Claes Jacobse Groesbeck
by
Stefan Bielinski


From a number of sources, we are able to infer that Claes Jacobse was born in Europe about 1624, that he was from Rotterdam, perhaps was born in Breda, and that his father was named Jacob.

In May 1648, he married Elizabeth Stevens in Amsterdam, Holland. By 1659, they had emigrated to New Netherland and had taken up residence in Beverwyck. His marriage produced at least the seven children who were still alive in 1707. He was a member of the Albany Dutch church as were other members of his family.

In 1660, he was among the fur traders who petitioned for more latitude in trading with the Indians. Over the next half century, his second ward home was regularly listed on Albany census and assessment rolls. In 1699, he joined with his neighbors in swearing allegiance to the king of England.

He also was known as a carpenter. His home was on the west side of Pearl Street across from the house of his son, Willem Claese. He owned additional properties in Albany and beyond.

Claes Jacobse Groesbeck filed a will in January 1707. It named his wife and seven children as his heirs. He died in March 1712. This pioneer of New Netherland had lived almost ninety years.

biography in-progress


notes

the people of colonial Albany Sources: The life of Claes Jacobse Groesbeck is CAP biography number 3369. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources.


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first posted: 10/10/05