see www.nysm.nysed.gov ; born 25-Sep-1720, died Aug-1788 at 67 years of age; bp. First Dutch Reformed Church, Albany, New York; Gysbert prospered in business, being counted among the wealthiest Albanians during the 1760s. In 1766, he stood with his neighbors in opposition to the Stamp Act. However, ten years later, this cautious merchant was identified by the same neighbors as opposed to the American cause, refused to sign the non Importation association, and was ordered disarmed. In 1778, he refused to swear allegiance to the United States and was threatened with deport and banishment to the British. With much to lose, Fonda then took the oath! those reservations aside, Gysbert Fonda survived the war and even was granted a bounty right in conjunction with the Albany regiment of the county militia.
Sources and references
- www.nysm.nysed.gov