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Interpreting the Evidence

Letters from Jeremias van Rensselaer to Oloff Stevensen Van Cortlandt, 1665/1666

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About this Activity

  • 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

  • Primary Source Types:

    Written Document

  • Regions:

    New York State

  • Creator:

    NYS Archives Partnership Trust Education Team

  1. Load Letters from Jeremias van Rensselaer to Oloff Stevensen Van Cortlandt, 1665/1666 in Main Image Viewer

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Document Description
Letters from Jeremias van Rensselaer to Oloff Stevensen Van Cortlandt, November 23/ Dec 3, 1665; January 1/11, 1666.
Historical Context
In 17th century New Netherlands, barber-surgeons practiced rudimentary forms of medicine that had developed throughout 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.
 
Essential Question
How did surgeons contribute to life in a Dutch colony?
 
Check for Understanding
How did Jermemias van Rensselaer feel about the surgeon mentioned in the letter?
RETURN TO RESULTS