Albany County NY

Albany County, New York, one of the original twelve counties established by the Province of New York in 1683, encompasses part of the historic Hudson River Valley and is among the oldest jurisdictions in the state, with continuous governmental records—land, probate, tax, and vital—available from the late 17th century, making it a key location for early colonial genealogical research. Originally much larger, it was gradually reduced in size as new counties were formed; it includes the state capital, Albany, which was first settled by the Dutch as Fort Orange in 1624 and chartered as a city in 1686 under the Dongan Charter. The region was historically inhabited by Mohican (Mahican) peoples before European colonization and saw significant Dutch, English, and later immigrant settlement. The Hudson River, Mohawk River, and early turnpikes and canals made Albany County a transportation hub, further increasing the richness and accessibility of genealogical records.

Biography of Lewis Balch, M. D., PH. D.

Dr. Lewis Balch, born in New York City on July 7, 1847, is a prominent physician and surgeon in Albany. He hails from a distinguished lineage, including connections to notable figures like John Jay. Educated at several institutions, he graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1870. After relocating to Albany in 1873, he held multiple medical positions, including attending surgeon and professor of anatomy at Albany Medical College. He was also active in public health, serving as city physician and secretary of the state board of health. Dr. Balch’s contributions to medicine and public service are significant.

Biography of John Battersby

John Battersby, born on January 19, 1834, in Dromore, Ireland, emigrated to Albany with his family in 1847. Following his father’s establishment of a successful meat market, John learned the business and eventually took over after his father’s death in 1880. Renowned for his generosity, he provided aid to the needy, especially during crises. Battersby entered politics as a Republican, becoming Albany County Treasurer in 1884, where he gained a reputation for honesty and effective governance. He also maintained interests in literature and the arts, reflecting his multifaceted character.

Biography of Edwin C. Baxter

Dr. Edwin C. Baxter, born on February 1, 1845, in Kenduskeag, Maine, descended from a lineage of distinguished physicians. He initially pursued medicine before shifting his focus to dentistry, graduating with honors from the Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery in 1866. Establishing a successful practice in Albany, New York, he gained a reputation for excellence, comparable to renowned dentists of his time. Married in 1873 to Lydia Ryerson Sprague, Dr. Baxter is noted for his skillful and gentle treatment, earning international acclaim.

Biography of John Bogart

John Bogart, born in Albany on February 8, 1836, is a prominent civil engineer and state surveyor with Dutch ancestry tracing back to 1640. He excelled academically, earning both the Van Rensselaer and Caldwell medals. After graduating from Rutgers College in 1853, he worked on the New York Central Railroad, later contributing to significant urban park projects, including Central Park and Prospect Park. Bogart served as state engineer and surveyor, participating in various major engineering initiatives and was a respected member of professional organizations. He and his wife, Emma, are well-regarded in their community.

Biography of Jonas H. Brooks

Jonas H. Brooks, a prominent banker from Albany, was born on January 5, 1848, in Rutland, Massachusetts. From a long line of New England ancestry, he pursued a diverse education, initially aspiring to medicine before shifting to teaching and banking. He held various positions, including teller and cashier in notable banks, and became cashier of the Albany City National Bank in 1889. An active member of his community and a devoted Episcopalian, Brooks also enjoyed athletics and was known for his social presence and engaging character. He married Frances S. Patten in 1889.

Biography of Charles J. Buchanan

Charles J. Buchanan is an esteemed Albany lawyer with a distinguished record, both in law and military service during the Civil War. Born on December 27, 1843, in New Berlin, New York, he enlisted in the First regiment of United States sharpshooters in 1861, rising to first lieutenant and participating in numerous key battles. After the war, he pursued legal studies, becoming a partner in the prominent firm Moak Buchanan. Buchanan is also engaged in various community and veteran organizations, exemplifying a commitment to both his profession and public service.

Biography of Joel Wakeman Burdick

Joel Wakeman Burdick, born on June 20, 1853, in Almond, New York, is a distinguished general passenger agent for the Delaware and Hudson Canal Company railroad. He began his career in the telegraph business at a young age and quickly advanced within the railroad industry due to his dedication and expertise. Over time, Burdick held significant positions, culminating in his current role. His journeys in Europe enriched his appreciation for art and culture. A family man, he is known for his humility and commitment to his work and company.

Biography of Eugene Burlingame

Eugene Burlingame, born on January 24, 1847, in Willet, New York, emerged as a prominent figure in Albany. Hailing from a pioneering New England family, he demonstrated industriousness and a passion for education early on. After teaching briefly, he pursued law at Albany Law School, graduating in 1871. Burlingame established a successful legal practice in Albany, excelling in trials against seasoned attorneys and gaining notable recognition for his work, including involvement in high-profile criminal cases.

Biography of Theodore V. Van Heusen

Theodore V. Van Heusen, born in 1818 in Albany, New York, emerged from a diverse heritage that shaped his intellect and character. Orphaned at ten, he excelled in education and entered the business world as a young man. He established a successful crockery business with Charles in 1843, which thrived for forty-seven years. Although not a politician, he was involved in public discourse, advocating for tariff reform. Married to Arabella J. Manning, he had four sons, all of whom pursued distinguished paths in education and business.

Biography of William B. Van Rensselaer

William Bayard Van Rensselaer, born in Albany on October 4, 1856, is a prominent descendant of the Van Rensselaer family with a distinguished lineage. His education spanned leading institutions, including Harvard University and Harvard Law School. After marrying Louisa G. Lane, he focused on real estate law, eventually managing the estate of Stephen Van Rensselaer. Active in local governance and community improvement, he holds various leadership roles and contributes significantly to Albany’s development and culture, becoming a respected figure by the age of thirty-four.

Biography of Joseph H. Ramsey

Joseph H. Ramsey, born January 29, 1816, in Schoharie County, New York, was a prominent figure in local politics and civil affairs. He became an ardent advocate for the Albany and Susquehanna Railroad, showcasing remarkable perseverance in its development, overcoming numerous obstacles and opposition. A member of the state legislature and later a state senator, Ramsey played a critical role in advancing railroad interests that significantly benefited the region. He also held various leadership positions in businesses and associations, contributing extensively to local infrastructure and industry.

Descendants of Captain David Abeel

Captain David Abeel, born April 27, 1705, in Albany, N.Y., was a successful businessman in dry goods and provisions and served as a militia captain until 1772. He married Mary Duyckink in 1726, fathering four children. His son, James Abeel (1733–1825), became a prominent figure during the American Revolution, serving as Captain and later Major in the New York City Militia. He played a significant role in the Battle of Long Island and was later appointed Deputy Quartermaster General under Washington. James married Gertrude Neilson and had several children.

Line of David Abeel

David Abeel, born in Albany in 1727, was a committed patriot during the American Revolution. He settled in Catskill, where he faced a bitter feud with local Tories, particularly Jacobus Rowe, who betrayed him. In 1780, Abeel and his son Anthony were captured by Rowe and a band of Indians. After enduring harsh conditions in captivity, they made a daring escape in 1782. David died in 1813, while his family continued to play significant roles in the community, including his son Gerrit, a respected judge.

Descendants of Johannes Abeel

Johannes Abeel, born in Albany in 1667, was a successful merchant and influential politician, serving as mayor of Albany and a member of the Assembly. He married Catharine Schuyler in 1694 and had several children, including Christoffel Abeel, who became a fur trader and married an Indian princess, Aliquipiso, producing the notable chief Cornplanter. John Abeel, Christoffel’s son, also had a complex relationship with Native Americans, ultimately securing his safety during the Revolutionary War through his bond with Cornplanter. His descendants remain in Montgomery County, New York.

Abeel and Allied Families

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Recent research has unveiled significant connections between the Abeel family and the Revolutionary period, notably linking Chief Cornplanter of the Seneca Tribe to Christopher Janse Abeel, the family’s founder in America. Born in 1621 in Amsterdam, Christopher faced early hardships after losing his parents to the plague, yet he prospered after immigrating to Albany around 1647. As a skilled carpenter and community leader, he significantly contributed to local institutions, including the First Reformed Dutch Church, before his death in 1684.

Albany, New York Biographies

The biographies compiled in “Noted Living Albanians and State Officials” chronicle the lives of seventy-nine influential figures from Albany, written by D. A. Harsha between 1881 and 1891. Originally published in the Albany Times, these sketches were expanded for the current edition. Harsha’s aim was to impartially honor these individuals, detailing their heritage, education, and professional achievements across various fields. This manuscript captures the contributions of living Albany officials, showcasing their dedication to societal progress and development.

Biography of Stephen Jose Vanderlick

Stephen Jose Vanderlick, born October 22, 1893, in Lipno, Russian Poland, immigrated to the United States as a child. He pursued his education, graduating from Cushings Academy in 1916 and Albany Law School in 1918. Admitted to the bar in 1923, he established himself as a respected general practitioner in Northampton. A member of the Knights of Columbus and the Northampton Naturalization Club, Vanderlick married Marion Hiney in 1924, furthering his connections in the community while continuing the legacy of his industrious Polish ancestry.

Biography of Walter A. Bull

Walter A. Bull, a prominent farmer in Kittitas Valley, was born in Albany, New York, on June 20, 1838. After moving to Wisconsin, he worked for the government during the Civil War and later became a contractor for the Union Pacific Railroad. Impressed by the Kittitas Valley, he established a large farm of over 1,700 acres, excelling in general farming and stock-raising. Bull served as probate judge and married twice, fathering five children. He was known for his community involvement and resilience during local conflicts.

Biography of Frank Johnson

Frank Johnson, born in Holland in 1844, emigrated to New York with his mother in 1852 and began his career as a carpenter in Buffalo. He served valiantly in the Civil War and later trained under architect Frederick Scott. In 1880, seeking a new life in the West, he settled in Washington Territory and established a successful contracting business. Johnson gained renown for his craftsmanship, overseeing significant projects including military quarters and local buildings, becoming a respected figure in Spokane Falls for his integrity and skill.