Nina Postupack, County Clerk

Opening of the Dutch Court at Wiltwyck, 1661


Translation:

On July 12, 1661
First ordinary meeting held at Wildtwyck has resolved by the Schepens here present to hold and convene Court on Tuesday and see frequently every two weeks, till further orders of the Director-General and Council of New Amsterdam.

On the same date Sergeant Christiaen Nissen Romp informs us that while there is no grain to be had for the military Pieter Van Alin, the shoemaker, is exporting some wheat. This point is discussed and it is resolved that the shoemaker shall offer his remaining grain to the sergeant Christiaen Nissen Romp, provided the latter pays on delivery.

On the same date Schout and Schepenen appointed one Jacob Joosten, as well for all kinds of church services as also for the service of the Court. He is made and appointed Courtmessenger, but only provisionally, until further orders of the Director-General, and shall receive for one year two hundred guilders in zeewant [wampum].

Note: "Today, the 12th of July, Anno 1661, held the first ordinary meeting at Wiltwyck."
Wiltwyck was granted a formal charter in 1661, issuing laws and establishing a Justices' Court. Justice continues to be administered in that general vicinity to this very day at the Ulster County Courthouse.

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