Gerrit was born at Beemster, a northern suburb of Amsterdam, Holland, and died in September or October 1698. Records link him as being a son of Hendrick Van Sweringen (from Ghent, Holland), who was possibly related to the House of Nassau and Orange.
Gerrit was married (firstly) on March 1, 1659/60, at New Amstel, New Netherland (New Castle, Delaware), to Barbarah De Barrette (born in 1639, at Valenciennes, France, died in 1670, at Saint Mary's City, Maryland). Barbarah was from an area in northern France called the Walloon section of the old Seventeen United Netherlands. She was a Huguenot, and she may have had a brother named Isaac.
Gerrit was married (secondly) in October 1676, in St. Mary's County, Maryland, to Mary Smith (born in 1660, died circa August 1713, in St. Marys County, Maryland), the daughter of Hugh Smith. Mary was from St. Marys County. She and Garrett signed their ante nuptial agreement October 5, 1676. Mary wrote her will February 17, 1712, and it was proved September 5, 1713.
Maryland Archives records (volumes II, V, VI, VII, VIII, XIII, XV, XVII, XIX) and Documents to the Colonial History of New York (volumes II, III, XII) frequently mention Gerrit. His forename is mostly found in early records spelled Gerrit.
When the Dutch West India Company sent the ship, "du Prince Maurits," to the new world the known to be well-educated Gerrit was appointed as Super-Cargo of the vessel (an officer of a merchant ship whose duty is to manage the commercial concerns of the voyage). The Prince Maurice sailed from the port of Amsterdam, Holland December 21, 1656, carrying supplies to the Dutch colony of New Amstel, located on the Delaware River. On the night of March 8, 1657 the ship grounded off Fire Island, near the coast of Long Island (New York). The crew and passengers got to shore the next day. They were without fire for two days in freezing weather. On the third day friendly Indians who were employed as messengers by the Dutch West India Company came by and carried word to Governor Peter Stuyvesant at New Amsterdam. Stuyvesant arrived in a sloop, taking everyone to New Amsterdam, where they remained several weeks. Part of the cargo was salvaged before the ship broke-up on the rocks. At New Amsterdam another ship, named "Beaver," was chartered, and those of the Prince Maurice sailed from there on April 16, 1657. They arrived at "South River" (Delaware River) settlement on April 21, 1657, where they landed and took possession of the Fort on April 25, 1657, and established the town of New Amstel (now called New Castle).
On May 28, 1657 Gerrit was a Councilman and was recommended for the office of Commissary-General for the City of New Amsterdam. On November 26, 1659 he was appointed Sheriff, and in December 1659 he was appointed a Councilor at New Amstel under the Governor (Director-General) of New Netherland, Peter Stuyvesant.
On August 30, 1660 permission was granted to Gerrit and his wife to return to Holland, where they remained about one year, handling the interests of the colony. On August 27, 1661 the City of New Amstel having determined to continue as a colony, Gerrit was again appointed Councilor. He was a Commissioner to Holland from New Amstel for 1661-1662. He was called "Honorable President" in a letter from Councilman William Beekman to Peter Stuyvesant in 1663. He was also active in cultivating some low lands, a duck pond, and in trade goods.
In 1664 Gerrit (as High Sheriff), Delaware Colonial Governor de Henoysa, and New Amstel Town Clerk Alrichs comprised the ruling body of the Delaware Colony. Unbeknownst to them, England had made a deal with the Dutch, swapping a large tract of land located on the northeast coast of South America (Dutch Guiana - Surinam) in exchange for the Dutch Colonies in North America. When an English warship sailed up the Delaware River and demanded the colony be turned over to them, the ruling body retired to the fort and opened fire on the English vessel. The English landed a large force, which captured the town and demanded the surrender of the fort. Unable to realistically defend themselves they surrendered. The fort, town of New Amstel, and the surrounding country was brought under the rule of the Englishman Sir William Carr. In a document of protest Gerrit wrote that Sir Robert Carr confiscated 100 sheep, 30-40 horses 50-60 cows and oxen, 60-70 Negro slaves from the inhabitants of New Amstel, as well as the estates and most of the personal property of the Governor and Gerrit. Gerrit got away with only 1 Negro and some household items. He was permitted to sell some of his furniture. Carr then banished the three Dutch officials.
Gerrit was understandably agitated and renounced his allegiance to the Dutch,
Declared his allegiance to the English, dropped the Van from his surname, accommodated their spelling and pronunciations by Anglicizing it by adding an ‘a,’ changed the spelling of his forename to Garrett and moved his family to Saint Mary's City, St. Marys County, Maryland. This was the first settlement and capital of Maryland. Garrett petitioned Lord Baltimore, who had welcomed them, for naturalization as English subjects, which was granted by act of the General Assembly on May 8, 1669. This was an important event since only English subjects could own land. Garrett became active in town and government affairs. In the first charter granted Saint Mary's City in 1668 Cecil Calvert, second Lord Baltimore, appointed Garrett one of the first four Aldermen (law maker) of the city. In the charter of 1671, granted by Governor Charles Calvert, the positions of mayor, common council and a board of 4 aldermen were created. He was an Alderman for the county for 1684-1685 and 1688.
The aldermen and mayor were each granted one-acre lots, lying adjacent to each other, along the riverbank. Saint Mary's City comprised one square mile and 13 dwellings (each on a one acre lot). The four aldermen lived along a dirt road known as Aldermanbury Street. This street was built as a road leading from Leonard Calvert's house (the site of the Assembly Council, Provincial Court and his private home) to the landing dock at the St. Marys River. It ran to the village crossroads in 1676 and was the main street of town by 1680.
In 1670/2 Garrett built a fine home on his lot on the banks of the St. Marys River. By 1690 his home had grown to a large extended rambling building. The family occupied this home until 1730. In June 1674 he was paid 800 pounds of tobacco for building the city's stocks and whipping post. The meetings of the Upper House of the Maryland Assembly were held in Garrett's tavern house in Saint Mary's City from 1680 to 1692.
On May 4, 1686, and again May 12, 1687 he was appointed High Sheriff of St. Marys County. On March 12, 1687 he was appointed to the Maryland Council as one of the three Commissioners constituting a special court trying the case of a vessel and it's cargo of goods and merchandise accused of transgressing "His Majesty's" shipping and navigation laws.
Garrett took part in the court disputes between colonial governors in 1681, 1692 and 1693. He again was a member of the Council in 1694. He owned property in both Talbot and St. Marys Counties. He owned 50 acres of land in St. Marys County known as "Sweringen's Point," and a 1500-acre plantation located south of Saint Mary’s City named St. Elizabeth’s Manor. He also owned Smith's Town House, used as the first state house. It burned down in 1677 and Garrett rebuilt it of brick. It is still standing, as a national historic landmark.
Garrett wrote his will March 25, 1698, it was proved on October 25, 1698, and filed February 4, 1699. According to his wishes he was to be buried in consecrated ground with the full rites of the Catholic Church.
In 1975 archaeologists began searching for the corners of his home. This was done in order to locate Aldermanbury Street, the street being the key to the entire layout of old Saint Mary's City. Locating the street would then aid in locating the known original buildings. In 1975 they uncovered the original building. In 1977 they located a little out building. In 1979 they located a cellar, more of the out building and a pigpen. Excavating Garrett's house yielded a wealth of exotic pottery, including the only complete ceramic vessel ever discovered at St. Mary's; a type indicating Garrett was very wealthy, among the top 5 percent, and held a high social status.
Children:
1. Elizabeth: born circa 1661, New Amstel, Delaware, died 1736, St. Marys County, Maryland. married (firstly) John Evans (died 1710). married (secondly) Jacob Williams (died 1725). Her will proved December 6, 1736.
2. Zacharias: born circa 1663, New Amstel, Delaware, died 1711, Saint Mary's City, Maryland. married Martha Devine. His will was proved April 4, 1712, St. Marys County, Maryland.
3. Thomas: born circa 1665, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1710, Prince Georges County, Maryland.
4. Gerrit: born circa 1667, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died July 9, 1752, St. Marys County, Maryland.
5. Anne: born circa 1678, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1727. married William Bladen.
6. Mary Maria: born circa 1680, died 1709. married Martin Kirk.
7. Joseph: born 1682, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1720. married pre-April 9, 1715, Mary Neale-Egerton (born 1683), daughter of James Neale and Elizabeth Calvert, granddaughter of Lord Baltimore. Mary remarried to --- Denton.
8. Charles: born circa 1684, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died pre-1713.
9. Dorothy: born circa 1686, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1728.
10. Eleanor: born circa 1688, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1723. married James King Carroll.
11. Sarah: born circa 1690, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died pre-1712. married Gerard Slye.
12. Theresa: born circa 1692, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1753. married (firstly) John Parke. married (secondly) Robert Ford.∼Gerret Vanswearingen was born in 1636, in Reensterdwan (or Beemsterdam), Holland. When he was about twenty years old, the Dutch government appointed Gerret "supercargo" on the "Prince Maurice" which was to go to New Amstel, DE (now New Castle) in support of the Dutch colonist there. The ship sailed on 25 December 1656, but was severely damaged by storms near the end of the journey. The 180 passengers went ashore at Long Island on March 8, 1657.
Gerret married Barbarah de Barrette in 1659 at New Amstel. Shortly after their marriage, Garret and Barbarah returned to Holland where Gerret served as one of the "counsell and Comissary Generall for the City of Amsterdam.
Garret and his wife returned to New Amstel around 1661, where he served as clerk, and later served as sheriff.
Issue of Gerret and Barbarah:
Elizabeth Van Swearingen, born 1661, New Amstel, DE - Zacharias Van Swearingen, born 1662, New Amstel, DE; - Thomas Van Swearingen, born 1665, probably in Talbot Co; - Garrot Van Swearingen
In 1670, Barbarah de Barrette died at St. Mary's and six years later, Gerret married Mary Smith.
Garret Vanswearingen died at St. Mary's in 1698 and was buried with Catholic rites in accordance with his will. Mary Smith died in 1713. Garret was Catholic, but his descendants were of the Prostestant faith.
Garret's son, Thomas Vanswearingen , dropped "Van" from his last name - which started the name Swearingen.
Gerrit was married (firstly) on March 1, 1659/60, at New Amstel, New Netherland (New Castle, Delaware), to Barbarah De Barrette (born in 1639, at Valenciennes, France, died in 1670, at Saint Mary's City, Maryland). Barbarah was from an area in northern France called the Walloon section of the old Seventeen United Netherlands. She was a Huguenot, and she may have had a brother named Isaac.
Gerrit was married (secondly) in October 1676, in St. Mary's County, Maryland, to Mary Smith (born in 1660, died circa August 1713, in St. Marys County, Maryland), the daughter of Hugh Smith. Mary was from St. Marys County. She and Garrett signed their ante nuptial agreement October 5, 1676. Mary wrote her will February 17, 1712, and it was proved September 5, 1713.
Maryland Archives records (volumes II, V, VI, VII, VIII, XIII, XV, XVII, XIX) and Documents to the Colonial History of New York (volumes II, III, XII) frequently mention Gerrit. His forename is mostly found in early records spelled Gerrit.
When the Dutch West India Company sent the ship, "du Prince Maurits," to the new world the known to be well-educated Gerrit was appointed as Super-Cargo of the vessel (an officer of a merchant ship whose duty is to manage the commercial concerns of the voyage). The Prince Maurice sailed from the port of Amsterdam, Holland December 21, 1656, carrying supplies to the Dutch colony of New Amstel, located on the Delaware River. On the night of March 8, 1657 the ship grounded off Fire Island, near the coast of Long Island (New York). The crew and passengers got to shore the next day. They were without fire for two days in freezing weather. On the third day friendly Indians who were employed as messengers by the Dutch West India Company came by and carried word to Governor Peter Stuyvesant at New Amsterdam. Stuyvesant arrived in a sloop, taking everyone to New Amsterdam, where they remained several weeks. Part of the cargo was salvaged before the ship broke-up on the rocks. At New Amsterdam another ship, named "Beaver," was chartered, and those of the Prince Maurice sailed from there on April 16, 1657. They arrived at "South River" (Delaware River) settlement on April 21, 1657, where they landed and took possession of the Fort on April 25, 1657, and established the town of New Amstel (now called New Castle).
On May 28, 1657 Gerrit was a Councilman and was recommended for the office of Commissary-General for the City of New Amsterdam. On November 26, 1659 he was appointed Sheriff, and in December 1659 he was appointed a Councilor at New Amstel under the Governor (Director-General) of New Netherland, Peter Stuyvesant.
On August 30, 1660 permission was granted to Gerrit and his wife to return to Holland, where they remained about one year, handling the interests of the colony. On August 27, 1661 the City of New Amstel having determined to continue as a colony, Gerrit was again appointed Councilor. He was a Commissioner to Holland from New Amstel for 1661-1662. He was called "Honorable President" in a letter from Councilman William Beekman to Peter Stuyvesant in 1663. He was also active in cultivating some low lands, a duck pond, and in trade goods.
In 1664 Gerrit (as High Sheriff), Delaware Colonial Governor de Henoysa, and New Amstel Town Clerk Alrichs comprised the ruling body of the Delaware Colony. Unbeknownst to them, England had made a deal with the Dutch, swapping a large tract of land located on the northeast coast of South America (Dutch Guiana - Surinam) in exchange for the Dutch Colonies in North America. When an English warship sailed up the Delaware River and demanded the colony be turned over to them, the ruling body retired to the fort and opened fire on the English vessel. The English landed a large force, which captured the town and demanded the surrender of the fort. Unable to realistically defend themselves they surrendered. The fort, town of New Amstel, and the surrounding country was brought under the rule of the Englishman Sir William Carr. In a document of protest Gerrit wrote that Sir Robert Carr confiscated 100 sheep, 30-40 horses 50-60 cows and oxen, 60-70 Negro slaves from the inhabitants of New Amstel, as well as the estates and most of the personal property of the Governor and Gerrit. Gerrit got away with only 1 Negro and some household items. He was permitted to sell some of his furniture. Carr then banished the three Dutch officials.
Gerrit was understandably agitated and renounced his allegiance to the Dutch,
Declared his allegiance to the English, dropped the Van from his surname, accommodated their spelling and pronunciations by Anglicizing it by adding an ‘a,’ changed the spelling of his forename to Garrett and moved his family to Saint Mary's City, St. Marys County, Maryland. This was the first settlement and capital of Maryland. Garrett petitioned Lord Baltimore, who had welcomed them, for naturalization as English subjects, which was granted by act of the General Assembly on May 8, 1669. This was an important event since only English subjects could own land. Garrett became active in town and government affairs. In the first charter granted Saint Mary's City in 1668 Cecil Calvert, second Lord Baltimore, appointed Garrett one of the first four Aldermen (law maker) of the city. In the charter of 1671, granted by Governor Charles Calvert, the positions of mayor, common council and a board of 4 aldermen were created. He was an Alderman for the county for 1684-1685 and 1688.
The aldermen and mayor were each granted one-acre lots, lying adjacent to each other, along the riverbank. Saint Mary's City comprised one square mile and 13 dwellings (each on a one acre lot). The four aldermen lived along a dirt road known as Aldermanbury Street. This street was built as a road leading from Leonard Calvert's house (the site of the Assembly Council, Provincial Court and his private home) to the landing dock at the St. Marys River. It ran to the village crossroads in 1676 and was the main street of town by 1680.
In 1670/2 Garrett built a fine home on his lot on the banks of the St. Marys River. By 1690 his home had grown to a large extended rambling building. The family occupied this home until 1730. In June 1674 he was paid 800 pounds of tobacco for building the city's stocks and whipping post. The meetings of the Upper House of the Maryland Assembly were held in Garrett's tavern house in Saint Mary's City from 1680 to 1692.
On May 4, 1686, and again May 12, 1687 he was appointed High Sheriff of St. Marys County. On March 12, 1687 he was appointed to the Maryland Council as one of the three Commissioners constituting a special court trying the case of a vessel and it's cargo of goods and merchandise accused of transgressing "His Majesty's" shipping and navigation laws.
Garrett took part in the court disputes between colonial governors in 1681, 1692 and 1693. He again was a member of the Council in 1694. He owned property in both Talbot and St. Marys Counties. He owned 50 acres of land in St. Marys County known as "Sweringen's Point," and a 1500-acre plantation located south of Saint Mary’s City named St. Elizabeth’s Manor. He also owned Smith's Town House, used as the first state house. It burned down in 1677 and Garrett rebuilt it of brick. It is still standing, as a national historic landmark.
Garrett wrote his will March 25, 1698, it was proved on October 25, 1698, and filed February 4, 1699. According to his wishes he was to be buried in consecrated ground with the full rites of the Catholic Church.
In 1975 archaeologists began searching for the corners of his home. This was done in order to locate Aldermanbury Street, the street being the key to the entire layout of old Saint Mary's City. Locating the street would then aid in locating the known original buildings. In 1975 they uncovered the original building. In 1977 they located a little out building. In 1979 they located a cellar, more of the out building and a pigpen. Excavating Garrett's house yielded a wealth of exotic pottery, including the only complete ceramic vessel ever discovered at St. Mary's; a type indicating Garrett was very wealthy, among the top 5 percent, and held a high social status.
Children:
1. Elizabeth: born circa 1661, New Amstel, Delaware, died 1736, St. Marys County, Maryland. married (firstly) John Evans (died 1710). married (secondly) Jacob Williams (died 1725). Her will proved December 6, 1736.
2. Zacharias: born circa 1663, New Amstel, Delaware, died 1711, Saint Mary's City, Maryland. married Martha Devine. His will was proved April 4, 1712, St. Marys County, Maryland.
3. Thomas: born circa 1665, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1710, Prince Georges County, Maryland.
4. Gerrit: born circa 1667, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died July 9, 1752, St. Marys County, Maryland.
5. Anne: born circa 1678, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1727. married William Bladen.
6. Mary Maria: born circa 1680, died 1709. married Martin Kirk.
7. Joseph: born 1682, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1720. married pre-April 9, 1715, Mary Neale-Egerton (born 1683), daughter of James Neale and Elizabeth Calvert, granddaughter of Lord Baltimore. Mary remarried to --- Denton.
8. Charles: born circa 1684, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died pre-1713.
9. Dorothy: born circa 1686, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1728.
10. Eleanor: born circa 1688, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1723. married James King Carroll.
11. Sarah: born circa 1690, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died pre-1712. married Gerard Slye.
12. Theresa: born circa 1692, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1753. married (firstly) John Parke. married (secondly) Robert Ford.∼Gerret Vanswearingen was born in 1636, in Reensterdwan (or Beemsterdam), Holland. When he was about twenty years old, the Dutch government appointed Gerret "supercargo" on the "Prince Maurice" which was to go to New Amstel, DE (now New Castle) in support of the Dutch colonist there. The ship sailed on 25 December 1656, but was severely damaged by storms near the end of the journey. The 180 passengers went ashore at Long Island on March 8, 1657.
Gerret married Barbarah de Barrette in 1659 at New Amstel. Shortly after their marriage, Garret and Barbarah returned to Holland where Gerret served as one of the "counsell and Comissary Generall for the City of Amsterdam.
Garret and his wife returned to New Amstel around 1661, where he served as clerk, and later served as sheriff.
Issue of Gerret and Barbarah:
Elizabeth Van Swearingen, born 1661, New Amstel, DE - Zacharias Van Swearingen, born 1662, New Amstel, DE; - Thomas Van Swearingen, born 1665, probably in Talbot Co; - Garrot Van Swearingen
In 1670, Barbarah de Barrette died at St. Mary's and six years later, Gerret married Mary Smith.
Garret Vanswearingen died at St. Mary's in 1698 and was buried with Catholic rites in accordance with his will. Mary Smith died in 1713. Garret was Catholic, but his descendants were of the Prostestant faith.
Garret's son, Thomas Vanswearingen , dropped "Van" from his last name - which started the name Swearingen.
Gerrit was born at Beemster, a northern suburb of Amsterdam, Holland, and died in September or October 1698. Records link him as being a son of Hendrick Van Sweringen (from Ghent, Holland), who was possibly related to the House of Nassau and Orange.
Gerrit was married (firstly) on March 1, 1659/60, at New Amstel, New Netherland (New Castle, Delaware), to Barbarah De Barrette (born in 1639, at Valenciennes, France, died in 1670, at Saint Mary's City, Maryland). Barbarah was from an area in northern France called the Walloon section of the old Seventeen United Netherlands. She was a Huguenot, and she may have had a brother named Isaac.
Gerrit was married (secondly) in October 1676, in St. Mary's County, Maryland, to Mary Smith (born in 1660, died circa August 1713, in St. Marys County, Maryland), the daughter of Hugh Smith. Mary was from St. Marys County. She and Garrett signed their ante nuptial agreement October 5, 1676. Mary wrote her will February 17, 1712, and it was proved September 5, 1713.
Maryland Archives records (volumes II, V, VI, VII, VIII, XIII, XV, XVII, XIX) and Documents to the Colonial History of New York (volumes II, III, XII) frequently mention Gerrit. His forename is mostly found in early records spelled Gerrit.
When the Dutch West India Company sent the ship, "du Prince Maurits," to the new world the known to be well-educated Gerrit was appointed as Super-Cargo of the vessel (an officer of a merchant ship whose duty is to manage the commercial concerns of the voyage). The Prince Maurice sailed from the port of Amsterdam, Holland December 21, 1656, carrying supplies to the Dutch colony of New Amstel, located on the Delaware River. On the night of March 8, 1657 the ship grounded off Fire Island, near the coast of Long Island (New York). The crew and passengers got to shore the next day. They were without fire for two days in freezing weather. On the third day friendly Indians who were employed as messengers by the Dutch West India Company came by and carried word to Governor Peter Stuyvesant at New Amsterdam. Stuyvesant arrived in a sloop, taking everyone to New Amsterdam, where they remained several weeks. Part of the cargo was salvaged before the ship broke-up on the rocks. At New Amsterdam another ship, named "Beaver," was chartered, and those of the Prince Maurice sailed from there on April 16, 1657. They arrived at "South River" (Delaware River) settlement on April 21, 1657, where they landed and took possession of the Fort on April 25, 1657, and established the town of New Amstel (now called New Castle).
On May 28, 1657 Gerrit was a Councilman and was recommended for the office of Commissary-General for the City of New Amsterdam. On November 26, 1659 he was appointed Sheriff, and in December 1659 he was appointed a Councilor at New Amstel under the Governor (Director-General) of New Netherland, Peter Stuyvesant.
On August 30, 1660 permission was granted to Gerrit and his wife to return to Holland, where they remained about one year, handling the interests of the colony. On August 27, 1661 the City of New Amstel having determined to continue as a colony, Gerrit was again appointed Councilor. He was a Commissioner to Holland from New Amstel for 1661-1662. He was called "Honorable President" in a letter from Councilman William Beekman to Peter Stuyvesant in 1663. He was also active in cultivating some low lands, a duck pond, and in trade goods.
In 1664 Gerrit (as High Sheriff), Delaware Colonial Governor de Henoysa, and New Amstel Town Clerk Alrichs comprised the ruling body of the Delaware Colony. Unbeknownst to them, England had made a deal with the Dutch, swapping a large tract of land located on the northeast coast of South America (Dutch Guiana - Surinam) in exchange for the Dutch Colonies in North America. When an English warship sailed up the Delaware River and demanded the colony be turned over to them, the ruling body retired to the fort and opened fire on the English vessel. The English landed a large force, which captured the town and demanded the surrender of the fort. Unable to realistically defend themselves they surrendered. The fort, town of New Amstel, and the surrounding country was brought under the rule of the Englishman Sir William Carr. In a document of protest Gerrit wrote that Sir Robert Carr confiscated 100 sheep, 30-40 horses 50-60 cows and oxen, 60-70 Negro slaves from the inhabitants of New Amstel, as well as the estates and most of the personal property of the Governor and Gerrit. Gerrit got away with only 1 Negro and some household items. He was permitted to sell some of his furniture. Carr then banished the three Dutch officials.
Gerrit was understandably agitated and renounced his allegiance to the Dutch,
Declared his allegiance to the English, dropped the Van from his surname, accommodated their spelling and pronunciations by Anglicizing it by adding an ‘a,’ changed the spelling of his forename to Garrett and moved his family to Saint Mary's City, St. Marys County, Maryland. This was the first settlement and capital of Maryland. Garrett petitioned Lord Baltimore, who had welcomed them, for naturalization as English subjects, which was granted by act of the General Assembly on May 8, 1669. This was an important event since only English subjects could own land. Garrett became active in town and government affairs. In the first charter granted Saint Mary's City in 1668 Cecil Calvert, second Lord Baltimore, appointed Garrett one of the first four Aldermen (law maker) of the city. In the charter of 1671, granted by Governor Charles Calvert, the positions of mayor, common council and a board of 4 aldermen were created. He was an Alderman for the county for 1684-1685 and 1688.
The aldermen and mayor were each granted one-acre lots, lying adjacent to each other, along the riverbank. Saint Mary's City comprised one square mile and 13 dwellings (each on a one acre lot). The four aldermen lived along a dirt road known as Aldermanbury Street. This street was built as a road leading from Leonard Calvert's house (the site of the Assembly Council, Provincial Court and his private home) to the landing dock at the St. Marys River. It ran to the village crossroads in 1676 and was the main street of town by 1680.
In 1670/2 Garrett built a fine home on his lot on the banks of the St. Marys River. By 1690 his home had grown to a large extended rambling building. The family occupied this home until 1730. In June 1674 he was paid 800 pounds of tobacco for building the city's stocks and whipping post. The meetings of the Upper House of the Maryland Assembly were held in Garrett's tavern house in Saint Mary's City from 1680 to 1692.
On May 4, 1686, and again May 12, 1687 he was appointed High Sheriff of St. Marys County. On March 12, 1687 he was appointed to the Maryland Council as one of the three Commissioners constituting a special court trying the case of a vessel and it's cargo of goods and merchandise accused of transgressing "His Majesty's" shipping and navigation laws.
Garrett took part in the court disputes between colonial governors in 1681, 1692 and 1693. He again was a member of the Council in 1694. He owned property in both Talbot and St. Marys Counties. He owned 50 acres of land in St. Marys County known as "Sweringen's Point," and a 1500-acre plantation located south of Saint Mary’s City named St. Elizabeth’s Manor. He also owned Smith's Town House, used as the first state house. It burned down in 1677 and Garrett rebuilt it of brick. It is still standing, as a national historic landmark.
Garrett wrote his will March 25, 1698, it was proved on October 25, 1698, and filed February 4, 1699. According to his wishes he was to be buried in consecrated ground with the full rites of the Catholic Church.
In 1975 archaeologists began searching for the corners of his home. This was done in order to locate Aldermanbury Street, the street being the key to the entire layout of old Saint Mary's City. Locating the street would then aid in locating the known original buildings. In 1975 they uncovered the original building. In 1977 they located a little out building. In 1979 they located a cellar, more of the out building and a pigpen. Excavating Garrett's house yielded a wealth of exotic pottery, including the only complete ceramic vessel ever discovered at St. Mary's; a type indicating Garrett was very wealthy, among the top 5 percent, and held a high social status.
Children:
1. Elizabeth: born circa 1661, New Amstel, Delaware, died 1736, St. Marys County, Maryland. married (firstly) John Evans (died 1710). married (secondly) Jacob Williams (died 1725). Her will proved December 6, 1736.
2. Zacharias: born circa 1663, New Amstel, Delaware, died 1711, Saint Mary's City, Maryland. married Martha Devine. His will was proved April 4, 1712, St. Marys County, Maryland.
3. Thomas: born circa 1665, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1710, Prince Georges County, Maryland.
4. Gerrit: born circa 1667, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died July 9, 1752, St. Marys County, Maryland.
5. Anne: born circa 1678, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1727. married William Bladen.
6. Mary Maria: born circa 1680, died 1709. married Martin Kirk.
7. Joseph: born 1682, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1720. married pre-April 9, 1715, Mary Neale-Egerton (born 1683), daughter of James Neale and Elizabeth Calvert, granddaughter of Lord Baltimore. Mary remarried to --- Denton.
8. Charles: born circa 1684, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died pre-1713.
9. Dorothy: born circa 1686, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1728.
10. Eleanor: born circa 1688, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1723. married James King Carroll.
11. Sarah: born circa 1690, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died pre-1712. married Gerard Slye.
12. Theresa: born circa 1692, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1753. married (firstly) John Parke. married (secondly) Robert Ford.∼Gerret Vanswearingen was born in 1636, in Reensterdwan (or Beemsterdam), Holland. When he was about twenty years old, the Dutch government appointed Gerret "supercargo" on the "Prince Maurice" which was to go to New Amstel, DE (now New Castle) in support of the Dutch colonist there. The ship sailed on 25 December 1656, but was severely damaged by storms near the end of the journey. The 180 passengers went ashore at Long Island on March 8, 1657.
Gerret married Barbarah de Barrette in 1659 at New Amstel. Shortly after their marriage, Garret and Barbarah returned to Holland where Gerret served as one of the "counsell and Comissary Generall for the City of Amsterdam.
Garret and his wife returned to New Amstel around 1661, where he served as clerk, and later served as sheriff.
Issue of Gerret and Barbarah:
Elizabeth Van Swearingen, born 1661, New Amstel, DE - Zacharias Van Swearingen, born 1662, New Amstel, DE; - Thomas Van Swearingen, born 1665, probably in Talbot Co; - Garrot Van Swearingen
In 1670, Barbarah de Barrette died at St. Mary's and six years later, Gerret married Mary Smith.
Garret Vanswearingen died at St. Mary's in 1698 and was buried with Catholic rites in accordance with his will. Mary Smith died in 1713. Garret was Catholic, but his descendants were of the Prostestant faith.
Garret's son, Thomas Vanswearingen , dropped "Van" from his last name - which started the name Swearingen.
Gerrit was married (firstly) on March 1, 1659/60, at New Amstel, New Netherland (New Castle, Delaware), to Barbarah De Barrette (born in 1639, at Valenciennes, France, died in 1670, at Saint Mary's City, Maryland). Barbarah was from an area in northern France called the Walloon section of the old Seventeen United Netherlands. She was a Huguenot, and she may have had a brother named Isaac.
Gerrit was married (secondly) in October 1676, in St. Mary's County, Maryland, to Mary Smith (born in 1660, died circa August 1713, in St. Marys County, Maryland), the daughter of Hugh Smith. Mary was from St. Marys County. She and Garrett signed their ante nuptial agreement October 5, 1676. Mary wrote her will February 17, 1712, and it was proved September 5, 1713.
Maryland Archives records (volumes II, V, VI, VII, VIII, XIII, XV, XVII, XIX) and Documents to the Colonial History of New York (volumes II, III, XII) frequently mention Gerrit. His forename is mostly found in early records spelled Gerrit.
When the Dutch West India Company sent the ship, "du Prince Maurits," to the new world the known to be well-educated Gerrit was appointed as Super-Cargo of the vessel (an officer of a merchant ship whose duty is to manage the commercial concerns of the voyage). The Prince Maurice sailed from the port of Amsterdam, Holland December 21, 1656, carrying supplies to the Dutch colony of New Amstel, located on the Delaware River. On the night of March 8, 1657 the ship grounded off Fire Island, near the coast of Long Island (New York). The crew and passengers got to shore the next day. They were without fire for two days in freezing weather. On the third day friendly Indians who were employed as messengers by the Dutch West India Company came by and carried word to Governor Peter Stuyvesant at New Amsterdam. Stuyvesant arrived in a sloop, taking everyone to New Amsterdam, where they remained several weeks. Part of the cargo was salvaged before the ship broke-up on the rocks. At New Amsterdam another ship, named "Beaver," was chartered, and those of the Prince Maurice sailed from there on April 16, 1657. They arrived at "South River" (Delaware River) settlement on April 21, 1657, where they landed and took possession of the Fort on April 25, 1657, and established the town of New Amstel (now called New Castle).
On May 28, 1657 Gerrit was a Councilman and was recommended for the office of Commissary-General for the City of New Amsterdam. On November 26, 1659 he was appointed Sheriff, and in December 1659 he was appointed a Councilor at New Amstel under the Governor (Director-General) of New Netherland, Peter Stuyvesant.
On August 30, 1660 permission was granted to Gerrit and his wife to return to Holland, where they remained about one year, handling the interests of the colony. On August 27, 1661 the City of New Amstel having determined to continue as a colony, Gerrit was again appointed Councilor. He was a Commissioner to Holland from New Amstel for 1661-1662. He was called "Honorable President" in a letter from Councilman William Beekman to Peter Stuyvesant in 1663. He was also active in cultivating some low lands, a duck pond, and in trade goods.
In 1664 Gerrit (as High Sheriff), Delaware Colonial Governor de Henoysa, and New Amstel Town Clerk Alrichs comprised the ruling body of the Delaware Colony. Unbeknownst to them, England had made a deal with the Dutch, swapping a large tract of land located on the northeast coast of South America (Dutch Guiana - Surinam) in exchange for the Dutch Colonies in North America. When an English warship sailed up the Delaware River and demanded the colony be turned over to them, the ruling body retired to the fort and opened fire on the English vessel. The English landed a large force, which captured the town and demanded the surrender of the fort. Unable to realistically defend themselves they surrendered. The fort, town of New Amstel, and the surrounding country was brought under the rule of the Englishman Sir William Carr. In a document of protest Gerrit wrote that Sir Robert Carr confiscated 100 sheep, 30-40 horses 50-60 cows and oxen, 60-70 Negro slaves from the inhabitants of New Amstel, as well as the estates and most of the personal property of the Governor and Gerrit. Gerrit got away with only 1 Negro and some household items. He was permitted to sell some of his furniture. Carr then banished the three Dutch officials.
Gerrit was understandably agitated and renounced his allegiance to the Dutch,
Declared his allegiance to the English, dropped the Van from his surname, accommodated their spelling and pronunciations by Anglicizing it by adding an ‘a,’ changed the spelling of his forename to Garrett and moved his family to Saint Mary's City, St. Marys County, Maryland. This was the first settlement and capital of Maryland. Garrett petitioned Lord Baltimore, who had welcomed them, for naturalization as English subjects, which was granted by act of the General Assembly on May 8, 1669. This was an important event since only English subjects could own land. Garrett became active in town and government affairs. In the first charter granted Saint Mary's City in 1668 Cecil Calvert, second Lord Baltimore, appointed Garrett one of the first four Aldermen (law maker) of the city. In the charter of 1671, granted by Governor Charles Calvert, the positions of mayor, common council and a board of 4 aldermen were created. He was an Alderman for the county for 1684-1685 and 1688.
The aldermen and mayor were each granted one-acre lots, lying adjacent to each other, along the riverbank. Saint Mary's City comprised one square mile and 13 dwellings (each on a one acre lot). The four aldermen lived along a dirt road known as Aldermanbury Street. This street was built as a road leading from Leonard Calvert's house (the site of the Assembly Council, Provincial Court and his private home) to the landing dock at the St. Marys River. It ran to the village crossroads in 1676 and was the main street of town by 1680.
In 1670/2 Garrett built a fine home on his lot on the banks of the St. Marys River. By 1690 his home had grown to a large extended rambling building. The family occupied this home until 1730. In June 1674 he was paid 800 pounds of tobacco for building the city's stocks and whipping post. The meetings of the Upper House of the Maryland Assembly were held in Garrett's tavern house in Saint Mary's City from 1680 to 1692.
On May 4, 1686, and again May 12, 1687 he was appointed High Sheriff of St. Marys County. On March 12, 1687 he was appointed to the Maryland Council as one of the three Commissioners constituting a special court trying the case of a vessel and it's cargo of goods and merchandise accused of transgressing "His Majesty's" shipping and navigation laws.
Garrett took part in the court disputes between colonial governors in 1681, 1692 and 1693. He again was a member of the Council in 1694. He owned property in both Talbot and St. Marys Counties. He owned 50 acres of land in St. Marys County known as "Sweringen's Point," and a 1500-acre plantation located south of Saint Mary’s City named St. Elizabeth’s Manor. He also owned Smith's Town House, used as the first state house. It burned down in 1677 and Garrett rebuilt it of brick. It is still standing, as a national historic landmark.
Garrett wrote his will March 25, 1698, it was proved on October 25, 1698, and filed February 4, 1699. According to his wishes he was to be buried in consecrated ground with the full rites of the Catholic Church.
In 1975 archaeologists began searching for the corners of his home. This was done in order to locate Aldermanbury Street, the street being the key to the entire layout of old Saint Mary's City. Locating the street would then aid in locating the known original buildings. In 1975 they uncovered the original building. In 1977 they located a little out building. In 1979 they located a cellar, more of the out building and a pigpen. Excavating Garrett's house yielded a wealth of exotic pottery, including the only complete ceramic vessel ever discovered at St. Mary's; a type indicating Garrett was very wealthy, among the top 5 percent, and held a high social status.
Children:
1. Elizabeth: born circa 1661, New Amstel, Delaware, died 1736, St. Marys County, Maryland. married (firstly) John Evans (died 1710). married (secondly) Jacob Williams (died 1725). Her will proved December 6, 1736.
2. Zacharias: born circa 1663, New Amstel, Delaware, died 1711, Saint Mary's City, Maryland. married Martha Devine. His will was proved April 4, 1712, St. Marys County, Maryland.
3. Thomas: born circa 1665, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1710, Prince Georges County, Maryland.
4. Gerrit: born circa 1667, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died July 9, 1752, St. Marys County, Maryland.
5. Anne: born circa 1678, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1727. married William Bladen.
6. Mary Maria: born circa 1680, died 1709. married Martin Kirk.
7. Joseph: born 1682, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1720. married pre-April 9, 1715, Mary Neale-Egerton (born 1683), daughter of James Neale and Elizabeth Calvert, granddaughter of Lord Baltimore. Mary remarried to --- Denton.
8. Charles: born circa 1684, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died pre-1713.
9. Dorothy: born circa 1686, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1728.
10. Eleanor: born circa 1688, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1723. married James King Carroll.
11. Sarah: born circa 1690, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died pre-1712. married Gerard Slye.
12. Theresa: born circa 1692, Saint Mary's City, Maryland, died 1753. married (firstly) John Parke. married (secondly) Robert Ford.∼Gerret Vanswearingen was born in 1636, in Reensterdwan (or Beemsterdam), Holland. When he was about twenty years old, the Dutch government appointed Gerret "supercargo" on the "Prince Maurice" which was to go to New Amstel, DE (now New Castle) in support of the Dutch colonist there. The ship sailed on 25 December 1656, but was severely damaged by storms near the end of the journey. The 180 passengers went ashore at Long Island on March 8, 1657.
Gerret married Barbarah de Barrette in 1659 at New Amstel. Shortly after their marriage, Garret and Barbarah returned to Holland where Gerret served as one of the "counsell and Comissary Generall for the City of Amsterdam.
Garret and his wife returned to New Amstel around 1661, where he served as clerk, and later served as sheriff.
Issue of Gerret and Barbarah:
Elizabeth Van Swearingen, born 1661, New Amstel, DE - Zacharias Van Swearingen, born 1662, New Amstel, DE; - Thomas Van Swearingen, born 1665, probably in Talbot Co; - Garrot Van Swearingen
In 1670, Barbarah de Barrette died at St. Mary's and six years later, Gerret married Mary Smith.
Garret Vanswearingen died at St. Mary's in 1698 and was buried with Catholic rites in accordance with his will. Mary Smith died in 1713. Garret was Catholic, but his descendants were of the Prostestant faith.
Garret's son, Thomas Vanswearingen , dropped "Van" from his last name - which started the name Swearingen.
Bio by: Allan Wenzel
Inscription
Died BCA, not USA.
(BCA is British Colonial America)
