Volckert Janse Douw

Before his arrival to New Netherlands in 1638, Volckert Janse Douw have made a carrer in the Dutch army where he held a rank of an officer. Soon after the arrival to Rensselaerswyck he married Dorothe Van Breestede lying the foundation of the Douw family of early Albany.

By 1660 Volckert settled with his family in Beverwyck where he established fur trading business and owned an Albany brewery. With the realized profits Volckert was able to purchase substantial lands in various parts of the Hudson Valley. Besides of being a successful entrepreneur, Volckert was also a prominent public figure. He served as an Albany magistrate both the Dutch and English, an Indian commissioner and representative in court. He was also a member and deacon at the Albany Dutch church.

Volckert’s home in Albany remained the family property for the generations, and was known as "Douw's Corner" into the 19th century.