Jan Van Ness

Jan Van Ness probably was born during the 1640s or early 50s. He was the son of New Netherland pioneers Cornelis and Maria Van Ness.

Perhaps during the late 1660s, he married a woman named "Aaltie" (possibly Vanderheyden). Their last child was christened in 1689 at the Albany Dutch church where he was a member and regular baptism sponsor.

After some years in residence just outside the stockade, this Van Ness family made its home in Albany's third ward. In 1709, his property was assessed at a modest rate. During those years, he also signed a number of community based petitions.

On a number of occasions and in several jurisdictions, Jan Van Ness was called on to serve as an assessor and watchman. He appears to have held land at Kinderhook, Halfmoon, Hoosick, and elsewhere in greater Albany County.

After 1710, his name no longer appeared on Albany rolls.

Sources: The life of Jan Van Ness is CAP biography number 968. This sketch is derived chiefly from family and community-based resources.