Research

Translation

Declaration of Jan Pietersen about slanderous words spoken by Jan Snediger to Marritke Lives

Series:
Scanned Document:

Before me, Cornelis van Tienhoven, secretary of New Netherland, appeared Jan Pietersz, alias Jan Maet,[1] aged about 33 years, who at the request of Marritjen Lives attests, testifies and declares, in place and with promise of a solemn oath if need be and required, that it is true and truthful that last Monday, about four o’clock in the afternoon, Jan Snediger said to Marritjen Lives: “You old whore, I do not furnish lodgings to any villains or thieves, as you do.” Whereupon Marritjen said: “You lie like a villain.” All of which he offers to confirm on oath. Done the 2nd of March anno 1644, in Fort Amsterdam, New Netherland.

Jan Pitersz
Cornelis van Tienhoven
A common nickname for a sailor, corresponding to “Jack Tar.” In O’Callaghan’s translation it is rendered as “Comrade John,” and in the calendar entry for this document as “Friend John.”

References

Translation: Scott, K., & Stryker-Rodda, K. (Ed.). New York Historical Manuscripts: Dutch, Vol. 2, Register of the Provincial Secretary, 1642-1647 (A. Van Laer, Trans.). Baltimore: Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc.: 1974.A complete copy of this publication is available on the New Netherland Institute website.