Translation
Commission of Cornelis Steenwyck to be captain, N. Bayard lieutenant, and Gabriel Minviele ensign of the burgher corps of New Orange
Anthony Colve, Governor-General of New Netherland for their High Mightinesses the Lords States-General of the United Netherlands and his Serene Highness the Prince of Orange.
To all who shall see these presents or hear them read. Greeting, make known:
Whereas for the reinforcement of the militia of the city New Orange it has been
considered necessary to enlist another company of infantry under the command of
Councillor Cornelis Steenwyck, heretofore Captain of horse, therefore by virtue of
the commission and authority of their said High Mightinesses and his Serene Highness
the Prince of Orange, I have chosen, constituted and commissioned said Mr. Cornelis
Steenwyck, Captain of said company of militia, hereby giving to said Captain Cornelis
Steenwyck full authority and special commission to command, and keep in good order
and military discipline said company; ordering and directing furthermore all
officers, privates and burghers of the abovenamed city, and especially those of said
company already, or yet to be, enlisted to acknowledge said Mr. Cornelis Steenwyck as
their Captain and to submit to all his military orders and discipline. For such have
I deemed necessary for the public service and the better reinforcement of this
city.
Dated Fort Willem Hendrick this 22nd December, 1673.
A similar commission is also issued to Lieutenant Nicolaes Bayard and Ensign Gabriel Minviele of the same company.