John Alley

In 1800, an individual named John Alley was identified as a householder (born between 1756 and 1774) living alone in Albany's first ward. We seek defining information on his origins and path to Albany. The name John Alley was surprisingly widespread in early national America. This sketch focuses on the Albany city resident.

Two slightly earlier references further document his Albany identity. In April 1798, his name appeared on a list of eligible jurors for the Albany Mayor's Court. At that time, he was identified as a tailor. In 1799 and in 1800, his house, lot, and personal property were valued moderately on the city assessment roll for the first ward.

Several same named contemporaries living in the region complicate further assignment of qualitative materials. One of them was "John Alley" whose property was valued on the assessment roll for Halfmoon in 1802. Similar references (most notably on the census for Rensselaerville in 1810) are available for individuals connected to places beyond the city of Albany.

Clearly, a number of same-named individuals are at risk. Past diminishing returns and with basic demographic questions still unanswered, we move on for now from the life of one-time Albany resident John Alley.

Sources: The life of John Alley is CAP biography number 7125. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources.