Gerrit Van Ness

by


Gerrit Van Ness was born in January 1702. He was the son of one-time Albany residents Cornelis and Maria Vandenbergh Van Ness. He sometimes was known as "Gerrit C. Van Ness."

In August 1724, he married Sara Vandenbergh at the Albany Dutch church. By 1744, eight children had been christened in Albany.

Gerrit C. Van Ness was a carpenter whose third ward home for several decades was an Albany landmark. After serving as firemaster in 1728, he was elected alderman three times beginning in 1745. His name appeared on Albany freeholder lists in 1742 and 1763. His name also appeared on city rolls to be paid for contract work.

In 1765, he was deposed regarding the so-called will of Jochem Staats. His name did not appear on Albany assessment rolls during the 1760s and 70s. Perhaps he was the "Gerret Van Ness" whose Halfmoon property was valued during that time. In February 1780, a "Gerrit Van Ness" testified before the Albany Commissioners. Gerrit C. Van Ness would have been in his late seventies. We seek information on his passing.


biography in-progress


notes

the people of colonial Albany Sources: The life of Gerrit Van Ness is CAP biography number 902. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources. We have taken care not not confuse him with an older, same-named kinsman.




first posted: 7/15/07