Frans Janse was the first member of the Pruyn family in early Albany. Four sons further established the family in eighteenth century Albany.

Three Pruyn households were in the city in 1720. In 1756, only the home of shoemaker John Prune was listed on the census.

But in 1790, seven Pruyn families were counted in the booming city including the Pearl Street home of businessman John F. Pruyn. The family also became prominent in Rensselaerswyck.

In 1815, nine households remained in the city!

Albany artist Francis Pruyn made an often-utilized sketch of the first Van Rensselaer Manor House just prior to its destruction in 1839.

The Augustus Pruyn collection of photographs and artwork at the New York State Library is an important resource for the history of Albany. The Pruyn House was built for Casparus Francis Pruyn in 1830 and is the headquarters of the Colonie Historical Society.

Sources: This profile is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources. Online resources summarize traditional wisdom on the family! Pruyn family papers; Additionally, An Albany Girlhood is an enchanting must-read for insight on the family in the Victorian age.