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Interpreting the Evidence

Indenture of Apprenticeship to Learn the Art of Surgery, March 13th/23rd, 1665

  • Documents in this Activity:
  • Historical Eras:

    Colonial America (1630s - 1760)

  • Thinking Skill:

    Historical Analysis & Interpretation

  • Grade Level:

    Upper Elementary
    Middle School
    High School
    College University

  • Topics:

    Colonial America
    Community
    Dutch
    Industry

  • Primary Source Types:

    Written Document

  • Regions:

    New York State

  • Creator:

    NYS Archives Partnership Trust Education Team

  1. Load Indenture of Apprenticeship to Learn the Art of Surgery, March 13th/23rd, 1665 in Main Image Viewer
  2. Load Indenture of Apprenticeship to Learn the Art of Surgery, March 13th/23rd, 1665 in Main Image Viewer

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Document Description
Indenture of apprenticeship of Gysbert Schuyler to Cornelis Van Ddyck to learn the art of surgury, 13th/23rd, 1665.
Historical Context
In 17th century New Netherlands, barber-surgeons practiced rudimentary forms of medicine that had developed throughout the medieval times. The duties of a surgeon included simple tasks like cutting hair, shaving beards and removing lice. The more complex services included extracting teeth, setting bones, and repairing injuries. Surgeons spent a great deal of time leeching and lancing in an effort to prevent or fight infection.
Surgeons in the 17th century used rudimentary techniques to keep people alive in the face of unknown diseases and life-threatening injuries. People sought the help of surgeons for relief of infections, growths, and injuries. Without the presence of medical schools, future surgeons were trained through apprenticeships which began in their early teen years.
 
Essential Question
How did surgeons contribute to life in a Dutch colony?
 
Check for Understanding
How did this document benefit Gysbert Schuyler, Cornelis Van Dyke, and the colony?