March 9, 1643 

Adriaen van der donck, in the colony of Rensselaerswyck This 9th of March 1643, N Amsterdam. Your advice as to the brewing of beer came too late, as Evert pels had contracted with me. Every effort ought to be made to stop the excessive drinking and n ow that there is a public brewer I hope that private brewing will cease. Some regulation might be made regarding the beer brewed by him, but as he has not taken a brew kettle with him I do not know what he is going to do. 

June 15, 1643 

I, the undersigned. Evert Pels, residing in Renselaerswyck, promise for myself, my heirs and successors that I will honestly satisfy and pay to Jan Jansen Damen the sum of one hundred and ninety guilders, nineteen stivers, ten pence, which money the aforesaid Jan Damen has paid on my account to the company for Wolphert Nys. I promise to pay the same on demand. Done the 15th of June Ao. 1643, in Fort Amsterdam, New Netherland. – Evert Pels (original)

June 15, 1643 

I, Wophert Nys, from the bishopric of Vol, hereby acknowledge that I have of my own free will and deliberate choice bound and hired myself to Evert Pels and his wife, residing in Renselaerswyck, for the term of two consecutive years, commencing on the date hereof. He, Wolphert Nys, promises while in the service of the aforesaid Evert Pels to demean and conduct himself diligently, honestly and faithfully as a faithful, honest and decent servant is bound and ought to serve his master and mistress, and that in such work and employment as Evert Pels shall please to command; for which honest and upright service he shall annually have and receive as wages the sum of one hundred and fifteen guilders, whereupon I have already received from the above mentioned Evert Pels the sum of one hundred and ninety guilders, nineteen stivers, ten pennies, which he shall deduct from my first earned wages. In testimony whereof this is signed by Wolphert Nys in presence of the witness. Done the 15th of June 1643. – Adriaen van Tienhoven, witness, Acknowledged before me, Cornelis van Tienhoven, Secretary (original)

May 31, 1646 

Jan Damen, plaintiff, vs. Evert Pels, defendant, about freight of 76 schepels of wheat. It is decided that the plaintiff is to receive the grain free of charge at the Manhatans. 

April 2, 1648 

Jacob Adriaensz is ordered to serve out his term with Evert Pels for the space of one year and to report to Evert Pels within four days from this date, under penalty of forfeiting, the first time four guilders, for remaining in default another four days eight guilders, and the third time sixteen guilders ; and of receiving arbitrary punishment the fourth time. 

May 28, 1648 

Quiryn Cornelisz is ordered to complete his term of service with Evert Pels during the. planting, according to his agreement, under penalty of forfeiting fl.25. 

July 23, 1648 

Cornelis Theunisz from Breuckelen and Evert Pels are ordered to settle their accounts within eight days and then to consider and determine together who is to satisfy Claes Tyssen. 

October 8, 1648 

The honorable director, plaintiff, against Cornelis van Es and his wife, separately, Pieter Claesz and Evert Pels. First default. The order of [July] 23 of this year as to the question between Cornelis Teunisz and Evert Pels is renewed and they are once more ordered to settle their mutual accounts within eight days after date, to wit, as far as Claes Tyssen is concerned, under penalty of forfeiting six guilders each, and [so] from eight days to eight days. Evert Pels is cited: 1, To pay the wages earned by Claes Tyssen 2, To pay for one half of the pease that were mowed and for the great damage and loss of time [suffered by Claes Tyssen] as the result of the beating 3, To pay the fine for beating Claes [Tyssen] 4, On account of his wife’s abusive language to the honorable director, when he served the complaint. 

October 15, 1648 

urt day. Evert Pels, for having beaten Claes Tyssen, offers to pay the fine provided [by law] . Claes Tyssen declares here before the court and Broer Cor nelis x that Evert Pels, having with him Cornelis Teunisz, called him a rascal and a thief. 

December 12, 1648 

Evert Pels summoned on account of wounding Tomes Jansz. Also because he, or his servant, took another man’s cow without his consent. Also on account of beating Claes Tyssen. Also on account of his delivered grain which he received from Broer Cornelis for his labor and which was delivered to Evert Pels, as he, Pels, admitted on the aforesaid date. Said Pels was summoned also on account of wages earned by Claes Tyssen and on account of the damage of the pease. Finally, E. Pels was summoned also on account of the abusive language used by his wife in addressing the director, for all of which together he must make answer on Thursday next, being the 17th of this month. 

December 17, 1648 

The honorable director, plaintiff, against Evert Pels, defend ant, for having wounded Thomas Jansz in the head with a piece of wood and drawing blood. Demands condemnation according to the ordinance of the Hon. Chartered West India Company at the Manhatans, or of Amsterdam, and as Evert Pels had his servant get the canoe of Thomas Jansz without his knowledge or consent, the plaintiff maintains that Evert Pels has forfeited the sum of 25 guilders according to the former ordinance, all cum expensis. The same, against the wife of Evert Pels. Whereas she slandered the honorable director and the other members of the court in general, the honorable plaintiff concludes that she is liable to a fine of 300 guilders in accordance with the ordinance, and demands that she be fined five times six guilders, cum expensis. Evert Pels is ordered to pay and satisfy the 26 guilders which he owes Claes Tyssen, in money or goods, as stipulated, cum expensis, saving his claim against Cornelis Teunisz. 

December 19, 1648 

On the 21st ditto, notice was served on Evert Pels in the presence of Mr Hoogens, by affixing said notice to the door. Memorandum in the handwriting of Van Slichtenhorst 

February 4, 1649 

It is ordered that Evert Pels, next Thursday shall present in court here the account of Claes Tyssen regarding the pease and five weeks’ wages claimed by him, on pain of forfeiting three guilders. February 12, notice served on Pels. 

February 18, 1649 

Jacob Adriaensz, raedemaecker (wheelwright) , denies before us that he fought on the 4th of this month. Whereas Jacob Adriaensz, raedemaecker, and Jacob Adria ensz, waegenaer (wagoner) , on the 2 1 st of February 1649, not withstanding the director’s warning and on penalty of the highest fine to be imposed by him, as many as three times made bold to prevent the director from making an arrest as he was having hold of the delinquent’s clothes and body, by holding on to his arms and body in such a way that he could not follow, saying also several times that they would not let him go along, which in a land of justice neither can nor ought to be tolerated, as every one in case of need is bound to lend the officers of justice a help ing hand, according to the rule of the dear fatherland, for which according to law each of them must stand in the delinquent’s place and expect the same punishment, and in addition for each offense forfeit the sum of 300 guilders and receive arbitrary cor rection according to the ordinance of the 28th of May 1 648, and whereas each of them has committed the highest crime not only against the patroon by violating Hs high and low jurisdiction but also against the States General, whose place is occupied here, therefore, the honorable plaintiff demands, first, that each person shall give security for the satisfaction of the judgment, or, in default thereof, that they shall be placed in confinement and defend their case there; cum expensis. For which purpose the raedemaecker is summoned to appear on the 22d and the waegenaer on the 23d of February, at about 9 o’clock in the forenoon. The raedemaecker s first default. The honorable director has declared by true words that the above took place as follows: The 21st of February 1649, the honorable director, assisted by his son and Hans Vos, having come to the house of Jan Verbeeck, in the Greenen Bos, to arrest Jacob Toenys, the servant of Jan Verbeeck, on account of abusive language and violence between the son of the honorable director and said Jacob Toenys, Jacob raedemaecker, Jacob waegenaer and Harmen Bastiaensen ventured, notwithstanding the honorable director forbade them to do so on pain of the highest fine which he could impose, to prevent the honorable director from arresting the aforesaid Jacob Toenys…  

February 23, 1649 

It is ordered that Jacob Adriaensen shall give security for the judgment, or in default thereof be taken into custody. The same is ordered with reference to Jacob Aertsz, waegenaer. Evert Pels from Steltyn [Stettin, Germany], by this his signature becomes surety and bail for Jacob Aertsz, Waegenaer, for the satisfaction of the judgment and the costs in the action for preventing the execution of justice or making the arrest, as the court of this colony shall determine. Done this 25th of February Anno 1649. Evert Pels In the same way, in every respect, Evert Pels and Rutger Jacobsz become sureties and bailsmen for Jacob Adriaensz, raedemaecker. Rut Jacobsz Evert Pels Acknowledged before me, A: DE HOOGES, Secretary The case of Jacob Aertsz, waegenaer, and Jacob Adriaensz, raedemaecker, is with the full consent and approval of the honor able director and Rut Jacobsz and Evert Pels, as sureties for the aforesaid persons, put for decision into the hands of two neutral and impartial men having legal knowledge and they therefore promise mutually to abide by the decision and to observe it in all respects. The parties aforesaid have mutually and voluntarily agreed to this, the [ ] of June Anno 1649. Acknowledged before me, A. De Hooges, Secretary 

May 28, 1649 

Whereas Gysbert Cornelisz aende Berch was ordered some time ago to deliver to Evert Pels two cows with a heifer and he, Gysbert, being called upon and urged to do so, has posi tively and stubbornly refused to give up the aforesaid cattle, he is hereby ordered by the court to deliver the said cattle to Evert Pels or his agent under the penalty of three guilders for one day’s delay, six guilders for two days, nine guilders for three days and so on multiplied, and arbitrary correction, cum expensis. [In the margin:] May 19, this order was served and read to him. For which refusal the aforesaid Gysbert is summoned to appear in court under penalty of the highest fine to be imposed by the patroon. 

June 3, 1649 

Thomas Jansz, plaintiff, against Evert Pels, about surgeon’s fees for wounds inflicted. Evert Pels says that he is not bound to make compensation, because Thomas Jansz was just as guilty as he was. Hans Vos is ordered and commanded to go to the house of Gysbert aende Berch and there by judicial process to levy the share of the animals for the farm of Evert Pels, as was ordered heretofore, to wit, 2 cows and one heifer. This day, the 3d of June 1649, Adriaen vander Donck and Jan Louwerensz Appel, having been requested by B. v. Slichten horst, director of the colony of Rensselaerswyck, of the one part, and Evert Pels of Statyn and Rut Jacobsz, as sureties and bondsmen of and in the name of Jacob Aertsz, wagoner, and Jacob Adriaensz, wheelwright, of the other part, [to act as referees] in the dispute which they, to wit, the wheelwright and the wagoner, had with the director of this colony as plaintiff on account of certain offenses committed by them, and the matter having by both sides been placed completely and entirely into the hands of the aforesaid Adriaen vander Donck and Jan Louwerensz Appel, they have in all conscience and after a care ful examination of all that is to be taken into account decided and concluded that inasmuch as their offenses are inexcusable each of the persons shall for himself pay to the plaintiff the here inafter specified fines, to wit: fl. 50 , that is to say, the wagoner fifty guilders and the wheelwright fifty guilders, each. Also, for expenses, each shall pay: to the plaintiff fl. 8- to the secretary 8- to Hans Vos 7- All of which we consider to be right and proper. Further more, in the interest of the administration of justice, by way of honorable amends, the delinquents shall appear in court and there acknowledge that they have done wrong and have fallen into error through ignorance and drunkeness, praying the court to forgive them. Thus done and concluded in the colony of Rensselaerswyck, on the date above written, and in. witness of the truth subscribed with our usual signatures. Was signed : Adriaen vander Donk, Jan Louwrensz Appel. Agrees with the original, Which I certify, A: de Hooges, Secretary 

June 4, 1649 

This day, the 4th of June 1 649, we, Adryaen vander Donck and Jan Louwersen Appel, have been requested by B. v. Slichtenhorst, director of the colony of Rensselaerswyck, of the one part, and Evert Pels of Statyn,1 of the other part, to settle a certain question at issue’ between them in the court, said matter at issue being completely and fully, just as it stands, placed into our hands and absolutely referred to us, the aforesaid Adriaen vander Donck and Jan Louwerensz Appel; whereupon, after mutual examination and consideration of the same, we have found and decided as follows : First, in regard to Claes Tyssen, Evert Pels shall restore to the honorable director within the space of eight days the 26 guilders which the director paid to Claes Tyssen and for the loan of the money pay to the director the sum of fl. 116. Furthermore, for the notice served on Klaes Tyssen, his servant, Evert Pels shall for certain reasons pay to the honorable director the sum of fl. 4 For summons served there by the director …. fl. 3 4 To de Hoogens, for writing fl. 2 10 To Hans Vos for citation fl. 1-16 Thus done and ratified by us as regards the matter of Claes Tyssen. As to the matter of Tomes Jansz it is decided that Evert Pels shall pay to the Hon. Director B. v. Slichtenhorst the sum of ten guilders, once, for costs and expenses. Finally, Evert Pels shall pay to the officer, once for all, the sum of fl. 10, on con dition that the director shall not trouble said Pels or his people any more, provided Evert Pels pays as above written within thr space of eight days. Thus done to the best of our knowledge and decision in the colony of Rensselaerswyck, on the date above written. And was signed: Adryaen vander Donck, Jan Louwerensz Appel. I certify that the foregoing agrees with the original A: DE HOOGES, Secretary 

July 8, 1649 

In the year 1648, the honorable director general and council of New Netherland caused to be sold at public sale to the highest bidder In Fort Amsterdam In New Netherland a lot heretofore belonging to Harman Meyndersz van den Bogaert, situated on the Island of Manhatans, bounded on the west by the lot of Adam Roelantsz and on the east by that of Oloff Stevensz, and that on account of the claim presented In the colony of Renselaerswyck for damages by fire which the Indians of that quarter sustained at the hands of said Harman Meyndersz. The aforesaid lot was purchased at public auction by Adriaen Keyser, commissary, to whom the same is hereby conveyed and transferred in full ownership, to do therewith and dispose thereof as his own lawfully obtained land and property. The director and council above mentioned therefore promise to guarantee the said lot against all claims and challenge which may hereafter be set up to it by the heirs of the aforesaid Harmen Meyndersz. (original)  

July 8, 1649 

Before me, Cornells van Tienhoven, secretary of New Netherland, residing in Fort Amsterdam, appeared Adriaen Keyser, commissary for the West India Company in New Netherland, who by virtue of the deed executed on the 8th of July 1649 by the honorable director of New Netherland transfers, conveys and makes over to Evert Pels’ a lot situated on the island of Manhatans, between the lots of Oloff Stevensz and Adam Roelantsen, in true and absolute ownership, to be used and disposed of by the said Evert Pels as he might use and dispose of his lawful and patrimonial lands and property, without the grantor retaining any right of ownership thereof and therefore relinquishing the same forever. This is signed without fraud by Adriaen Keyser in the presence of the undersigned witnesses, the 8th of July A° 1649, in Port Amsterdam, New Netherland. I, the undersigned, acknowledge the receipt from Evert Pels of the sum of one hundred Carolus guilders in part payment of the above mentioned lot. Manhat., this 18th of July Ao. 1649. – A. Keyser 

December 30, 1649 

Evert Pels acknowledges his signature to the contract of the farm formerly occupied by him and agrees to render his account within 14 days. 

March 18, 1650 

Confession of Dirck Hendricksz of Hilversom He admits that on July 12, 1649, he unhitched one of the patroon’s horses which was tied near the patroon’s house and rode it into the Casteels island creek, with the result that the horse was drowned under him. He denies having practically prevented Jan van Bremen before the door of the barn of Evert Pels from taking a horse out of the barn…. Dirck declares that Jacob Lambertsz took Claes Andriesz, who lay sleeping on the river banck near the house of Evert Pels, by the arm and rolled with him down the bank, whereupon Claes struck said Jacob with a stone and that thereupon Jacob went to get his knife and wounded said Claes. 

1651 

A farm used by Evert Pels, adjoins the pine grove (leet aent grijne bos) [Greenbush]. Fl400, 20 Morgens, 7 Horses, 8 Cows 

February 10, 1651 

Animals found on the farm of Evert Pels, the 10th of February 1651 Horses: 1 bay gelding, called Pinkster Blom, 1 stallion, called konning [King], 1 black stallion, called dick kop [Thick Head], 1 old mare, called de valck [The Falcon] 2 bay mares 3 years, 1 black filly 1 year. Cattle: 1 old cow with a blaze, 1 ditto, called kromhoorn [Crooked Horn], 1 red cow with a star 8 years, 1 red heifer 2 years, 1 bull 3 years, 3 heifer calves, 1 year 

August 20, 1651 

On the farm of jan [Dircksz] van breemen, also at Catskil, the 20th of August….Horses: 1 mare, called Evert Pels 

September 14, 1651 

Evert Pels and Martten Hendricksz being summoned to appear in regard to payment for the brewery and their note of March 15, 1650, acknowledge their signature and debt and promise at the first opportunity to make some payment according to their ability. 

September 28, 1651 

Evert Pels and Marten Hendricksz acknowledge their signatures to the note, one dated March 14, 1650, amounting to fl. 2200: the other the 1 5th ditto, in the sum of. fl. 200: [Interest] fl. 96: suffers his first default. fl. 2496:- For expenses 5 :8 Total due fl. 2501 :8- In addition, Marten has received personally 35 :- fl. 2536:8- to pay the third part within one month after the date hereof and the balance in February of the year 1652. 

November 1, 1651 

On this day, date underwritten, before me, Cornelis van Tlenhoven, secretary of New Netherland, appeared Govert Loockmans, Hans Kirsteede and Piter Hartgers, acting as agents for Anna Bogardus, widow of Everardus Bogardus, deceased, of the first part, and Evert Pels, of the second part, who acknowledged that in all love and friendship they had made and concluded the following lease, in the manner hereinafter written. The said Govert Loockmans, Hans Kirsteede and Piter Hartgers, all relatives by marriage of the aforesaid widow and in their capacity of agents of the said Anna Bogardus, declare that deliberately and for her account they have leased to Evert Pels the farm situated on the North river, heretofore used by Egbert Woutersz, as large and as small as the land cultivated by him may be. It is expressly stipulated that the term of the lease shall begin on the first of May anno 1652 and end on the first of May anno 1654. The lessors are bound to deliver with the farm two mares, one filly, a one-year old stallion, two milch cows, and one heifer with calf, all sound and able, which animals, having been delivered, shall be at the common risk of the lessors and the lessee, so that the lessee at the expiration of the term of the lease shall be bound to restore the number of animals received, both as to quantity and quality, to the lessors, and the increase which by God ‘s blessing shall then be found to have been bred from the animals the parties shall divide half and half, it being understood that the number of animals first delivered by the lessors shall first be deducted and received by them. Furthermore, if it should happen, which God prevent, that during the term of the lease one or more horses or cows came to die and the increase were not sufficient to restore the number of cattle received complete as to quantity and quality, the lessee and the lessors shall each bear half the loss of the cattle that died and the lessee not be obliged to make compensation for more than the half thereof Furthermore, there shall be delivered with the farm two plowshares For rent of the said farm house and dwelling house and the land that heretofore has been used in connection with it. Evert Pels shall yearly on the first day of May anno 1653 pay the sum of two hundred and twenty-five guilders and thirty pounds of butter for hire of the cows annually The lessee shall have the choice to build a house on the aforesaid land, which house and everything pertaining to it shall be at the expense, upkeep and risk of the lessee, and at the expiration of the lease the lessors shall be bound to take over the house and pay the lessee according to appraisal by impartial persons and both parties shall be content therewith. It is also stipulated that the lessee is bound to put at his expense a new roof on the present house and to keep this roof-tight, for which he may deduct the first year’s rent, except the 30 pounds of butter, which the lessee shall pay the first year without anything more and without being bound afterwards to pay the rent of the year 1652; and for his trouble and the disbursement of money needed for the new house, the lessee shall, when he undertakes to do that, yearly be entitled to deduct from his promised rent one hundred and twenty-five guilders, which at the expiration of the lease shall avail the lessors in payment for the dwelling house which Pels shall have built, so that in such case the lessee remains bound to pay one hundred guilders and the 30 pounds of butter during the remaining five years. The lessee promises and agrees at his expense to fence In and keep tight the land in the way that is best and most profitable to him and at the expiration of the lease, which will be on the first May anno 1658, the deliver up the land tightly and substantially fenced off for cattle. The lessee shall be held properly to seed the land with good graln and in the year 1658 to deliver the same seeded to the lessors, provided that the lessee shall be paid therefor by the lessors as much as impartial persons shall appraise the grain which shall stand in the field. The lessee shall during the term of the lease also have the use of the valey near Dominee’s hoeck, to cut hay. Which contract we on both sides hereby confirm by these our signatures in the presence of Johanes Chrisman and Adriaen van Tienhoven, as witnesses hereto invited, this day, the first of November anno 1651, at New Amsterdam in New Netherland. Govert Loockermans, Pieter Hertgers, Hans Kiersteede, Evert Pels, Andreas Johannis Christman, Acknowledged before me , Cornells van Tienhoven, Secretary (original)

January 25, 1652 

Upon the petition of Evert Pels, containing a request for the lot next to the garden of Gysbert, the tavernkeeper, it is decided as follows: 1 The petitioner’s request for the lot and horse mill is granted. Gysbert [aende Berch] is authorized to draw [logs] for the petitioner during eight days, but not to use any mares 

May 1, 1653 

Evert Pels promises by his signature, hereto affixed, that this winter without further delay he will make prompt and full payment in merchantable grain to the director of this colony for all debts remaining unpaid according to the accounts; and in case of his failure to do so, the following contract shall be void and of no effect. O n the date underwritten the honorable Johan Baptista van Rensselaer, director, and the commissioners of the colony of Rensselaerswyck have agreed and contracted with Evert Pels about the lease of the farm used by him to this date and now leased again on the following conditions. 1. The lessee shall use the old plowed land and the other as before. 2. As to the house, barn and barracks, the lessee shall deliver them up in the same condition as he received them, according to the inspection and valuation of competent persons, and Evert Pels shall furnish the carpenter and others wh o are to work on the new barn with meat and drink at his ow n expense and shall furnish all the heavy timber at the place of building, also at his ow n expense without making any charges therefor. As to other materials, such as boards, hardware and the roof which Evert Pels is to furnish for the barn, as well as the wages of the workmen, these shall be at the charge of the lessors. Wha t the lessee advances will be credited to him in the next rent. The lessee must further each year repair the aforesaid buildings and keep them in proper order and on the expiration of the lease deliver them with tight sides and roofs, one half of the risk to be borne by the lessors and the other by the lessee, except in case of general war, in which case the lessee shall not have to bear any of the loss, as aforesaid. 3. The lessee shall take upon himself alone all expenses of whatever nature they may be. 4. The lessee shall have the use of as many animals as there are on the farm at present, one half of the increase to be his on condition that he do not sell or remove his share without consent of the authorities here. There have been delivered to him 17horses and 17 cows. 5. At the expiration of his lease, the lessee shall turn over the seeded land to the next tenant upon an appraisal to be made in the latter part of May. 6. And during the first years of his lease, he shall spread the manure over the land and cut down or kill the trees which stand in the way. 7. The lessee shall pay promptly each year, as rent of the aforesaid farm, in addition to the tithes, 400 guilders in merchantable grain, wheat at 10 and oats at four guilders a mudde, the toepacht being the same as on other farms. 8. The lease runs for the next four consecutive years, commencing on the first of May 1653. 9. It is further agreed that Evert Pels for the use of the water power and the logs for the two mills shall promptly pay each year 125 guilders in merchantable boards, the period commencing and ending as above. 10. The lessee must provide two sufficient sureties for the rent and the fulfilment of the contract. 11. For all that is written above, Evert pels and his sureties pledge their respective possessions, movable and immovable, now owned or to be acquired hereafter, none excepted, submitting them to the honorable court of the aforesaid colony or wherever it may be convenient to the lessors. 12 .Finally, the lessee promises to conduct himself quietly, faithfully and diligently, to observe all proper laws as an obedient subject and to pay proper respect to the director and commissioners as his lawful superiors. In confirmation whereof, the lessee and the sureties have ratified this by their signatures. Agreed as above. Wa signed: Jan Baptist van Rensselaer, Anthonius de Hooges, as commissioners, Evert Pels. 

June 6, 1653 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, defendant. Defendant’s first default. Claes Jacobsz, plaintiff, against Claes Comelisz Croon, defendant, for a year’s rent of a house standing at the Manhatans, hired by defendant, Claes Rips and Frans [left blank], for the sum of one hundred guilders, to be paid by them [jointly and] severally, and due on the 27th day of March 1652. The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the sum of one hundred guilders within the space of three weeks, on pain of attachment. 

June 10, 1653 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, defendant. Defendant’s first default. Claes Jacobsz, plaintiff, against Claes Comelisz Croon, defendant, for a year’s rent of a house standing at the Manhatans, hired by defendant, Claes Rips and Frans [left blank], for the sum of one hundred guilders, to be paid by them [jointly and] severally, and due on the 27th day of March 1652. The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the sum of one hundred guilders within the space of three weeks, on pain of attachment. 

January 13, 1654 

Evert Pels requests this honorable court that whereas by balance of accounts fl276:7:- is due him from Jan van Bremen, the latter’s property at Katskill may remain attached until he first and before all [others] shall have been paid. There being likewise due to the Hon. Pieter Hertgerts from the said Jan van Bremen the sum of fl270:-, he requests that he may be promptly paid as soon as Evert Pels shall have been paid. And there being due to Willem Fredrixsz Bout from the aforesaid Jan Dirrixsz van Bremen about three hundred guilders, he requests that the first two persons being paid he may and shall then, upon production of proper proof, be paid for one-third. Which requests being approved, they are communicated to Jan Dirrixsz van Bremen by letter, to regulate himself accordingly in paying the persons who had his property attached. 

June 16, 1654 

Jan Adriaensen, plaintiff, against Evert Pels, defendant, for the sum of forty-four beavers and six otters, amounting together to the sum of four hundred guilders, in part payment of which the plaintiff, or his agent, has accepted an account against the hon. company for wages earned by the defendant, according to a power of attorney given to Jan Jansz van Gottenborg in favor of Willem Honttum. The aforesaid account amounts to two hundred eighty-five guilders, four stivers, so that there is still due to the plaintiff on account of his master, Willem Honttum, or whomever it may concern, the sum of one hundred fourteen guilders, sixteen stivers. The court having heard the statements and arguments on both sides, is of opinion that the defendant must pay to the plaintiff the sum of one hundred fourteen guilders, sixteen stivers before the departure of the first ship from this country for patria, the above-mentioned account of fl285:4-, shown to this court and accepted in payment by the plaintiff or his attorney according to the signature, serving to make up the payment in full. 

August 11, 1654 

In response to a communication from the hon. director general, the hon. commissary and Jan Verbeeck are appointed a committee [to confer with him] in accordance with the commission and instructions to be given to their honors. [The court] having heard the report of the honorable committee, consisting of the commissary and Jan Verbeeck, [appointed to go] to the Esopus to measure the lands there, and having furthermore examined the petition of Evert Pels, stating that the lands bought by them looked to the eye larger than they were actually found to be and requesting that he. Evert Pels, may be allowed to purchase some of the land which the hon. general intends to keep for himself, it is decided that the committee, when it goes to the Manathans, is to confer about the matter there and exhibit the aforesaid petition. Whereas some Indians, both Maquas and Sinneken have this day, according to ancient custom, made a present to this court, it is, in order to give them some powder in return, thought proper to present them among other things with 25 pounds of powder. The Hon. Abraham Staets is therefore requested to let them have the same from the hon. company’s powder which is in his honor’s custody, provided that he shall be discharged by this court from the obligation to account for it to the hon. general and hereafter communicate to his honor the contents of the present. The aforesaid Indians have furthermore made some propositions to which answer in proper form was made. 

June 9, 1654 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Jan Fransen van Hoesem, defendant, on account of fl62:-, which the defendant owes the plaintiff for the delivery of planks. The court orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the aforesaid sum of sixty-two guilders, according to the note, within the space of twice twenty-four hours, on pain of attachment. 

November 16, 1654 

…appeared before me Johannes Dyckman….his house standing in Manathans and the lot thereto belonging, lying on the broad or public way, as he the aforesaid Claes Hendrickse bought the same from Jan Peck citizen of Manathans, which aroresaid house adjoins on the north on Evert Pels…. 

March 16, 1655 

The honorable schout of the colony of Rensselaerswijck, plaintiff, against Claes Hendrixsz Timmerman, defendant, about certain interrogatories read to the defendant on account of the wounding of Evert Pels and Gijsbert Comelisz, as appears more fully from the document which is returned to his honor, together with the confession. [Other sources such as VRBM, 833 and 837 indicate that this is Gijsbert Comelissen van Breuckelen and not Van Weesp.] 

April 16, 1655 

Jan Peeck desires to sell at this public sale his two houses, standing and lying in Fort Orange with the garden belonging thereto, all according to the patent thereof. The houses adjoin the fort’s west point, to the east Arent van den Bergh; to the south of the aforesaid fort lies the garden, adjoining to the north the Heer Rensselaer, and to the south a public road….. We, the undersigned, as principals, stand sureties for the aforesaid Joannes Dijckman in the purchase of the two houses, according to the conditions, to stand in his stead in case of failure of payment, and to pay the aforesaid money, for which we pledge our goods, personal and real, according to law. Done this 16th of April 1655 in Beverwijck. As witnesses, Claes Hendryckse Pieter Rijverdi Willem Pietersen Evert Pels 

April 27, 1655 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant, because Pieter Bronck, in spite of the attachment of the property in the hands of Jan van Breemen, has not paid but removed the grain that was attached. The defendant, that is to say, the plaintiff, refers to the testimony of Arent de Noorman and Marcelis Jansz, who were present in Katskill and whom the plaintiff may cause to be subpoenaed on the next court day. 

April 27, 1655 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant, because Pieter Bronck, notwithstanding the three attachments that were issued against the grain in the possession of Jan van Bremen, has not paid, but removed the grain thence. The plaintiff refers for corroboration of his statements to the testimony of Arent Andries and Marcelis Jansz, who being absent, but having been with the plaintiff at Katskill, may again be summoned to appear on the next court day to give further testimony in the matter as is proper. 

April 29, 1655 

Jan Peeck to Evert Pels, of Renselaerswyck – East side of Broadway, near Exchange Place.  A lot on the east side of the Great Highway, between the lots of Governor Stuyvesant on the north side and Claes Hendricksen on the south side. In breadth on the highway, 2 1/2 rods 8 ½ feet, or 33 running feet; in rear the same; in depth, 18 rods 2 feet 5 inches 6 peppercorns; on which property said Pels has built a house. Being part of premises patented 13th July,1643, to Cornells Volkertsen, deceased, whose widow Jan Peeck has married. 

February 5, 1655 

At the house of Marselis Jansz. Comelis Wouterse desires to sell at this public sale the following goods upon these conditions; namely: the payment shall be made within the period of three weeks, or at the outside one month, in good whole beavers. The buyer shall be obligated to furnish security for the above payment to the satisfaction of the seller, and failing to do so, the articles shall again be auctioned off at his cost and charge. Moreover, the seller rejects any reduction or increase of price for any reason whatever after the sale.-:Evert Pels, a gun 

1656 

July 13, 1643 originally to Cornelis Volckersen. His widow married Jan Peeck. April 29, 1655, Jan Peeck to Evert Pels. (Lib. A, Deeds, N. Y. Co.: 17.) E. side Great Highway, bet. lots belonging on N. side to Director General P. Stuyvesant; S. side to C. Hendricks; br. in front of road or W. side, 2},^ r., >2 ft. or 33 running ft.; in rear on E. side, like br.; long on both N. and S. sides, same as other lots, according to gr-br., 18 r., 2 ft., 5 ins. and 6 peppercorns.  Evert Pels, of Rensselaerswyck, erected this house in 1656, shortly after the Heere Dwars Straet (now Exchange Place) was cut through. It stood on the north-east corner of Exchange Place and Broadway. Augustine Herrman bought the house and garden in October of this year. — Liber Deeds, A: 76. .  

March 16, 1656  

Claes Hendricksen, house carpenter of Fort Orange, to Philip Pietersen Schuyler, of Fort Orange. – East side of Broadway near Exchange Place 

Two houses and lots on the east side of the great highway, between the house and lots of Evert Pels and Jan Gerritsen, mason, as great and small, broad and long, as they belong to said Hendricksen, according to deed to him from Jan Peeck, 29th April, 1655. 

October 25, 1656 

Evert Pels, of Rensselaerswyck, to Augustyn Heerman. East side of Broadway, near Exchange Place. A house and lot on the east side of the Great Highway between lots of Hon. Petrus Stuyvesant, on the north, and the old house of Philip Schuyler, through which the street is laid out; on the south, dimensions as in deed from Jan Peeck to said Evert Pels, of 29th April, 1655. 

August 2, 1657 

Joannes Dyckman (recorder), Eevert Pels – 2,000 beavers, sent down from here. 

November 7, 1657 

There appeared before me, Johannes La Montagne, commissary at Fort Orange and the village of Beverwijck and dependencies thereof, Jan Gillissen Kock, who declares that on the last of the month October, being on the yacht of Evert Pels, he heard that Jan van Breemen was among the farmers in Katskill [looking] for fodder for the cattle, which were in the yacht of the aforesaid Evert Pels, and said that there was no fodder to be had for the cattle, six in number, because the kil was dry; and he had taken two men with him, namely, the farmer from his farm and Gerrit Segersen, in order to drive the cattle over land to Fort Orange, whereupon Trijntie Juriaensen asked the aforesaid Jan van Breemen if there was no fodder anywhere in the country to be had with a wagon? Whereupon he, Jan van Breemen, answered, “Let the devil haul it overland!” Also that he said to Tryntie Jurriaensen, “Should we let the animals die of hunger or should he let them be driven overland to Fort Orange.” Whereupon the aforesaid Trijntie Jurriaensen said, “Is there no danger for the animals from Indians or otherwise?” Jan van Breemen answered, “I will risk the danger for a guilder,” and they brought them out of the yacht and they ran away, so that they were not to be found, which he attests to be true and will confirm the same with an oath, if so required. Done in Fort Orange, the 7th of November 1657, in the presence of J. Provoost and Nataniel Pietersen. 

March 14, 1658 

The two mills shall be delivered to the buyer with their appurtenances. With the upper mill there ^hall be delivered an iron crank, an iron pinion, an iron rack and two marking irons. With the lower mill there shall be delivered a wooden wheel, an iron rack and an iron crank. For both mills shall be delivered 10 saws such as they are, sixteen iron bars, two peaveys, two cant hooks, three files, eight racks, a saw-set, a pair of iron sledge hammers, two axes. The buyer shall be holden to carry out the contract made between the patroon and the seller. The buyer shall have the right of the road from the upper mill as it has been used bv the seller without damage to the farm. Delivery of the aforesaid mills shall be made tomorrow, being the 15th of March. Payment shall be made in two instalments, the first on the 15th of June Ao. 1658, in good, whole, merchantable beavers, the second on the 15th of June Ao. 1659, in good, merchantable seawan at fl. 10 the beaver. The buyer shall be holden to furnish two sufficient sureties within 24 hours to the satisfaction of the seller. If the buyer does not furnish sufficient sureties within said time, then the mills shall be sold again at his charge and expense and whatever less they shall bring he shall be holden to make good and whatever more they shall bring he shall not benefit by. The auction fees shall be charged to the buyer. Whoever shall be the buyer shall have the privilege of buying the seller’s logs for so much as the cost him in cutting, drawing and other expense, to be paid in boards. 

March 14, 1658 

First, the house shall be delivered tn the buyer as it stands, with all that is fast by earth and nail, about 39 or 40 feet in length, hing next the house of Jacob Schermerhoorn and J. van Twillert. The delivery shall be made tomorrow, being the 15th of March. The payment shall be made in two instalments, the first on the 15th of June Ao. 1658, one-half in good, whole, deliverable beavers and the other half in good, merchantable seawan, and the second payment on the 15th of June Ao. 1659, one-half also in good whole, deliverable beavers and the other half in good, merchantable seawan at ten guilders a beaver. The buyer shall be holden to furnish two sufficient sureties, jointly and severally [liable] as principals, to the satisfaction of the seller, within 24 hours. If the buyer can not furnish sufficient sureties within said time, then the premises shall be sold again at his expense and charge, and whatever less they shall bring, he shall bc holden to make good and whatever more they shall bring shall not be to his profit. The auction fees shall be charged to the buyer. [not sold] 

September 3, 1658 

The Hon. Commander, Pltif. against Christoffel Davidsen, Deft. Plaintiff says, that an affidavit, made at the Esopus, has been handed to him, according to which Defendant came from the Manhatans in the yacht of Evert Pels and, when they were in the Highlands, said to two savages, who had come on board, that the Sachem, meaning the Hon, General, had killed at the Manhatans 4 savages and that he would come to the Esopus during the following night and break the necks of all the savages there, whereupon the savages of the Esopus took some Christians prisoners and committed a great deal of mischief. The Hon. Plaintiff asks therefore, that Defendant be examined by an interrogatory. Defendant pleads not guilty and produces two affidavits, one from Henderich van Dych and one from Dirck Jansen, a skipper, who attest, that, while they were in the Highlands, two savages came on board, who asked Cbristoffel Davids, whether the Sachem would come and kill all the savages in the Esopus and the Highlands and Christoffel Davids answered: I know nothing about it. 

September 3, 1658 

The honorable officer, plaintiff, against Christoffel Davids, defendant. The plaintiff says that an affidavit from the Esopus has been handed to him, according to which the defendant, coming from the Manhatans in the yacht of Evert Pels and while being in the Highlands, said to two Indians who came on board that the Sachem, to wit, the honorable general, had killed the Indians at the Manhatans and that the following night he would come to the Esopus and there also break the necks of the Indians, whereupon the Indians of the Esopus took some Christian prisoners and committed great outrages. The honorable plaintiff therefore requests that the defendant be examined by interrogatory. Interrogatory of Christoffel Davids, held at the request of the honorable officer before the honorable magistrates of the said court. 1. How old he is and where born? [94] 2. Whether, in coming from the Manhatans and being in the Highlands, he did not call out or say that the Dutch in the night on the 23d of August had killed many Indians at the Manhatans and that the following night they would come to the Esopus and break the necks of the Indians there? Answers, 42 years and born in the Bishopric in England. Answers, No, but that he said to the Indians who were on board, “I know nothing about that.” The defendant pleads not guilty and produces two affidavits, one from Henderick v. Dijck and the other from Dirck Janssen, skipper, who attest that while they were in the Highlands two Indians came on board, who asked Christoffel Davids whether the Sachem would come and kill all the Indians in the Esopus and the Highlands? Whereupon Christoffel Davids answered: “I know nothing about it.” 

February 19, 1659 

Appeared before me, Johannes La Montague, in the service of the General Chartered West India Company commissary at Fort Orange and the village of Beverwyck, Evert Pels, who declared in the presence of the hereinafter named witnesses that he had constituted and appointed, as he hereby does constitute and appoint, the Honorable Capt. Jan Jacobsen his attorney, in the principal’s name and on his behalf to procure the freedom of Marritien Symons, sister of the principal’s wife, dwelling in the city of New Amstel on the South river with one Pieter Pietersen Herder, in such manner as the attorney may judge best; promising to hold good and valid whatever the attorney shall do in this matter as if he, the principal, were himself present, for which he binds his person and estate, real and personal, submitting the same to all courts and judges. Done in Fort Orange, the 19th of February Ao. 1659, in presence of Johannes Provoost and Jan Pietersen Muller. 

March 17, 1659 

ppeared before me, Johannes La Montagne, in the service of the General Chartered West India Company commissary at Fort Orange and the village of Beverwyck, in the presence of Jan Tomassen and Adriaen Gerritsen, magistrates of said jurisdiction, Willem Fredricksz, burgher and inhabitant of said village, who declared that he had conveyed, as he hereby does grant and convey, in real and actual possession, to the behoof of Evert Pels, inhabitant of the colony of Rencelaerswyck, his heirs and assigns, a house, lot and garden lying in the aforesaid village; the lot whereon the house stands has heretofore been used as a garden, as mentioned in the patent, and adjoins northerly Volckert Janssen, southerly Sander Leendersen, westerly the wagon road and easterly the path at the river; length eleven rods and breadth four rods and two feet; the garden is in length and breadth as slated in the conveyance made by Sander Leendersen to the grantor; and that for two sawmills standing and lying in the colony of Rencelaerswyck, on the east side of the river, behind the greene bosch; 33 the parties to this exchange mutually promising to warrant each other against all claims and demands which may arise on either side; for which they bind their persons and estates, real and personal, present and future, submitting the same to all courts and judges. Done in Fort Orange, the 17th of March Ao. 1659. This is the mark X of Willem Fredricksz, Evert Pels 

April 27, 1659 

On this 27th day of April 1659 appeared before the honorable commissary Johan de la Montagne, Comelis Theunisz van Breuckelen and Evert Pels who offered surety, according to the judgment of the court, for the fine of Evert Nolden who was indicted by Pieter Jansz as appears in his own hand, dated as above. Acknowledged by his own signature at Fort Orange. Corn. Theunisz. Evert Pels 

May 1659 

MR ARENT VAN CURLER MONsr MON COSYN, SALUTE! To carry out my promise made at our leave taking, this serves [to let you know] that (although I had it among [my] portion,380 says Jan Verbeeck) I have this day been at Bethlehem with Evert Pels to look over the stallions of Jan Helmess, from which Evert picked out the best. But when we were to agree about giving him the sneJ)er381 in exchange, the nearest we could come to an agreement was that he wanted to have fl. 50 to boot for the choice of the three stallions, so that this trade fell through, but we shall postpone the matter until your return. The transplanting of the apple trees in your orchard has also taken place. I could not be present all day, as they were transplanted today, but I was there this morning and showed them how they must be set out exactly in line. The old holes have been completely cleared away. 

July 15, 1659 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Jan Martensen, defendant. The plaintiff demands of the defendant 20 beavers by balance of accounts, arising from the purchase of 5 aams of brandy. The defendant denies having received 5 aams, but admits having received 4, for which 5 beavers are still due to the plaintiff. The honorable court, having heard the parties on both sides, orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the 5 beavers which he acknowledges being due. As to the remaining 15 beavers claimed by the plaintiff, the plaintiff is to swear to his book, and if he refuses, the defendant is to do the same on the next court day. 

July 16, 1659 

Appeared before me Johanned La Montagne, clerk of Fort Orange and Village of Beverwyck, Evert Pels, who declared that he was honestly indebted to Mr. Hendrick Van Duck, in the number of fifteen whole merchantable beavers, remaining from an obligation. Done in Fort Orange. 

September 9, 1659 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Jan Martensen, defendant. The plaintiff demands from the defendant 20 beavers by balance of accounts arising from the purchase of 5 aams of brandy, in regard to which judgment was put off on the last court day, being the 15 th of July, until the next court day. Whereas the defendant denies having received 5 aams of brandy, but admits that he received 4 aams, it is requested that the case be put over to the next court day, to be decided by the oath of the parties, the plaintiff to have the preference and upon his refusal [to take the oath], the privilege of taking the oath to be extended to the defendant.