Document: Declaration of Jan Jansen of Ham that sergeant Marten Ael left his house and lot on Manhattan Island to Marten Crigier

Before me, Cornelis van Tienhoven, secretary of New Netherland, appeared Jan Jansz, of Ham, corporal in Johan de Vries’ company, who at the request of Marten Crigier attests, testifies and declares, in place and with promise of a solemn oath if necessary and required, that it is true that sergeant Marten Ael lying in bed wounded in the night between the 5th and 6th of March, in full possession of his understanding and memory, of his own free will left, devised and bequeathed his house and lot situated on the island of Manhatans to the above mentioned Marten Crigier, and whereas he, the deponent, and Marten Crigier were that night alone with him, the deponent ran for sergeant Douman and Hudden also to have a knowledge of it. Coming there, Marten Ael was quite weak and could not speak and finally slept in the Lord. All of which the deponent declares to be true and that this is done by him to bear witness of the truth, without benefit or detriment, particular hatred or favor to any one. In token of the truth this is signed by the deponent in presence of the fiscal and moreover confirmed by oath. Done the 10th of March anno 1645, in Fort Amsterdam, New Netherland.

Jan Jansz
Cornelio vander Hoykens
Cornelis van Tienhoven