional rights, privileges, and prerogatives inherent in this election and appointment.

The investiture ceremony continued with the following eloquent remarks: ' 'Mr. Vander Veer is now, therefore, the 6th 'Dutchman' to assume this ancient and august posi­tion, following in succession: Minuit 1626-1632, Krol 1632-1633, Van Twiller 1633-1638, Kieft 1638-1647, and Stuyvesant 1647-1664.

During the tenure of Peter Stuyvesant as Director-General, it was his custom to be seated on a comfortable stuffed cushion during official meetings at the Stadthuys — a symbol of his authority and designating his superiority over the commonality who sat on wooden benches. Whenever he attended church or other official or social func­tions, it was his custom in those days to take his "Seat of Authotity" with him, and to have it ceremoniously paraded to reinforce his official dignity.

To perpetuate the traditions of our Dutch ancestors, and as an indication of our continuing regard for our heritage in this, the centennial year of our Society, we are reviving

this ancient and interesting custom from the 17th century. I now request the Captain of the Burgher Guard to

ceremoniously parade and present this 'Seat of Authority' to Director-General Vander Veer to recognize his official dignity."

Captain of the Guard James J. Ringo then officially paraded and presented to Director-General Vander Veer a bright orange, tasseled cushion to the delight and applause of the audience.

The investiture ceremony concluded with the presenta­tion to Mr. Vander Veer of a handsome plaque to com­memorate his election and appointment, and his most gracious acceptance — after which he was roundly cheered by the assembled membership and their guests.

Following the investiture, Consul-General Kramers in­troduced Dr. Romer, a distinguished scholar and authority on Dutch Colonial history — in addition to his impressive credentials as Governor of the Netherlands Antilles — who spoke to the Gathering on "The Dutch Colonial History in the Netherlands Antilles."

Governor Romer's most interesting and informative ad­dress was attentively received by the audience. It is not reported in detail here since a large portion of it has been published in this issue of the magazine.

The evening drew to a close with the presentation to Governor Romer of a commemorative plaque by President Vander Veer, followed by the benediction offered by Domine Hageman.

All in all, the "Midwinter Gathering" marked an auspicious beginning to this year of celebration!

Sponsors of the Centennial Celebration Mr. Ernest R. Acker; N. Grandby, CT Mr. David Ackerman; New Vernon, NJ Mr. James F. Ackerman; New Haven, CT Mr. Robert S. Ackerman; Poughkeepsie, NY Mr. Garret G. Ackerson, Jr.; Geneva, Switzerland Mr. David P. Amerman, Wyckoff, NJ Mrs. Richard H. Amerman; Rutherford, NJ Mr. William W. Amerman; Woodcliff Lake, NJ Mr. George E. Banta; Poughkeepsie, NY Mrs. Raymond Banta; Ridgewood, NJ Mr. Peter J. Bergen; New York, NY Mr. William B. Bergen; St. Michaels, MD Mr. Robert Blauvelt; Franklin Lakes, NJ Mr. William D. Blauvelt, Jr.; Franklin Lakes, NJ Mr. & Mrs. George Bogardus; Bethesda, MD Mr. James W. Bogart; Somerset, NJ Mr. Eugene Bogert, Jr.; Ridgewood, NJ Mr. & Mrs. Frederick W. Bogert; Paramus, NJ Mr. William R. Bogert; Cedarhurst, NY Mr. Howard G. Braisted, Jr.; Baldwin, NY Mr. Andrew W. Brink; Greensville, Ontario Mr. Samuel Brink; W. Trenton, NJ Mr. Douglas C. Buys; Fishkill, NY Dr. C. Whitney Carpenter II; Bloomsburg, PA Mr. Cameron H. Conover; Summit, NJ Mr. Clifford Crispell, Jr.; Poughkeepsie, NY Mr. John G. DeGraff; Clinton Corners, NY Mr. Harrold W. DeGroff; West Hartford, CT Mrs. Marion Wilson DeGroff; Baltimore, MD Mr. Ralph L. DeGroff, Sr.; Baltimore, MD Mr. Ralph L. DeGroff, Jr.; New York, NY Mr. Rodman DeKay, Jr.; Chatham Center, NY Mr. John O. Delamater; New York, NY

18)

Mrs. Clarence Delgado; Naples, FL Mr. Daniel A. Demarest; New York, NY Mr. James V. Damarest; Chatham Center, NY Mr. & Mrs. James V. Demarest; Deland, FL Mr. Kenneth L. Demarest, Jr.; Morristown, NJ Mr. R. Warren DeMott; Springhouse, PA Mr. Richard C. Deyo; Short Hills, NJ Mr. Ivan D. Ditmars; Burbank, CA Mr. & Mrs. Carlton Durling; Whitehouse, NJ Mr. Garret J. Garretson II; Greens Farms, CT Mr. Francis Goelet; New York, NY Mr. Kenneth E. Hasbrouck, Sr.; New Paltz, NY Dr. Andrew A. Hendricks; Lumberton, NC Mr. George W. Hoagland; Shaker Heights, OH Mr. Henry W. Hoagland, Jr.; Kennebunkport, ME Mr. James L. Hoagland; St. Louis, MO Mr. Bertrand C. Flopper; Taylorville, IL Mr. Everett Hopper; Horseheads, NY Mr. Edwin Huff; Saint George, UT Mr. George D. Hulst; Bradenton, FL Mr. Frederick L. Hyer; Brielle, NJ Mr. Phillip O. Keirstead; Tallahassee, FL Mr. William C. Keator; Fairfield, CT Mr. William A. Kirkendale; Lake Placid, FL Mr. Frederick B. Krom III; Summit, NJ Mr. Richard W. Lent; New Paltz, NY Mr. Harold M. Lowe; Orlando, FL Mr. Robert C. Lydecker; Short Hills, NJ Mr. Ernest W. Mandeville, Jr.; Hackettstown, NJ Mr. Hubert T. Mandeville; New York, NY Mr. John D. Marsellus; Fayetteville, NY Mr. John F. Marsellus; Syracuse, NY Mr. W. Dwight Nostrand; Farmingdale, NY

Centennial Sponsors {continued)

FL

FL

Mr. William L. Ostrander; Chicago, IL Maj. Gen. A.J. Poillon; Birmingham, AL Mr. John A. Pruyn; Des Moines, IA Mr. John D. Quackenbos II; Wayland, MA Mr. James E. Quackenbush; Wyckoff, NJ Mr. Jan B. Quackenbush; Montrose, PA Mr. David M. Riker; Mechanicsville, PA Mr. David L. Ringo; Palm Beach Shores, Mr. Tweed Roosevelt; Boston, MA Mr. Francis R. Schanck, Jr.; Hinsdale, IL Dr. Kenneth W. Schenck; Ft. Lauderdale, Dr. Robert R. Schenck; Chicago, IL Mr. John P. Schermerhorn; Deerfield, IL Mr. George B. Schoonmaker; New York, NY Gen. Cortlandt Van R. Schuyler; Sullivans Island, SC Mr. Alonzo B. See II; Greenwich, CT Mr. Arthur R. Smock, Jr.; Murray Hill, NJ Mr. David L. Smock; McLean, VA Mr. & Mrs. James P. Snedeker; Wilton, CT Mr. Sedgewick Snedeker; Palm Beach, FL Mr. David F. Springsteen; Greenwich, CT Rev. Louis O. Springsteen; Old Tappan, NJ Mr. & Mrs. Elmer B. Staats; Washington, DC Mr. Henry N. Staats III; Deerfield, IL Mr. Harold A. Sutphen, Jr.; Fairfield, CT Mr. Edwin L. Sutphen; Gettysburg, PA Mr. Samuel R. Sutphin; Zionsville, IN Mr. Coe D. Suydam; Urbana, IL Mr. Edwin E. Suydam, Jr.; College Point, NY Mr. William K. Teller; Leawood, KS Mr. Hendrix Ten Eyck; Beaufort, SC Mr. Hugh S. Ten Eyck; Dunedin, Fl Mr. William B. Ten Eyck; Troy, MI Mr. John S. Terhune; Teaneck, NJ Mr. William H. Tymeson; Troy, NY Mr. Kipp C. Van Aken; San Clemente, CA

Mt. Frederick H. Van Alstyne, Jr.; Oakland, NJ Mr. Herbert P. Van Blarcom; Wolfeboro, NH Mr. James M. Van Buren II; New York, NY Mr. Frank C. Van Cleef, Jr.; Manchester, CT Mr. Garret Van Cleve; "In memory of J. Allen vande Mark"; Wallkill, NY Mr. Gordon M. Vanderbeek; Bayside, NY Mr. Wynant D. Vanderpool; New York, NY Mr. Wynant D. Vanderpool; Washington, DC Mt. John H. Vanderveer; Syosset, NY Mr. & Mrs. John H. Vanderveer; Mineola, NY Mr. Richard D. Vanderwarker, Jr.; New Canaan, CT Mr. Winslow B. Van Deventet; Chevy Chase, MD Mr. Arthur W. Van Dyke; Mountainside, NJ Dr. Paul B. Van Dyke; Jekyll Island, GA Mr. Peter Van Dyke; Baltimore, MD Mr. George N. Van Fleet; Syracuse, NY Dr. James Van Fleet; Louisville, KY Mr. & Mrs. Ray L. Van Horn; Lenoir, NC Mr. Erskine B. Van Houten, Jr.; Richmond, VA Mr. Eugene M. Van Loan, Jr.; Bedford, NH Col. Blinn Van Mater; Washington, DC Mr. George C. Van Mater; Annapolis, MD Mr. Duncan Van Norderi; Palm Beach, FL Mr. Montagnie Van Norden; New York, NY Mr. Leroy Van Nosttand, Jr.; Amityville, NY Mr. Charles A. Van Patten; New Yotk, NY Mr. Isaac T. Van Patten III; Virginia Beach, VA Mr. Eugene V.B. Van Pelt; Lancaster, VA Mr. J. Charles Van Rensselaer; Wilton, NY Mr. Stanley L. Van Rensselaer; Saratoga Springs, NY Mr. Daniel S. Van Riper; Piano, TX Mr. Edwin Van Riper; Piano, TX Mr. Gerrit W. Van Schaick; Coral Gables, FL Mr. Anthony G. Van Schiack III; Woodland Hills, CA Mr. & Mrs. Melwood Van Scoyac; Sarasota, FL

Distinctive Holland Society Items Available to Members W e urge interested members to place their order

promptly. Whi le all the items described below are in stock and available for immediate delivery, supplies of some items are l imited. We cannot guarantee the prices nor p rompt delivery after our current inventory is deple ted .

Please use the order form overleaf to place your order. All prices are net including mailing and handling charges. Send your order to: The Holland Society of New York, 122 East 58th Street, New York, N .Y . 10022

Item No. Description Item No. Description

2.

Society Membership Certificate. 11" x 14" ovetprinted on lithogtaphed 1656 map of New Netherland, with col­ored depictions of Old and New Amsterdam. Please print yout name on the order form exactly as you wish it en­grossed on the certificate, and note the year you became a member.

Society lapel pin. Depicts the Dutch lion, tampant, in red on a gold background. The informal recognition insignia of the Society.

Orange lapel rosette. Traditionally presented to new membets at each annual dinner, and worn by members at Society affairs.

9.

Blazer Buttons (set of 2 large, 6 small). The Society Beaver on a blue shield (seal of New Netherland) in cloisonne enamel packaged in a plush jewelry box.

Necktie (four-in-hand). A deep blue tie upon which is superimposed the Lion of Holland.

Delft Tile imponed from Holland. 6" x 6", with delft blue border design with Society Seal in orange, centered.

On-the-tocks glasses, set of 6. lOVi oz. sham bottom glasses with the Society Seal in orange, permanently fired into the glass.

Blazer Patch. The Dutch Lion, rampant, embroidered in gold on dark blue background. Includes scroll with Society motto: "Eindelijk wordt een spruit enn boom."

ORDER FORM O N REVERSE SIDE

Cocktail napkins, package of 50. The Dutch Lion, in orange, and the Society's name printed on buff background.

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Centennial Sponsors {continued) Mr. David William Voorhees; New York, NY Mr. DeForest B. Voorhees; Houston, TX Mr. Willard P. Voorhees; Woodstock, VT Mr. Gordon D. Voorhis; Red Hook, NY Dr. John R. Voorhis III; Ridgewood, NJ Mr. John C. Vredenburgh; Vero Beach, FL Mr. Donald W. Vreeland; Summit, NJ Mt. Howatd C. Vreeland; Wellsville, NY Mr. & Mrs. James M. Vreeland; Far Hills, NJ Mr. Jerome H. Waldron; Piscataway, NJ Mt. Sherwood Waldron; Locust Valley, NY Mr. & Mrs. Jay Westervelt; Parsons, KS Dr. Carl G. Whitbeck; Hudson, NY Mt. Robett L. Willsie; Stow, NY Mt. Ftedetick A. Wyckoff, Jr.; South Yarmouth, MA Mt. Gerardus Wynkoop II; Clearwater, FL Mr. William M. Wynkoop; New York, NY Mr. Harold B. Zabriskie; Flagstaff, AZ

Mr. Melvin G. Van Sickle; Newburgh, NY Mr. DeForest Van Slyck; Washington, DC Mr. Thomas G. Van Slyke; East Walpole, MA Mr. & Mrs. William Van Tassel; Sun City Center, FL Mr. John D. Van Wagoner; McLean, VA Mr. Robert E. Van Wagoner; New York, NY Mr. Arthut D. Van Winkle; Rutherford, NJ Rev. E. Kingsland Van Winkle; West Hartford, CT Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Van Winkle; Rutherford, NJ Mr. Richard L. Van Winkle; Rutherford, NJ Mr. Robert Van Winkle; Rutherford, NJ Mr. Theodore L. Van Winkle; Ruthetfotd, NJ Mr. Thomas S. Van Winkle; Roxbury, CT Mr. E. Hawley Van Wyck III; Vienna, VA Mr. Nicholas P. Veeder; St. Louis, MO Mr. Elmer B. Vliet; Lake Bluff, IL Mr. George B. Vliet; Btidgewater, NJ Mr. & Mrs. David A. Voorhees; Strongsville, OH

Here and There with Our Members The Society extends its sympathy to Robert Van Winkle

and Peter Van Winkle on the loss of the former's wife and the latter's mother, Elizabeth Hands Van Winkle onjanuary 11, 1985.

The late Leigh K. Lydecker, former president of the Society, has been honoted by his home community of Maywood, N.J., which named the new Maywood Senior Citizens Complex in that town, Lydecker Manor. A plaque commemorating his service to that town was dedicated in Lydecker Manor by his son, Leigh K. Lydecker, Jr. The late Col. Lydecker served Maywood as Mayor and Councilman

as well as Grand Marshall of Maywood's Fourth ofjuly Parade for over fifty years.

Phillip O. Keirstead will teach communication courses to students selected from among Florida's nine state univer­sities. His courses will be offered at the Florida State Univer­sity System London Study Center during the fall semester of 1985.

Howard G. Hageman was elected a Trustee of Histone Cherry Hill in Albany, N.Y. A former Van Rensselaer house, Historic Cherry Hill is now a public museum.

ORDER FORM Make check payable to: The Holland Society (shipping and handling included in price).

SHIP TO: NAME

(Please STREET ADDRESS P r i n t )

CITY / STATE ZIP Complete next line if ordering Membership Certificate

Full name to be engrossed .Date joined

ITEM NO.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

DESCRIPTION

Membership Certificate

Society Lapel Pin

Orange Lapel Rosette

Blazer Patch

Blazer Button (set)

Necktie

Delft Tile

8. On-the-tocks Glasses (set 6)

9. | Cocktail Napkins (pkg. 50)

QUANTITY UNIT PRICE

$25.00

15.00

3.00

15.00

25.00

10.00

7.50

18.00

7.50

Total Amount Enclosed:

AMOUNT

% (20)

Society Potomac Branch

Branch President George Bogardus reports that at a luncheon meeting on November 27, 1984 plans were discussed for special events to be held during the Centen­nial Year of the Society. Several possibilities were suggested, including joining with the South River Branch in their pro­posed cruise on Deleware Bay during which the former Dutch settlements and trading posts in that region would be featured. Consideration was also given to a suggestion by Willis Van Devanter, a professional art appraiser, of a guided tour of Winterhur museum and gardens with em­phasis on the Dutch colonial influence on early American architechture, furniture and furnishings.

Branch member Winslow B. Van Devanter of Chevy Chase, Maryland, announced that he had given "an exten­sive collection of early issues of de Halve Maen" to the Georgetown University library in Washington D.C. where they will be available to Society members and others.

On December 9th, branch members, wives and guests met at the museum of the U.S. Naval Academy in An­napolis to view an exhibition of early Dutch maps and paint­ings of Dutch naval encounters in the Anglo-Dutch wars of the seventeenth century sponsored by the Netherlands Information Office, later meeting for luncheon at a nearby restaurant.

December Trustees Meeting The quarterly meeting of the trustees held in New York

City's Union Club on December 13, 1984 featured dis­cussions and decisions concerned with, among other mat­ters, events of the coming Centennial Year of the Society, minor changes to be made in the wording of two articles of the Society's Constitution and the 1985 budget.

Following the statement by President John Vander Veer that word has been received that no member of the royal family of The Netherlands could be obtained as medalist for 1985, Trustee Peter G. Vosburgh of the Centennial Committee offered other candidates headed by Dr. Jan W. Schulte Nordholt, eminent Dutch-American historian, at the University of Leyden. It was agreed that Dr. Schulte Nordholt should be invited to receive the Medal for Distinguished Achievement at the 1985 banquet.

Publicity for the forthcoming events next year was presented by former trustee Robert E. Van Wagoner, co­ordinator of Centennial Publicity. He outlined a plan to publicize and call to the attention of the media—news­papers, radio and television — the various events to take place not only in New York but at meetings of the bran­ches of the Society as well. In order to do this, he pointed out, it would require the cooperation of the branch presidents in contacting local media in their areas.

Despite the absence of the Chairman of the Aims and Purposes Committee, Wynant D. Vanderpool, Jr., due to illness, his report was read recommending minor word changes in Article II of the Constitution and the addition of two committees, those of Law and Historic Publications, to the list of Standing Committees listed in Article VI of the By-Laws. The changes in the Constitution will be sub­mitted to the membership for approval as specified in the Constitution. The Standing Committee additions were

Activities made by the trustees in accordance with Article XIII of the By-Laws.

Reporting for the Membership Committee, Chairman William B. Deyo,Jr., proposed ways in which to attract and encourage prospective members to join the Society. He noted that a proposal had been made some time ago to place in each issue of de Halve Maen a two-part return post card, half of which would be for the purpose of soliciting poten­tial members' names and the other half of which would be used to solicit news items of members. He urged the place­ment of such a card in each issue of de Halve Maen. Addi­tionally, he suggested that, since branches are perhaps the most important factor in the future membership of the Society, each branch should appoint a Membership chair­man who "would work with the Membership Committee on issues related to membership and have the advantage of being able to work in the geographical area where such new membership will be located."

To assist the Membership Committee, the Committee on History and Traditions is preparing a new booklet on the background of the Society which would be included in the packet of materials sent out to prospective members. Chairman William Alrich announced that a new text for this booklet has been prepared which will also have a new cover design with the Society's seal as the main motif. The text is to be submitted to selected members for review and editing before being printed. Chairman Alrich also reported that plans are being completed for the History & Traditions dinner at the Union League Club next September.

Banquet Committee Chairman Harry Van Dyke noted that despite limited attendance, the 1984 banquet was a successful affair. A report by Branches Chairman John R. Voorkis III highlighted the fact that 22 branch meetings were held in 1984 as compared to half that number in 1983. Plans to re-activate the Connecticut-Westchester County, N.Y. Branch and the Pacific Coast Branch which have been dormant are now under way. He also noted that the Mid-West Branch has been regularly scheduling and holding two meetings per year with interest and attendance being steady.

The Committee on Genealogy presented the following applicants for membership who were approved by vote of the trustees:

Edmund Oliver Fountaine, Darien, Connecticut John Kerr Lott, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Peter Van Cleave, Chicago, Illinois Donald Kerr Vanneman III, Surrey, England

David Hossack Van Winkle, New Providence, New Jersey Thomas S. Van Winkle, Mystic, Connecticut

Thomas Gerard Voorhees, Amityville, New York

Pacific Coast Branch Due to the active efforts of Vice President Paul H. Davis

of San Diego, California, the Pacific Coast Branch of the Society is being revived with promising expectations of put­ting the Dutch back into action on the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

"The California Branch of the Holland Society of New York," writes Vice-President Davis, "is making steady pro­gress to the goals and validity of a permanent branch. Two mailings were made in Southern California to approximately

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twenty-four eligible members. A positive response was received from fifteen of the prospects. A telephone calling was made to twelve of these prospects for a meeting. . . eight confirmations were received and four members attended an informal get-together. A definite comradery was established between those in attendance.. . our existence is being broadcast."

Pacific Coast Branch members can get in touch with Vice-President Davis at 166 Beech Tree Drive, Encinitas, California 92024.

Florida Branch Centennial Luncheon Lighthouse Point Yacht Club in Lighthouse Point,

Florida, was the setting for the highly successful luncheon of the Florida Branch on March 9th where over thirty members and guests gathered to mark the Centennial Year of the Society.

Branch President Edward V. Ditmars of Boynton Beach who arranged and directed the popular social affair was joined at the luncheon by two Past Presidents of the Soci­ety, Thomas M. Van der Veer and Gerrit W. Van Schaick, a former trustee, Hendrick Booraem, Jr., Trustee John R. Voorhis III and former branch president and first organizer of the branch, R. Allen Durling as well as former branch presidents Paul Van Dyke, J.D. Van Atten, and Col. William T. Van Atten.

A unique feature of the occasion was the souvenir Centennial program prepared especially for the occasion by President Ditmars. Printed on appropriate orange paper with illustrations from the Society's banquet programs of 1887-1889, together with a reproduction of the menu ("spij-skaart") of the 1889 banquet and the seven formal toasts offered at that affair, it also contained the luncheon menu and program as well as a current list of the names of the branch members.

Following the blessing given by the Rev. Larry Lenow, toasts were offered by President Ditmars to Her Majesty, the Queen of the Netherlands and to the President of the United States by Trustee Voorhis. President Ditmars called upon Past Presidents Van der Veer and Van Schaick and Past Branch President Durling to greet those present before asking Branch Vice-President Theodore P. Schoonmaker to introduce Vice Admiral (U.S.N. Ret.) Edward N. Parker who gave the audience an account of his experiences on ac­tive service during World War II, particularly during the Battle of the Java Sea, noting that he had great admiration for the Dutch through his contacts with them during the war and on two trips to Holland. Vice Admiral Parker, who had been honored by the Dutch government with its highest military award, was given a plaque by President Ditmars.

In a mark of tribute to President Ditmars, the Florida Branch voted unanimously to declare the occasion of the luncheon celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Society on March 9, 1985 to be "Ted Ditmars Day." All those pres­ent received, in addition to the souvenir program, tiles marking the Centennial Year of the Society. In addition to those already named, the following were present: Mrs. Edward V. Ditmars, Mrs. Theodore P. Schoonmaker, Mrs. Thomas M. Van der Veer, Mrs. Gerrit W. Van Schaick, Mrs. Paul Van Dyke, Mrs. Edward N. Parker, Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Van Atten, Mr. and Mrs. John C. Vredenburgh, Mr. and Mrs. James B. Vredenburgh IV, Mrs. John R. Voorhis III,

Rev. and Mrs. Larry Lenow, Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Ban-ta, Mr. and Mrs. Melwood Van Scoyoc, Mr. and Mrs. William Van Tassel, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Killian, Mr. Frank Boker.

March Trustees Meeting Despite fair, mild weather less than half of the trustees

attended the meeting of the Society's officers and trustees on March 14th at the Union Club in New York. President Vander Veer expressed some concern about the poor attend­ance, pointing out that if a trustee does not attend three consecutive meetings he is considered to have resigned that position.

In his report, Treasurer John Pruyn compared estimated budget figures of the past year of 1984 with the actual in­come and disbursements for the same year which revealed that the anticipated income and expenditures were higher than forecast thus showing a surplus for the year. He also reported that funds from a gift by Mrs. Louise Bogert, in connection with the liquidation of the Bogert & Carlough Company, in the amount of $91,000 has been transferred to the Endowment Fund.

A letter from Past President Garret Van Schaick to the Executive Committee was read in which he suggested that some funds be allotted to the various branches to encourage greater activity on their part. Wirh a recommendation from the Executive Committee that this funding of branches be favorably considered, it was agreed that the proposition be turned over for further study and action to the Committee on Branches. The Executive Committee also reported that the history of the Society being prepared for issuance to members was making good progress with publication con­sidered likely by June of this year. The print order will be limited to 1500 copies and extra copies will be priced at $25.00.

At the recommendation of Branches Committee Chair­man John R. Voorhis III, the trustees created a Georgis Branch of the Society which will be headed by H. John Ouderkirk of Atlanta. Other activity among the branches included the revitalization of the Pacific Coast Branch under the direction of Paul H. Davis and a survey currently being conducted by the Rev. Robert D. Terhune of Houston to see if enough members are interested in forming a Texas Branch of the Society.

The resignation of Linda Roelofs as librarian for the Society has been received by the trustees and the Library Committee Chairman Robert Nostrand is currently seeking a replacement for Miss Roelofs. Chairman Nostrand also an­nounced that the library recently received a gift of $5,000 from former trustee Robert G. Goelet to be used for the purchase and re-binding of books together with other necessary library up keep of the Society's collection.

In connection with the Centennial Year, Chairman Ar­thur Smock noted that thirty-four members, wives and guests had been on the January cruise and hoped that those who attended the "Midwinter Gathering" at the St. Regis would enjoy the affair. Further news on the Centennial Year events will be sent to all members, he said, during April. During the Centennial Church Service weekend May 4 and 5 in New Brunswick, N.J., the Society will dedicate a plaque on the Dutch Document Room in Gardner Sage Li­brary of the New Brunswick Seminary to mark "the contri­bution of the Domines to the life of our nation."

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The following applicants for membership were presented by the Committee of Genealogy and approved by the trustees:

Richard M. Denton, Medfield, Massachusetts Alan M. Deyoe, Jr., Trumbull, Connecticut

George C. Dbois, New Wind, New York Donald N. Haring, Iselin, New Jersey

Vinton P. Ostrander, Sr., Sun City, Arizona Richard A. Scudder, Cherry Hill, New Jersey

Paul H. Sniffen, Toms River, New Jersey Gardner W. Van Scoyoc, Alexandria, Virginia George T. Voorhees, Wilmington, Delaware

Annual Meeting At the one-hundredth meeting of the Holland Society

of New York, 120 members gathered at New York City's Union Club on April 8th, the day after Easter Sunday, to celebrate the occasion and enjoy the fellowship of each other. The meeting not only drew a good representation from the metropolitan area but from other areas of membership in­cluding the Midwest and Florida.

Following the business meeting at which the regular slate of officers and trustees, as proposed by the nominating com­mittee, was elected and the amendments to the Constitu­tion and By-Laws, which had been circulated to the member­ship, were adopted by a unanimous vote. Reports of the Secretary, Louis O. Springsteen, and the Treasurer, John A. Pruyn, were also approved and were followed by presenta­tion of rosettes to new members by President John H. Vander Veer. Following the reading of the necrology Domine Hageman offered a prayer for those members who had pass­ed away during the past year.

forth applause and laughter from the assembled diners. As is customary, toasts were offered to Her Majesty, the Queen of the Netherlands, to the President of the United States and to the late Frank H. Vedder whose bequest to the Socie­ty provides the dinner for members.

Following dinner, President Vander Veer presented the Distinguished Achievement Medal for Members to the Rev. Dr. Howard G. Hageman, citing his service to the Society not only as Domine but also as editor of de Halve Maen. In responding to the presentation, Dr. Hageman paid tribute to the late Dr. Ernest R. Palen, who preceded Dr. Hageman as Domine, and to the late Richard H. Amerman who had set high standards for de Halve Maen as a magazine of colo­nial Dutch studies thus making people aware that there was "something more than 500 miles of wilderness between Boston and Williamsburg."

Everyone assembled in an adjoining room for after din­ner camaraderie and post-prandial cheese and Dutch beer in handsome steins decorated with the seal of the Society. Each member was invited to take a stein with him as a souvenir of the meeting. All those present agreed it was a most en­joyable meeting.

Old Bergen Branch Meeting The spring meeting of the Old Bergen branch, the first

of two held annually by this branch to which members and their male guests only are invited, took place on April 24th at Banta's Steak and Stein restaurant in Nanuet, Rockland County, N.Y.

Preceding dinner those present enjoyed a social hour dur­ing which old acquaintances were renewed and new ones forg­ed. After a blessing by the Rev. William J.F. Lydecker, the two dozen members and guests present enjoyed a steak din­ner which was followed by the regular business meeting of the branch presided over by Branch President Francis A. Goetschius. A special event of the evening was the award of special scrolls to Trustee Emeritus Wilfred B. Talman and Trustee Frederick W. Bogert honoring their years of service to the branch and to the society. The award to Trustee Emeritus Talman, who was unable to be present, was accepted for him by Trustee Bogert and will be personally presented to him at a later date. President Goetschius also called upon the Rev. Louis O. Springsteen, Secretary of the Holland Socie­ty, to give a brief summary of the events that took place at the annual meeting of the society two weeks previously.

Following the report of the chairman of the nominating committee, Leigh K. Lydecker, Jr., the following were elected as branch officers for the coming year: President, Francis A. Goetschius; First Vice-President, Albert G. Bogert; Second Vice-President, Rev. WilliamJ.F. Lydecker; Secretary,J. War­ren Terhune; Treasurer, William D. Blauvelt, Jr. and Assis­tant Treasurer, C. Spencer Terhune. President Goetschius asked for suggestions from branch members for a place to hold the autumn meeting to which the ladies are invited, declaring that the officers and advisory committee of the branch would welcome such suggestions.

In addition to those already mentioned, the following members and guests were present: Bruce E. Amerman, William W. Amerman, David Banta, Peter G. Banta, Robert W. Blauvelt, Eugene Bogert, Jr., Robert W. DeGroat, Eugene L. Kuykendall, Paul M. Kipp, Leigh K. Lydecker III, Mark Lydecker, Kenneth Terhune, Henry Van Wormer and Charles W. Vreeland.

The customary parading of the beaver, that symbol of the commerce of New Netherland, took place as a prelude to dinner being served. This year, an additional rite was added when a bright orange tasseled cushion was formally brought in and presented to President Vander Veer as indicative of the position of "Honorary Director-General of New Netherland" a title bestowed upon him a month previous at the Mid-Winter Gathering. This cushion recalls the custom of Director-General Peter Stuyvesant who sat upon a similar one during official functions to denote his superior authority. The presentation of the cushion and explanation brought

In Memoriam SIMON HART

Fellow

Simon Hart, a Fellow of the Holland Society of New York since 1979, died at the age of 70 years on September 27, 1981 in the Netherlands. Dr. Hart was one of six fellows elected by the trustees of the Society in 1979 following the creation of that title in 1978 to be conferred upon those scholars "who have contributed significantly to the fur­therance of the objects of the Society."

Born March 24, 1911 at Zaandam, North Holland, Dr. Hart, following academic training as an archivist, became associated with the Municipal Archives of the City of Amsterdam in 1930 and was made an appointed official of that body seven years later. He was successively promoted through the ranks being named Assistant Director in 1961 and Director in 1974, a position which he held until his retirement in 1976. He was given the degree of Litt. D. by Wagner College, Staten Island, N.Y., in 1952 and received the Nethetlands Order of Orange-Nassau from his native country.

The range and depth of Dr. Hart's research on the seventeenth-century Dutch in America became first ap­parent with the publication in English of his book, The Prehistory of the New Netherland Company: Amsterdam Notarial Records of the first Dutch voyages to the Hudson (1959). In addition to other published articles, Dr. Hart was the author of a number of studies appearing in de Halve Maen including a four-part series "The Dutch and North America 1600-1650" and a two-part account of "The City-Colony of New Amstel on the Delaware."

Strongly interested in the Holland Society's work and purposes, Dr. Hart had long been helpful in responding to inquiries from Holland Society members in regard to the seventeenth-century Dutch during his long tenure. His mastery of the archival records and extraordinary skill in deciphering the Old Dutch script in which they were writ­ten frequently provided assistance to those seeking to ex­pand their knowledge of both the Netherlands and New Netherland in the seventeenth century.

MICHAEL E. CADMUS

Michael Edward De Cuyper Cadmus, a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1956 died at the age of 56 years on September 14, 1983 in Houston, Texas. Descended from Thomas Fredericksen who came to New Amsterdam about 1649, he was born June 6, 1927 in Ham­burg, Germany, the son of Edward G. Cadmus and Emma M. Vidal. Mr. Cadmus was educated at the Gelehrtenschule Des Johanneums, Hamburg, Germany and the School of Commerce, Accounts and Finance of New York University. His early business career included positions with Maelssen & Lyon, tea importers, the Norddeutsche Bank A.G. of Hamburg and the Rheinisch-Westfaelische Bank A.G. of Dusseldorf, Germany. Later he joined the international banking department of the Manufacturers Trust Co. of New York, serving as its representative in Hamburg and Frankfort, Germany. Mr. Cadmus became a partner in and president of a private institution, the Interamerican Bank of Nassau in the Bahama Islands which was also his place of residence at the time of his death. He also held the posi­

tion of Honorable Consul for Austria in the Bahama Islands. He is survived by his wife, the former Margaret De

Friebeisz, and two sons, Henry De Cuyper Cadmus of Bronxville, N.Y., and Michael De Cuyper Cadmus of New York City. Services were held in Vienna, Austria, with in­terment taking place in that city.

EARL R. BLOOMINGDALE

Earl Roy Bloomingdale, a member of the Holland Soci­ety of New York since 1958, died at the age of 74 years on November 4, 1984 in Overland Park, Kansas. Descended from Cornells Maessen (the descendants of Maas, one of the sons of Cornells, took the name of Bloomingdale) who came to Rensselaerswyck in 1631, returned to Holland in 1634 and came back again to Rensselaerswyck with his wife in 1636, Mr. Bloomingdale was born July 30, 1910 in Pavillion, Genessee County, N.Y., the son of Roy F. Bloomingdale and Cora B. Mook. He was a graduate of New York State College for Teachers in Albany, N.Y., from which he re­ceived his B.A. degree. For over 30 years Mr. Bloomingdale was employed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, starting as a food inspector with that government agency and later a chemist. He had been posted to agency offices in Cincinnati, Ohio, Chicago, Illinois and Kansas City, Missouri, during his career, retiring in 1979 to live in Overland Park, Kansas.

He is survived by his wife, the former Janice Carter, two sons, John H. and Mark A., both of Overland Park and one grandson. A memorial service was held November 7, 1984 in the Overland Park Presbyterian Church.

FREDERICK A. WYCKOFF, JR.

Frederick Albert Wyckoff, Jr., a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1978, died at the age of 50 years in New York City on November 13, 1984. Descended from Willem Willemsen who came to New Amsterdam in 1657 (Mr. Wyckoff's ancestor, Johannes Williamson, a grandson of the original emigrant, Willem Willemsen, changed his name to Wyckoff following his marriage in 1742 at the re­quest of a childless maternal uncle), Mr. Wyckoff was born August 17, 1934 in New York City, the son of Frederick A. Wyckoff and Helen O. Bitler. His father and grandfather were members of the Holland Society.

A graduate of the University of Vermont with the Bachelor of Arts degree, Mr. Wyckoff entered the trade publications field becoming Vice-President and Associate Publisher of Restaurant Business. Later he owned and was the President of Northeast Advertising Sales Associates, Inc., in South Yarmouth, Massachusetts, where he lived. He had served for ten years as President of the Wyckoff House and Association, Inc., a family organization representing de­scendants of Pieter Claesen Wyckoff who, in 1652, built the Dutch farmhouse that bears his name in the East Flat-bush section of Brooklyn, N.Y. Presented to the City of New York, the Pieter Claesen Wyckoff house was recently restored and furnished.

Mr. Wyckoff is survived by his wife, the former Karol Bowker, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick A. Wyckoff, Sr., two brothers, Robert Wyckoff and Peter Wyckoff, an adopted son, Frederick A. Wyckoff III and an adopted

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daughter, Kristin B. Wyckoff. Funeral services were held at the South Dennis Congregational Church, South Dennis, Massachusetts, with burial taking place in the Quivet Creek Cemetery, East Dennis, Massachusetts.

IRWIN L. TAPPEN

Irwin Logan Tappen, a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1927, died at the age of 84 years in Yonkers, N.Y., on November 7, 1984. Descended from Juriaen Teunissen Tappen who settled at Fort Orange (Albany, N.Y.) in 1652, he was born January 3, 1900 in Jersey City, N.J., the son of Frank M. Tappen and Louisa A. Jones.

A graduate of Princeton University in the Class of 1921, Mr. Tappen later received his law degree from the New York Law School. He joined the legal firm of Humes, Andrews, Botzow and Wagner of New York City, practicing law throughout his career, retiring only a short time before his death. He was a devoted member of the Society for over fifty years, serving as its Secretary from 1952 to 1958. In 1977 on the occasion of his 50th anniversary as a member, he was made an Honorary Life member of the Society. He had also been a member of the Second Reformed Church of Hackensack, N.J., for more than 60 years.

Mr. Tappen's wife, the former Anne Crowell and a daughter, Louisa, predeceased him. He is survived by a son, Frank, of Plantation, Florida, a daughter, Dorothy (Mrs. Seymour) Davis, of Riverdale, N.Y., and four grand­children. A memorial service was held November 11, 1984 at the Second Reformed Church in Hackensack. Interment had taken place the day before in the Hackensack Cemetery.

WILLIAM A. KIRKENDALE

William Arthur Kirkendale, a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1979, died at the age of 71 years on November 15, 1984 in Lake Placid, Florida. Descended from Jacob Luyerszen who came to New Netherland in 1646, Mr. Kirkendale was born May 1, 1913 in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of George Kirkendale and Maude Rowntree. He was educated in the Cleveland public schools and at the Ken­tucky Military Institute, Lyndon, Kentucky. A pioneer in radio broadcasting in Cincinnati, Ohio, Mr. Kirkendale was the program director for the Scripps-Howard chain of radio stations from 1931 to 1941. He later was self-employed as a manufacturer's representative in the paint and allied industries.

Becoming interested in his family's genealogy, Mr. Kirkendale devoted thirty years researching and document­ing ten generations of the Kuykendall-Kirkendale family. He also compiled genealogies of the Rowntree and King families. His article on "Jacob Luyerszen," progenitor of the Kuykendall-Kirkendale family in New Netherland ap­peared in de Halve Maen in 1983. A resident of Douglaston, N.Y., he had moved to Lake Placid, Florida in 1982.

He is survived by his wife, the former Rosalie King, a son, William K. Kirkendale of Palos Verdes, California, a daughter, Sally J. Kirkendale of Lake Placid, Florida and four grandchildren. Private services were held in his home in Lake Placid November 18, 1984.

REV. GEORGE E. VANDERPOEL

George Edward Vanderpoel, a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1943 died at the age of 64 years

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in Garden City, N.Y., on December 9, 1984. Descended from Wynant Gerritse Vanderpoel who came to New Netherland in 1644, he was born March 13, 1920 in Brooklyn, N.Y., the son of Edward Vanderpoel and Edna C. Raab. Rev. Vanderpoel was a graduate of Wheaton Col­lege, Wheaton, Illinois in 1941 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He was educated for the ministry at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from which he received his Bachelor of Theology degree in 1944. After leaving the seminary, he was commissioned chaplain in the United States Navy, a position which he held for twenty-five years, retiring August 1, 1969- The same year he became the pastor of the Sovereign Grace Baptist Church in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Later he moved to Garden City, N.Y., serving as minister of the Church of the Garden there until his death.

Rev. Vanderpoel is survived by his wife, the former Elizabeth Alkire, two sons, Peter Vanderpoel of San Diego, California and the Rev. Dr. David Vanderpoel of Garden City, N.Y., both members of the Society, a daughter, Deborah, a brother, Rev. John Vanderpoel, two sisters, Ruth Garver and May McDowell and two grandchildren. Services were held on December 11, 1984 at the Church in the Garden, Garden City, N.Y.

HORACE F. BANTA

Horace Ferris Banta, a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1934, died at the age of 89 years on January 6, 1985 in Hackensack, New Jersey. Descended from Epke Jacobsen (Banta) who came to New Netherland in 1659, settling first in Flushing, N.Y., and later moving across the North river into Bergen County, N.J., Mr. Banta was born October 18, 1895 the son of George Banta and Coralette B. Ferris. He became an honorary life member of the Society last year after fifty years of annual membership.

Educated in the public schools of Hackensack, Mr. Banta enrolled in the New York Law School following graduation from high school. He received the degree of L.L.B. in 1918. During World War I he served in the U.S. Navy Signal Corps with the rank of Lieutenant (j.g.). Shortly after start­ing the practice of law in Hackensack, Mr. Banta and a fellow attorney, Walter Winne, established the firm of Winne & Banta which was active for over sixty years, later expanding into the firm of Winne, Banta, Rizzi, Hetherington & Basralian in which Mr. Banta was the senior partner prior to his retirement in 1984.

He had held several city and county positions including Bergen County adjuster, assistant to the Bergen County Council, was a member of the Draft Appeal Board in World War II, attorney for the City of Hackensack and chairman of the Bergen County Welfare Board for 33 years. Mr. Banta, who was known familiarly to his associates as "Jim," was a past president of the Bergen County Bar Association, a director of and counsel for the Polifly Savings & Loan Association and a founder of the New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame in Teterboro, N.J., and was the recipient of its Distinguished Service Medal in 1982. He was an organizer and charter member of the Harry B. Doremus American Legion Post of Hackensack, a member of Pioneer Masonic Lodge, the Hackensack Elks Lodge and the Hackensack Rotary Club. A former president of the Oritani Field Club in Hackensack, he belonged to the Areola Country Club

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in Paramus and had served for more than 25 years on the board of trustees of the Hackensack Golf Club. In 1975 the Bergen Council of the Boy Scouts of America honored Mr. Banta with its award for distinguished service.

A life-long member of the Second Reformed Church of Hackensack, Mr. Banta, whose great-grandfather had been one of the organizers of the church in 1855, also served on the consistory as deacon and later as an elder.

He is survived by his wife, the former Alice E. Evertz, two sons, Peter G. and David H., both members of the Society, and eight grandchildren, three of whom, David B. Banta, Eric G. Banta and James F. Banta, are life members of the Society. Another son, Bruce F. Banta, who was also a member of the Society, predeceased his father in 1983. A memorial service was held on January 9, 1985 at the Second Reformed Church in Hackensack. Interment was in Hackensack Cemetery.

JANSEN H. VAN ETTEN

Jansen Hixson Van Etten, a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1947 died at the age of 70 years onjanuary 12, 1985 in Englewood, N.J. Descended from Jacob Jansen Van Etten who was in Wiltwyck (Kingston) N.Y., by 1664, he was born November 25, 1914 in Yonkers, N.Y., the son of John DeCamp Van Etten, a former presi­dent of the Society, and Jane L. Seaman.

Educated in the public schools of Yonkers, Mr. Van Etten started his business career in his father's firm, Vansul & Company of Englewood, N.J., later becoming the owner and president of it. In I960 he sold the company to the Interchemical Corporation, assuming the position of marketing manager with the latter firm until his retirement in 1970. During World War II he attained the rank of First Lieutenant while serving in an anti-aircraft artillery unit in the European Theater of Operations and was awarded the Bronze Star medal. He was active in the Society having been a trustee and vice-president as well as president of the Old Bergen Branch from 1961 to 1963.

He was also actively engaged in local community affairs in connection with the Englewood, N.J. Hospital, of which he was not only a trustee but also a volunteer worker. Mr. Van Etten was a member of the Englewood Club, the Knickerbocker Country Club of Tenafly and of the First Presbyterian Church of Tenafly. He is survived by his wife, the former Grayce E. Payne, and a son, Jansen H. Van Etten. Funeral services were held onjanuary 15, 1985 at the First Presbyterian Church of Tenafly with interment following in Kensico Cemetery, Valhalla, N.Y.

J. RAYMOND DeRIDDER

Jacob Raymond DeRidder, a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1951 died at the age of 81 years onjanuary 14, 1985 at Red Bank, N.J. Descended from Evert DeRidder who was in Albany before 1683 and appears to have come to New Netherland some time before that year, he was born September 23, 1902 in Schuylerville, N.Y., the son of Jacob V. DeRidder and Martha Williams. A promi­nent automobile dealer in New Jersey's Monmouth County, Mr. DeRidder was the founder and president of DeRidder Co., Inc. in Red Bank until 1952 when, after selling his Buick dealership, he became an officer and director of Electronics Assistance Corp. and of Radiofone Corp. in Point Pleasant, N J. He was also a director of the Middletown Banking Co.

He had served as president and trustee of the New Jersey Automotive Trade Association, was a past president of the Community Y.M.C.A. of Red Bank, vice-president of the Red Bank Chamber of Commerce and the Lions Club there as well as a trustee of the Riverview Hospital in Red Bank and chairman of the Monmouth County Republican Club's finance committee.

He is survived by his wife, the former Jean Budington, a son, Raymond B. DeRidder of Red Bank, a daughter, Mrs. Barbara D. Cottrell of Red Bank, a sister, Mrs. Harriet Schmidt of Saratoga Springs, N.Y. and three grandchildren.

LAURENCE V. BOGERT

Laurence Van Houten Bogert, a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1940 died at the age of 82 years January 16, 1985 in Kingston, N.Y. Descended from Cor­nells Jansen Bongeart who was in Midwout (Brooklyn) by the year 1651, Mr. Bogert was born January 3, 1903 in Brooklyn, N.Y., the son of Samuel V.W. Bogert and Julie Bickel. Mr. Bogert, a graduate of Yale University in the class of 1924, became an insurance broker in New York follow­ing college, later moving to Kingston, N.Y., where he was affiliated with the Shatemuck Realty Co. In 1948 he found­ed L.V. Bogert, Inc., a Kingston oil distributorship, opera­ting it until his retirement in 1966.

Familiarly known as Larry, he was interested in local bi­cycle racing as an active member of the Wiltwyck Velo Club. He is credited with being one of those who established the annual Stockade Criterion bicycle race in Kingston in 1982. A past president of the Kingston Rotary Club, Mr. Bogert was an ardent member of that organization earning the title of "Mr. Rotary" from his associates and friends. He was also a member of Kingston Lodge 10 F & AM, of The Rondout Commandery 52, Knights Templar and of the Ulster County Shrine Club of Cyprus Temple, serving the latter as both secretary and Imperial Representative.

Mr. Bogert's wife, the former Flora Richmond, predeceased him in 1972. Surviving are his daughter, Mrs. Lars (Nancy) Lorentzen of Far Rockaway, N.Y., and two granddaughters. Funeral services with cremation took place privately at the family's convenience followed by interment in Trinity Churchyard Cemetery, Hewlett, N.Y.

ALICE P. KENNEY Fellow

Alice Patricia Kenney, a Fellow of the Holland Society of New York since 1979, died at the age of 47 years on February 4, 1985 in Albany, N.Y. Dr. Kenney was one of six Fellows originally elected by the trustees of the Society in 1979 following the creation of that designation in 1978 to recognize scholars making ' 'significant contributions'' to the history, traditions and genealogy of the Dutch colonial period in North America. Her death creates a second loss in the ranks of the Society Fellows, Dr. Simon Hart, former Archivist of the City of Amsterdam, having died September 27, 1981.

Born May 1, 1937 in Schenectady, N.Y., Dr. Kenney's interest in New Netherland history began while she was a child. She received the degree of Bachelor of Arts from Mid­dle bury College and graduate degrees of Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy from Columbia University. A member of Phi Beta Kappa, the national honor society, she was the recipient of several awards including the Dixon Ryan Fox

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grant of the New York State Historical Association and an Award of Merit from the American Association of State & Local History.

Dr. Kenney became an instructor in the Department of History at Cedar Crest College, Allentown, Pa., in 1961, later advancing to a full Professorship and becoming chair­man of that college's Department of History. A dedicated scholar devoted to New Netherland, its people and its culture, she was a regular contributor to the Society's publication, de Halve Maen. In addition, she was the author of four books: History of the American Family (1967), The Gansevoorts of Albany (1969), Albany: Crossroads of Liberty (1977) and Stubborn for Liberty: The Dutch in New York (1975). She was a member of the Albany Institute of History and Art and of the Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church of Albany and lived in Delmar, N.Y.

Surviving Dr. Kenney is her mother, Marjorie Wake Kenney of Delmar, N.Y. Private services were conducted at Clifton Park Center Baptist Cemetery.

WILLIAM C. KEATOR, JR.

William Chauncey Keator,Jr., a member of the Holland Society of New York since 1937 died at the age of 81 years on March 22, 1985 at Vero Beach, Florida. Descended from Melchert Claesen (Keator) who came to New Amsterdam prior to 1671, he was born August 13, 1903 in Wayne, Pennsylvania, the son of William C. Keator and Caroline A. Reed. Mr. Keator was a graduate of the Phillips Andover Academy and Yale University, Class of 1928. He also did post-graduate study at the Wharton School of Finance of the University of Pennsylvania and at Georgetown University.

John Romeyn Brodhead (continued) unkind remarks about their ancestors, but Yorkers were unreservedly delighted. Brodhead had given them the first scholarly history of New York in the seventeenth century, and it reflected the same thorough research and skillful in­tegration of a multitude of details that had characterized volume one. "Mr. Brodhead's ample acquaintance with authorities new and old,'' wrote a sympathetic reviewer, ' 'and his logical discrimination and fairness, enabled him to set the truth forth in a convincing light." This second volume confirmed Brodhead's status as the leading historian of New York. Unfortunately, he did not live to complete his pro­jected work. In early May 1873, while working on volume three, he contracted pneumonia and died within the week. A communicant of the Dutch Reformed Church, Brodhead was buried in Trinity Cemetery, where so many distinguished New Yorkers have been laid to rest.

Brodhead's work remained unfinished, but his legacy to historical scholarship is impressive nonetheless. More than any other single figure, Brodhead laid the foundation for the historiography of early New York. Consider for a mo­ment his accomplishments. Those eighty volumes of transcripts he collected in Europe became the core collection of the state's colonial documents. Having performed that remarkable feat of historical research and collection, he pro­ceeded to write the first scholarly and comprehensive account of Dutch New Netherland and English New York in the seventeenth century. His sympathy for the Dutch and his antipathy for the British and New Englanders notwithstand­ing, Brodhead, who wrote early American history long before

His business career was centered in the insurance brokerage field in which he started with the Insurance Co. of North America, moving to Parker & Co. of Philadelphia and the Providence Mutual Life Insurance Co. before becoming Secretary and Treasurer of the Fairfield (Connec­ticut) Land & Title Co. In 1940 he established the insurance brokerage firm of Keator and Co. of which he was presi­dent and chairman. He retired in 1981 and moved to Florida.

During World War II, Mr. Keator served in the U.S. Army Corps, attaining the rank of Captain. An active par­ticipant in community affairs, he was a member of the Board of Directors of Bridgeport Hospital and chairman of the Development Committee; a former chairman of the Fair­field Town Board of Finance, and former director of the board of Fairfield Memorial Library, as well as past com­modore of the Pequot Yacht Club of Southport, Conn., he was a former member of the board of governors of the Coun­try Club of Fairfield, a member of the St. Nicholas Society of New York and of the Union Club of New York. In Vero Beach, Mr. Keator was a member of the Riomar Country Club.

Mr. Keator is survived by his wife, the former Lucy R. Medbury, a son, Gerrit M. Keator of Pomfret, Conn., a member of the Holland Society, two daughters, Mrs. Jane K. Talamini of Mill Valley, Calif., and Mrs. M. Gaylord Ramseur of Avon, Conn., two brothers, S. Reed Keator of Pompano Beach, Fla., and Frederic R. Keator of West Chester, Pa., a sister, Mrs. Marion R. Foster of Fairfield, Conn., and six grandchildren. Following cremation, his re­mains were scattered at sea.

it became the captive of the academic profession, was a thorough scholar, dedicated to searching out all the facts and reporting them accurately. A few years after his death, a writer in Scnbner's Monthly made an assessment that is as ap­propriate now as it was then: "Mr. Brodhead had a lofty ideal of an historian, and he had no mean success in realizing it. His volumes are models of candid and trustworthy narration. They are now, and are likely to remain, the standard history of the Empire State for the ninety years which they recount. Though the work is a fragment, it is a great satisfaction that these two volumes cover the most difficult and obscure part of the State's history." Whether they appreciate it or not, historians of colonial New York owe John Romeyn Brodhead a considerable debt, both for gathering the records and for writing the early history of the province that became the Em­pire State.

References: Adriaan J. Barnouw, "John Romeyn Brodhead," de Halve Maen. 39

(October 1964): 3; "John Romeyn Brodhead," Scnbner's Monthly, 13 (November 1876 -

April 1877): 459-463.

Papers: The Brodhead papers are at Rutgers University.

Ronald Howard's essay first appeared in Dictionary of Literary Biography, volume 30, published by Gale Research Company, Detroit, Michigan, in 1984. It is reprinted by permission of the publisher.

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Dutch Antil les (continued) who were interested to establish in Curacao and St. Eustatius. The first group to make use collectively of this opportunity was a group of Sephardic Jews, who after fleeing from Por­tugal took refuge in Amsterdam. In 1651 the Company gave permission to a certain Joao de Ilhao to found a small col­ony. He was not very successful, however. In 1659 a group of 12 Jewish families succeeded in establishing themselves on Curacao, which would turn out to be a permanent settle­ment. Out of this nucleus grew the group of Sephardic Jews which nowadays plays an important role in the economy of Curacao, especially in the financial sector.

But apart from the Sephardic Jews other colonists also established themselves on the island. Members of the gar­rison and employees of the company remained on the island after their term of Service. Captains of the companies' ships, after having made some money, chose to remain trying their luck in agriculture or trade. The same goes for the more or­dinary seamen and the soldiers and the craftsmen. Finally, merchants were attracted to Curacao when the island gradual­ly developed into a trade centre.

Agriculture has never played an important role in the economy of Curacao. The big country mansions one can see scattered on the island should rather be considered as status symbols to underline the prosperity of the proprietor than as centres for economic activities to rise to wealth. St. Eustatius had a slightly different development in that, apart from trade, agriculture was of some economic significance as well. The society as such developed along the same lines.

The other islands, Aruba and Bonaire, next to Curacao and St. Martin and Saba in the vicinity of St. Eustatius, were of little importance and not actually colonized. Although neither Curacao nor St. Eustatius were typical plantation islands, the negro played an important role in the shaping of the societies on these islands.

For one thing, both islands up till 1715 played an im­portant role in the slave trade, both legally and illegally. Again, for Curacao the surrounding Spanish colonies were the markets, for St. Eustatius the English and French ter­ritories. Curacao for years was a depot for slaves which were supplied to the slave-traders who had a contract for the delivery of slaves to the Spanish colonies.

Secondly, the little agricultural activity on the islands was based on slavery. Finally, slaves were used for domestic work and as craftsmen. The societies that developed on these islands were characterized by a segmentation, which means that they consisted of various segments differing in race, culture, religion etc. between which at the beginning there was little contact. First there was the cleavage between the whites and blacks, and then the white segment was divided along religious lines: the Dutch Reformed, thejews and the Catholics. Racial mixture between the whites and the blacks provided another segment, that of the mulattoes or coloured. Although the relations between the different segments most of the time was characterized by a certain mildness, the cleavages as such persisted till far into the twentieth century.18

,8Romer, R.A., Curacao, Puerto Rico, 1981. (English translation of Un Pueblo na Kaminda, Zutphen, 1979).

Wk In a 1658 letter to Peter Stuyvesant at New Amsterdam, Thomas Chambers mentioned a "tennis-court" at Esopus (Kingston, N.Y.), probably the earliest reference to this sport in America.

WE NEED YOUR HELP The New Netherland Project, a program of the New York State Library for the translation and publication of early records of New Netherland, needs $48,000 to continue its work for the next two years. Dr. Charles T. Gehring, a fellow of the Holland Society, is the project's translator and the Holland Society has had a vital interest in his work since 1974.

Anyone contributing at least $25 to the project will receive a copy of the map on the opposite page. It is printed in full color on heavy text paper and measures 22 Vi" x 19". The map is taken from Peter Goos' Atlas of the Sea, first published in 1667 and entitled New Netherland and the English Virginias. Checks may be made out to the Regents' Fund of the University of the State of New York and mailed to Dr. Gehring, Cultural Education Center, New York State Library, Albany, N.Y. 12230.

Eighth Rensselaerswyck Seminar The New Netherland Project of the New York State Library announces its Eighth Rensselaerswyck Seminar on "Mer­chants and Traders of New Netherland and Colonial New York." The seminar honors the centennial of the Holland Society and will take place Saturday, September 21, 1985, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Student Center of the Cultural Education Center in Albany, New York.

The president of the Holland Society, John H. Vander Veer, will introduce the following speakers:

Oliver Rink: "New Netherland and the Amsterdam Merchants: Unraveling a secret Colonialism"

Bill Starna: "17th. - Century Dutch - Indian Trade." Charlotte Wilcoxen: "17th. - Century Dutch Trade with

New England" Thomas Burke: "New Netherland Fur Trade 1657-1661:

Response to Crisis" Cathy Matson: "Commerce after the Conquest: Dutch

Traders and Goods in New York City"

The Rensselaerswyck Seminar is free and open to the general public. For a brochure contact either Charles Gehring or Nancy Zeller, New Netherland Project, New York State Library, Albany, NY 12230 or call (518) 474-6067.

The Editor's Corner (continued) to be done in chinks of spare time can be done more ex­peditiously and more fully, even though I shall no longer be living in the metropolitan area.

Finally, a word about our distinguished medalist at the Centennial Banquet which is scheduled for the St. Regis Hotel in November. Dr. J.W. Schulte Nordholt, Professor of American History at the University of Leiden, is the foremost authority in Europe on the story of Dutch Colonial America. A charming man, whom I happen to know per­sonally, he has been greatly in demand in this country as a lecturer in such universities as Harvard, Columbia and Michigan. We are indeed privileged to have him grace this important Centennial occasion.

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