Philip Pieterse Schuyler

Born in a modest family of a German-born baker, Philip emigrated to New Netherland with his younger brother. Soon after the arrival, he married Margarita Van Slichtenhorst and successfully entered the upper echelon of colonial society while he was still in his early twenties.

Settling in Beverwyck, Philip who was originally a carpenter became involved in the lucrative fur trade. By 1660 he was one of the principal traders of the community. Profits obtained in trade he used to acquire additional real estate. Among other things, he acquired land along the Hudson north of the Van Rensselaer manor house, houses and lots in New Amsterdam, several hundred acres east of the Hudson and below Rensselaerswyck, and lots in Wiltwyck and at the Halfmoon as well.

Philip was also involved in the public life and was considered among Albany's foremost inhabitants. Eventually, the name of Schuyler became known as one of the oldest and wealthiest Dutch families of New York.