Elizabeth Dunns Potts

Referred to variously, Elizabeth Dunns was the wife and widow of Albany newcomer Jesse Potts. She is said to have been from Glasgow, Scotland. However, we seek more definitive information on her precise origins and path to Albany.

In 1796, she is said to have married Jesse Potts in Albany. By 1811, the marriage had produced at least six children.

Jesse Potts died in December 1811 at the age of thirty-seven. Potts's chronicler later noted that "he left a widow and several small children and very limited means of support, but through thrift and energy she supported her family and brought them up in respectability."

In 1813 and afterwards, "Widow Potts" was listed in the city directory as the operator of a boarding house at 44 Quay Street while residing at 52 Dock Street.

As late as 1830, "Widow Elizabeth Potts" was listed in the city directory. At that time her residence was at 51 Lydius.

Elizabeth Dunns Potts is said to have died in 1852.

Sources: The life of Elizabeth Dunns Potts has no CAP biography number. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources. This preliminary sketch is simply a place holder and (in its present condition) is undeveloped.