Elizabeth Lakens Van Dyck

Traditional sources tell us that Elizabeth Lakens (many variants) was the first wife of Manhattan-born Albany physician Cornelis Van Dyck. At present, her origins are unknown but most sources hold that she had been born in North America probably during the 1640s. However, we seek defining information on her origins and path to Albany.

She is said to have married Van Dyck about 1663. The marriage (lasting through two decades) may have produced two sons and perhaps daughters as well. Son Hendrick also would practice medicine in Albany.

In September 1677, Cornelis Van Dyck submitted an affidavit authorizing two Amsterdam merchants (one named William Lakens) to administer his present and future assets on behalf of his wife, Elizabeth Lakens. He further identified her as "alive and well" and asserted that he was her guardian.

However, Elizabeth Lakens Van Dyck was dead by April 1682 when Dr. Van Dyck remarried.

Sources: The life of Elizabeth Lakens Van Dyck has no CAP biography number. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources.

Online Resources: From PFS; Wikitree; IRS sweep - November 2016.