Willem Jacobse Van Deusen

Willem Jacobse was born about 1670. He was an older son in the large family of New Netherland pioneers Jacob Abrahamse and Catalyntie Van Eslant Van Deusen. He probably was born in New York and came to Albany with his family prior to 1679 when his father was identified as householder.

He married Elizabeth Roseboom in January 1692. By 1705, the marriage had produced seven children who were christened at the Albany Dutch church where he was a member and church officer.

These Van Deusens set up their home in the second ward in a house on Pearl Street where they were Albany mainstays for several decades. Willem Jacobse's holdings were accorded a moderate assessment on city tax rolls. In 1699, he joined with other Albany people in swearing allegiance to the king of England.

He served his community as a juror, assessor, firemaster, and, in 1711, was elected assistant alderman. He also belonged to an Albany militia company. In 1720, his name was included on a list of Albany freeholders.

Willem Jacobse Van Deusen died in September 1731 and was buried from his church.

Sources: The life of Willem Jacobse Van Deusen is CAP biography number 5574. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources.