Matthew Orsen

by

Spelled and referred to variously, Matthew Orsen lived in Albany at least during the decade before the outbreak of hostilities in 1775. We seek defining information on his origins and path to Albany. However, our research challenge begins with an uncertainty in defining a useful spelling of his surname. Beyond that, similarly named contemporaries were living in the region.

In 1758, one "Matheus Aerse" was named constable for the second ward. Thus, he probably was born prior to 1740.

In February 1764, "Matheus Aarsen" married twenty-four-year-old "Bregje Van Hoesen" at the Albany, Dutch church. At that time, they were identified as young people "both of this city." Between 1773 and 1784, three children were christened at the Albany Dutch church leading to speculation that additional children were baptized in other regional churches.

During the mid-1760s, "Arsen's" house and property in the third ward were assessed modestly. Also on the roll in 1767, was the modest property of one William "Orsen."

In May 1773, "Matthew Orson's" account for £1:10 was ordered to be paid from the city treasury.

On several occasions in 1778, "Mr. Mathew Aerson" was identified as a "ferryman" and was active in moving soldiers across the river. Later, he submitted accounts for that work. Perhaps claims for compensation submitted much later to Congress relate to this individual as well. We recognize that we have only a superficial appreciation of his wartime activities.

In 1790,"Mathew Arson's" household was configured on the census returns for Rensselaerswyck - probably on the east side of the Hudson. A that time, two, men, two boys, and two females resided under his roof. Next to him on the census was the landmark Greenbush home of John E. Van Allen.

After that, the name of this individual known as Matthew Orsen or Aersen has not been found in the community based record or in our most recent sweep of Internet-based resources. With basic life questions still unanswered, we move on for now.


biography in-progress


notes

the people of colonial Albany Sources: The life of Matthew Orsen/Arsen is CAP biography number 8351. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources.

Alternative spelling/references of this individual's surname as encountered: Aalsteyn, Aarsen, Aersen, Arsen, Harsen, Orsen.





first posted 2/10/15